CIM Graduate
Jenna (Thomas) Barbe
School: Middle Tennessee State University
Graduation Date: 2007
Employer: R.J. Griffin & Company
“There are so many unique career paths a CIM graduate can choose. The program stresses personal development, creativity, and dispute resolution. These are invaluable assets any professional possesses.”
What school did you graduate from and in which year?
I graduated Summa Cum Laude from MTSU in 2007 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Concrete Industry Management and a minor in Business Administration.
What is your current position and responsibilities at R.J. Griffin & Company?
I am an assistant project manager with the RJ Griffin Nashville Division specializing in healthcare construction. My job responsibilities include: assisting preconstruction with budget and buyout, working with design team, client, and facility staff ensuring goals and priorities are achieved, vendor coordination, managing subcontractors, scheduling, cost control, quality assurance, and safety. My previous jobs included a 16,000-square-foot HCA imaging and diagnostics facility in Lebanon, TN, a 282,358-square-foot HCA Greenfield 126-bed hospital in Fredericksburg, VA, and my most recent assignment is a 134,000-square-foot cancer center in Glenwood Springs, CO.
Why did you choose this position and this company?
I started interning with RJ Griffin & Company in 2006 and continued until graduation. I enjoy each project’s diversity and the meticulous coordination required to make every job a success. The company was not afraid to put me in front of the client with little experience and gave me the opportunity to live onsite for a $96 million hospital project in Greenfield. These opportunities are rare and their faith in my abilities as a project manager made my decision to join the RJ Griffin team an easy one!
How has the CIM program prepared you for your current job responsibilities?
The technical information helps me speak the construction language and the business principles make me an effective manager.
Why did you choose the CIM program?
Originally, my major was marketing until I realized prospective careers paths were vague and saturated. After speaking with the CIM staff, I enrolled in CIM 1010 ‘Introduction to the Concrete Industry.’ The class explained basic principles and possible career paths, all of which were unique and intriguing.
What classes did you enjoy the most?
Senior lab and Capstone were my favorite classes.
What advice would you give to current CIM students?
There are so many unique career paths a CIM graduate can choose. The program stresses personal development, creativity, and dispute resolution. These are invaluable assets any professional possesses. Always think outside the box and you will grow regardless of economic climate.