JE Dunn Construction - Work-Based Learning Experience

  • Posted January 7, 2025
Photo of Ella sitting at her desk at the JE Dunn office

By: Ella Sickler 
Dickinson High School Senior

My Work-Based Learning (WBL) placement was at JE Dunn Construction, a construction management company based out of Kansas with a strong presence in Dickinson and projects throughout the country. From day one, I found the team in Dickinson to be intelligent, welcoming, and supportive. Their mentorship made my internship experience enjoyable and enriching. 

 As an intern at JE Dunn, I had the opportunity to learn about various aspects of construction management and contribute to diverse tasks. However, my central focus was completing Weekly Progress Reports for different projects. The reports include photos and updates, providing the owner, construction management team, architects, and even the public with insights into the project’s progress. To create these reports, I visited the construction site, where the Superintendent would walk me through the progress and upcoming tasks. Then, I would put together the report at the office and send it to the right people. This process taught me a lot about the technical details of a project as well as the coordination of people to make it come to life.  

One particularly exciting project I am currently working on is preparing a presentation for the school board about the Roosevelt Elementary addition. This assignment has allowed me to dive deeply into the entire construction process of a project, from Pre-Construction to Closeout. Applying my newly acquired knowledge to create a presentation is proving to be both challenging and rewarding. Although I have yet to present it, I am looking forward to the experience. 

Participating in the WBL program has been an amazing experience. I have learned more about a field that I am interested in through real-world exposure while also learning about my own preferences and strengths. For example, I learned that I enjoy working with others and taking on responsibilities that require creativity and attention to detail.  

I enjoyed my WBL experience and learned a lot from it. I would highly recommend participating if you are considering it. It is a great opportunity to gain valuable technical knowledge and gauge your own preferences and strengths. We’re fortunate to have such an amazing community of businesses willing to invest in the next generation.