building experience
thoughts from ashley
Our 2025 Summer Interns have nearly completed their internships. For the young men and women who took advantage of these valuable opportunities, they will now blend the knowledge they've gained 'in the field' to the curriculum they'll experience in the classroom as they return to their respective Universities in pursuit of higher education. For some, these experiences often turn into long-term careers with Ackerman-Estvold!
A member of our Williston, North Dakota team, Ashley Machipisa, shares his first-year experience as a Construction Specialist Intern, working along with our Civil Engineers, Senior Construction Specialist, and a host of consultants on a critical road improvement project in Williams County, North Dakota.
hit the ground running
"From day 1, it was all systems go. We were overseeing an 18-mile road construction project in Williams County, ND. Under the mentorship and training of Austin Alexander, PE and Chris Hageman (Lead Construction Specialist), I was initially tasked with inspecting fencing removals and installations, as well as updating temporary erosion control quantities."
expanded responsibilities
"Over time my responsibilities expanded to culvert installations and earthworks. I was able to not only see, but heavily contribute to critical operations, making sure they were done safely and according to NDDOT standards."
expanding skills
"This internship fulfilled my objectives to receive first-hand experience, improve problem solving skills, and sharpen soft skills like speaking to contractors and other third parties."
