It has been an amazing ride at UJAMAA!
Contrary to popular belief, the construction field is way beyond just bricks and mortar. UJAMAA Construction has shown me that the industry is vibrant and accepting of people from all backgrounds. It highlights how different abilities and viewpoints can make a project successful. More than just building from the ground up, it’s about bettering the community through strong relationships and collaboration. The industry is at the cutting edge of sustainability, innovation, and technology for the betterment of the community.
Transitioning from Tech to Construction
Getting the opportunity to work in the construction industry after having spent much of my career in tech was like jumping into a bright, foreign ocean. However, my internship at UJAMAA Construction has been truly thrilling. At first, the adjustment felt like picking up a new language. Site visits, plans, and construction and engineering terminologies were initially foreign to me. But the encouraging and kind atmosphere at UJAMAA soon turned what I thought would be intimidating into a rewarding experience.
Working with professionals, gaining insights into project management and cost control processes, and learning about the long chain of activities that lead up until a project groundbreaking and beyond have been instrumental in my professional growth. Being willing to ask questions and get guidance from people here has also been crucial to my development.
Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Austion HOPE Center Project
I had the incredible opportunity to experience the groundbreaking ceremony for the Austion HOPE Center project. Not only did I witness the kick-off, but I also participated in a walkthrough of the soon-to-be construction site with our CEO and the project manager! I attended a keynote delivered by Mayor Brandon Johnson, emphasizing the importance of incorporating sustainability into our city and the immense impact the project would have on the community.
As the ceremonial shovels broke ground, the wave of energy that went through the crowd, solidifying the project’s starting point and the potential to transform Chicago, was even more amazing. The groundbreaking ceremony showed the collaboration needed to bring a vision to life and offered a glimpse into the future of sustainable urban living. I’m honored to have been part of the moment and eagerly await seeing the Austin HOPE Center rise from the ground, brick by amazing brick.
Site Walkthroughs: Little Angels and Northwestern Medicine Bronzeville Projects
My first site walkthrough was a hard-hat and safety vest tour of the ongoing construction for the Little Angels project in Englewood, followed by the Northwestern Medicine Bronzeville construction site. The walkthrough of each jobsite was an eye-opening experience that went beyond just the architecture being built.
One thing that stood out for me were the guides, UJAMAA Superintendents Malik Harmon and Jordan Robinson, explaining the meticulous planning and coordination that goes into building these structures. Witnessing the transformation firsthand after viewing the architectural plans of what will soon be a flourishing urban learning center for children in Englewood (Little Angels project) and an advanced outpatient care center (NM Bronzeville) that will serve over 50,000 community members a year was captivating.
It solidified the power of thoughtful urban design to revitalize cities and reconnect communities with urban living. Sustainability was clearly at the forefront of every design decision. With all this and more, I realized there is much more to construction than concrete works of art; it unites people, builds dreams, and makes visions a reality.
UJAMAA’s Commitment to Relationships and Diversity
UJAMAA’s emphasis on building strong relationships with clients, trade partners, and the community has been particularly inspiring. It shows the company’s dedication to fostering a positive impact in the community, creating jobs and opportunities, as well as building structures. I have learned here that anybody can find a place to thrive at UJAMAA because of its expanding focus on diversity and changing the narrative of construction. From project managers and experienced carpenters to project engineers and accountants, everyone has a role to play.
Conclusion: Inspired by the Journey
I am thankful to UJAMAA for this opportunity, and I am extremely inspired by my experience here. The skills and insights gained during my internship will undoubtedly shape my future endeavors in the construction industry. UJAMAA Construction has not only built structures but has also built my confidence and aspirations.
