Building Group Business Development & Construction Material Sales Intern
Western Michigan University, Sales & Marketing, Class of 2027
Meet Sam Swoyer, a Sales and Marketing major at Western Michigan University and a summer intern with O&G’s Building Division, Business Development, and Construction Material Sales teams. With his sights set on graduating in 2027, Sam is using this internship to gain real-world experience, sharpen his skills, and explore the potential of a career in construction sales.
Sam’s role has taken him deep into the early stages of project development, researching potential construction projects, identifying sales opportunities, and helping track which jobs are (or aren’t) using O&G materials like concrete. “I’ve been focused on finding upcoming projects and understanding why we may or may not be involved,” Sam says. “I’ve even researched school committees and local connections for projects that are going out to bid to help the team be better prepared.” He’s also had the chance to witness sales in action and learn how lasting relationships are built with clients and contractors.
One of the most surprising things Sam has discovered at O&G is how close-knit the company is across all divisions. “I’ve worked jobs where not everyone got along, but the minute I arrived here, I saw how every division works like a family—willing to support and defend each other like their lives depend on it. It was a great surprise.”
When it comes to considering a future in construction sales, Sam says two people in particular helped shape that decision: Corey Morin and Bradley Tkacz. “When I started this internship, I was really nervous—I didn’t know what to expect,” he shared. “But Corey and Brad showed up to work every day with such a positive attitude that it made the job seem exciting and appealing.” Sam said he saw a lot of himself in them—both in their personalities and their work styles—and that their patience and willingness to mentor him made a lasting impression. “They didn’t have to take me on, but they chose to spend their time training me and helping me explore if this career path was right for me. That meant a lot, and it made me think this might be something I could truly succeed in.”
He also credits the concrete dispatch team at Bogue Road in Torrington, along with Sue Duffy, for setting the tone early in his internship. “Before the program even officially started, I was introduced to the dispatch team—and from the moment I walked in, they treated me like I’d already been part of the team for years,” he said. Their warm welcome helped ease his nerves, and their patience as he learned the ropes gave him the confidence to dive into the work. “That kind of environment, where people are happy to help you and want to see you succeed, makes all the difference. I couldn’t have asked for a better start.”
This internship has given Sam more than just practical experience—it’s given him confidence in his future. “Growing up, I was always afraid of the unknown—where I’d go to college, if I’d make it, if I had a future. This internship helped ease that fear. It showed me that I can make it in the real world. I just have to work hard.”
O&G’s century-long history also played a big role in Sam’s decision to apply. “You don’t see a lot of 100-year-old companies around anymore. It told me there had to be a wealth of opportunity here—and there absolutely was.”
His advice to future interns? “Be proud of how far you’ve come. Go in with an open mind and be like a sponge—absorb everything. This isn’t just a construction company, it’s a place full of opportunity. You might discover a whole new path for yourself. O&G saw something in you—work hard and prove them right.”
Outside of work, Sam is a proud member of Phi Sigma Kappa at Western Michigan, where he maintains a 3.2 GPA. He’s also a passionate Detroit sports fan, loves to golf, plays hockey when he can, and enjoys hitting the slopes in the winter.
Sam’s combination of drive, curiosity, and heart has made him a great addition to the team—and we can’t wait to see where his journey takes him next.
