Internships give you the opportunity to gain valuable experiences and professional connections before your career has even started. This can set you up for success in your career.
Tyler Buchanan’s career journey is a clear example of how beneficial internships can be. In this blog, we delve into the world of corporate scheduling, exploring the skills, experiences, and insights that propelled Tyler from intern to corporate scheduler. Whether you’re a young student considering construction as a first career or thinking about changing your career path, join us as we follow Tyler’s journey from intern to corporate scheduler.
Tyler Buchanan began his career at Ross Group as an intern in 2012, assisting on projects at Fort Sill and Altus AFB. He shadowed project teams, documented meeting minutes, and supported superintendents with various tasks.
During his internship, Tyler acquired essential skills such as running meetings, interacting with clients and subcontractors, and familiarizing himself with project schedules and documents. His first significant project was Dorm 333 Remodel at Altus AFB, where he worked closely with David Ross, one of Ross Group’s superintendents with 44 years of experience. Despite facing challenges, particularly with the unforeseen structural conditions of the building and design-build nature of the project, Tyler learned to interact with architects and engineers and navigate structural issues during design and construction.
After his internship, Tyler was hired full-time as a Project Engineer, starting as a Field Engineer on the Altus AFB project. He was promoted to Assistant Project Manager (APM) while working on various project sites with superintendents and overseeing projects from the field.
Tyler’s career progressed as he became a Superintendent, working on the Earl Cabell Federal Building for domestic water upgrades. He then returned to Altus AFB in a hybrid role as APM and Assistant Superintendent, and Assistant Quality Control Manager for the Altus AFB tail dock extension. Later, he moved back to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma as an APM, managing projects for Blue Cross Blue Shield and others projects in south Texas and Missouri.
Tyler then entered the role of scheduler and reinvented the corporate scheduler role, focusing on maintaining project schedules, assisting project management teams, and helping Superintendents with sequencing. His experience as a Superintendent helped him effectively plan and execute project schedules.
When Tyler took the position of corporate scheduler, he understood that an effective schedule ensures that projects are completed efficiently, generating more revenue and opportunities for the company. Tyler’s motto is “time equals money” and he works with teams in pushing schedules to their completion.
Reflecting on his early career, Tyler initially pursued a degree in Architectural Engineering at OSU but quickly realized his passion for being in the field and seeing buildings go up. He switched to a Construction Management degree, which set the foundation for his career. As corporate scheduler his role allows him to still visit all the active jobsites and stay connected with each of the projects.
Outside of work, Tyler enjoys spending time with his family, visiting their farm, spending summers at the lake, and cheering for OSU during football season.
Tyler Buchanan’s journey from intern to corporate scheduler is a testament to the value of adaptability, continuous learning, and seizing opportunities. For those considering a career in construction or a career change within the industry, Tyler advises, “Don’t be afraid of the change. When I made these role changes, I went into them hesitantly. I worried I might not know what I need to know. But, if you go in and ask questions, while surrounded with quality teammates you can adapt and rise to the occasion.”
By pursuing a construction internship, you gain invaluable skills and experiences that can significantly enhance your career and propel your professional career.
If you are interested in learning more about internship opportunities at Ross Group, you can reach out to Shea Light at HR@withrossgroup.com.
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