CIM Graduate
Kendel Kitchen
School: Middle Tennessee State University
Graduation Date: December 2012
Employer: Kiewit Corporation
“My advice is to get involved as much as you can in the program. My other advice once you graduate is come in with an open mindset to the industry with a “boots on the ground” mentality.”
What school did you graduate from and in which year?
I graduated from Middle Tennessee State University in December of 2012.
What is your current position and responsibilities at Kiewit Corporation?
I currently work in Nashville, TN on a $62-million dollar TDOT Accelerated Bridge Construction project called The Fast Fix 8 Bridges as a Structures Field Engineer. My responsibilities include planning daily operations, tracking quantities, procurement of materials, and managing daily field and other operations and reflecting our company’s safety vision that “Nobody Gets Hurt.”
Why did you choose this position and this company?
I chose this position because it was a great starting platform for my career, filled with abundant opportunities for career advancement. Kiewit was the only company that stood out over other companies with its core values of people, integrity, excellence, and Stewardship.
How has the CIM program prepared you for your current job responsibilities?
The program did a great job preparing me for both the construction and business side of our industry. All of the hands-on experience you gain from the program is a benefit when you graduate. The contacts you make with fellow students and faculty is a big help. Graduating from the program with numerous contacts you can call for industry advice is huge in our line of business.
Why did you choose the CIM program?
I chose the CIM program because of its faculty and reputation as a close-knit program. With my background in construction, it felt like a great fit.
What classes did you enjoy the most? The least?
The classes I enjoyed the most were definitely all of the CIM classes. The one I least enjoyed was chemistry.
What advice would you give to current CIM students?
My advice is to get involved as much as you can in the program. My other advice once you graduate is come in with an open mindset to the industry with a “boots on the ground” mentality.