Kymberly Reeder, a junior majoring in architectural engineering with a minor in engineering positive and intentional change (EPIC), has been selected as the Outstanding Fall 2023 Co-op Student. While participating in co-op, commonly referred to as cooperative education, students are provided the opportunity to gain real work experience in their field of interest while also pursuing their degree. During her co-op last semester, Reeder worked in Roanoke, Virginia, at the Springs Tower for Carilion Clinic with Robins & Morton, a privately held construction firm. She was able to intern for Dan Boggs, a field engineer for the company.
“The team I was able to work with was a younger group, which made it easier to connect and communicate early on. I tracked the installation and production of drywall, ceiling grid, wall protection, casework and millwork. I was able to present dashboard reports in various meetings. I implemented a new organization and system for them to be able to track the delivery, installation and electrical prep necessary for the door frames. I was given an amazing opportunity to see what project management will be like through the scheduling process to oversee the work completed by the subcontractors,” Reeder said.
Reeder plans to pursue a career that involves creating sustainable and environmentally friendly buildings for future generations. She shares that the opportunity to work with Robins & Morton showed her that there are more ways to seek that path than she realized. She will also return to co-op with Robins & Morton this summer.
“This award means a lot to me,” Reeder said. “It shows that I could not have done it without people encouraging me from home, campus and especially the team I was able to work with in Virginia. I am looking forward to refocusing my mind on my education while waiting for my next co-op term with Robins & Morton.”
For more information about cooperative education within the College of Engineering and how to apply, click here: https://coop.sa.ua.edu/cooperative-education/