CIM Graduate
Clay Karsner
School: Middle Tennessee State University
Graduation Date: Class of 2023
Employer: Gray Construction
“CIM does an outstanding job putting students in touch with alumni and leaders in our industry so they can converse and gain knowledge from these experts. That also makes internship chances available, gives you a taste of the industry and aids in guiding you in the direction that is best for you. ”
What is your current position and responsibilities at Gray Construction?
I am a field engineer with Gray Construction. I assist in layout of building items, procurement of construction materials and scheduling of construction activities. In addition to my responsibilities auditing quality of work, I also review, understand, assimilate and log shop drawings and submittals.
Why did you choose this position and this company?
I count myself lucky to have had three internships with Gray. I was given a variety of responsibilities during those internships, which allowed me to develop my skill sets. The family-owned nature of Gray’s firm is immediately reflected in the atmosphere at work. While working as an intern, I formed several wonderful ties with the teams at my site. During my time as an intern, I immediately started to see where I fit into our industry.
How has the CIM program prepared you for your current job responsibilities?
The CIM program more than prepared me for my current job responsibilities. During my time on campus, my classes provided hands-on experience for many of the things that I am working on daily. Plan reading, scheduling and construction methods were some of the many classes that I apply to my daily work responsibilities. CIM provided many opportunities to participate in competitions that forced me to think differently about problems that might come up on the jobsite.
Why did you choose the CIM program?
I grew up around the construction industry and have always desired to take part in the creation of new projects; CIM provided me with the ideal opportunity to do so. The curriculum provides an excellent opportunity to establish yourself in the concrete/construction industry as well as build strong relationships. Additionally, CIM does an outstanding job putting students in touch with alumni and leaders in our industry so they can converse and gain knowledge from these experts. That also makes internship chances available, gives you a taste of the industry and aids in guiding you in the direction that is best for you.
What advice would you give to current CIM students?
The best piece of advice I can offer to CIM students is to get as involved as you can within the program. During my four years in the program, I was able to get involved with the ACI student chapter, go on many student trips and participate in national competitions. These prepared me for the concrete industry and set me up with many connections in different aspects of our industry.