Building Group Intern – Manchester Public Library
University of Connecticut, Civil Engineering & Applied Mathematics Major, Class of 2027
For William Turgeon, a summer internship with O&G has been more than just a glimpse into the construction industry—it’s been a hands-on education in communication, coordination, and career discovery.
Working alongside the project engineer and project manager at the Manchester Public Library job site, William has been fully immersed in the inner workings of construction management. His day-to-day includes uploading documents into Aconex and reviewing submittals to help keep the project on track. What excites him most is seeing the structure take shape just as it was envisioned in the drawings. “It’s inspiring to see everything come together as a result of so much behind-the-scenes coordination,” he says.
William has been particularly struck by how much effort goes into keeping every discipline aligned—from architects and engineers to trade partners. “At first, it was a challenge to know who to turn to for clarification, but I’ve learned that direct collaboration with project managers often leads to quicker resolutions,” he explains. “Understanding how each part of the project connects has made everything more efficient and easier to grasp.”
Throughout his internship, William says the most helpful part of the experience has been the support and guidance of his project team. “Everyone has taken the time to walk me through different aspects of their day-to-day work and involve me in meaningful tasks,” he says. He gives special credit to Safety Manager Quint Kimmel, who regularly shares lessons and challenges from other jobs. “Hearing about how issues arise and get resolved on different projects has broadened my understanding and helped me think more critically about problem-solving in the field.”
As this is his first industry experience, William says the internship has played a big role in shaping his future. “It’s helped me narrow my interests and confirmed that construction is the right path for me,” he says. He’s especially drawn to site work and structural components—the parts of a project where planning turns into visible progress.
Before joining O&G, William was drawn to the company’s rich history and strong presence throughout Connecticut. “What stood out to me was O&G’s ability to manage projects across Building, Heavy Civil, Industrial, and Masonry—all under one organization,” he says. “It’s impressive that they not only handle such a wide scope of work but also maintain their own facilities across the state.” As someone who has lived and studied in Connecticut, William says he admires the lasting impact O&G has had in local communities and is excited to see the company continue expanding into new markets.
His advice for future interns? Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek guidance. “Everyone at O&G is welcoming and willing to help, and asking questions is the best way to grow your understanding,” he says. “You’re treated as a valued member of the team, so take advantage of the opportunity to engage and get involved.” When he’s not working, William can be found mountain biking in the summer or skiing and snowboarding in the winter—always ready for the next adventure, whether on the trails or the job site.
