CIM Graduate
Daniel Cook
School: Middle Tennessee State University
Graduation Date: May 2011
Employer: Turner Construction Company
“The professors and staff with the MTSU CIM program were always available and offered many chances to gain experience than any other program I had been a part of. It is a quality program and it has definitely helped me fulfill my goal of working for the largest general contractor in the country.”
DANIEL GRADUATED FROM MTSU IN MAY 2011. We asked Daniel a few questions about what he has been up to since his graduation from CIM six years ago.
Daniel, where are you currently working and what are your main job responsibilities?
I am a project engineer with Turner Construction Company. My job is to build the project on paper and ensure all coordination is complete between owners, designers, trade partners, vendors, local authorities and end users throughout the construction process. In a nutshell, I act as a go-between for the owners funding a project and trade partners who put it in place.
Why did you choose this position and this company?
I don’t feel that I chose this position; I feel like the role found me. While at MTSU working on my bachelor’s degree in concrete management, I worked for an equipment rental company and visited many construction projects on a daily basis. Turner’s project in Murfreesboro always stood out to me due to the cleanliness, attention to safety and professionalism on the jobsite. Without trying to sound like I’m recruiting, Turner is the first company I have ever worked for where I feel that I am genuinely supported and encouraged by both my peers and leadership, and I wouldn’t want to work anywhere else.
How has the CIM program prepared you for your current job responsibilities?
I have to focus on many aspects of a project outside of concrete. However, the knowledge and experience I gained while at MTSU gives me an advantage in that area. Also, the extracurricular involvement we experienced while working with the Patrons and industry professionals during school has helped me during my career. We had many ways to reach out to alumni and professionals for assistance, which was a great start toward
building my professional network.
Why did you choose the CIM program?
The CIM program gave me a “launching pad” for where I am today. I knew with CIM I would gain the experience and build a network that would help me get into the construction management field. The professors and staff with the MTSU CIM program were always available and offered many chances to gain experience than any other program I had been a part of. It is a quality program and it has definitely helped me fulfill my goal of working for the largest general contractor in the country.
What advice would you give to current CIM students?
Do more than just go to class. Get involved, join an organization, lead an organization, meet people, exchange information, just talk to people in person or on the phone (without relying on an app)!