Applying for internships can be a stressful process. From updating your resume to writing cover letters, it can get a little overwhelming trying to figure out what to include in order to showcase yourself as the best candidate for the position—especially when you’re in a technical field like construction engineering.
But thankfully, we have a few tips that will help you put your best foot forward when applying for internships. Read on to learn five things you should add to your construction engineering resume to place yourself ahead of the competition.
Relevant Coursework
As a student, your experience with construction may be limited to the classroom—but that doesn’t mean you haven’t learned a number of relevant skills that you could use during an internship.
Be sure to highlight the courses you are taking or have taken that reflect processes, skills, or knowledge the internship may require. Listing relevant coursework shows potential employers that while you do not yet have direct experience working in construction, you still have the skills and knowledge necessary for the job.
Technical Skills
Having the right skill set is key in the construction industry. If you have any technical skills—such as proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, or other software commonly used in the industry—include them in your resume, especially if they are specifically mentioned in the internship listing.
Listing these technical skills can show your competency and familiarity with specific software, tools, and technologies. Additionally, technical skills can demonstrate your ability to handle complex problems and work collaboratively with other professionals in the industry.
Leadership Experience
Highlight any leadership experience you may have, including leading a team project, being an officer in a student organization, and managing in a previous job. This not only shows employers that you have leadership skills but also brings attention to soft skills such as communication and empathy which may give you an edge over your competition.
Professional Organization Memberships
If you are a member of any engineering student organizations—such as the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWiC) or the Underground Construction Association (UCA)—be sure to include those in your resume.
Belonging to professional organizations or clubs shows that you are involved in the construction engineering field and are actively trying to develop connections and further your knowledge in the field.
Relevant Certifications
Relevant certifications are essential for your resume—even if the position you are applying for does not require them. Certifications demonstrate to your potential employer that you have acquired specific skills and knowledge in the construction engineering field—indicating your dedication to the profession. They can also make you stand out by highlighting your expertise.
Applying for internships doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By taking the time to create a well-crafted and tailored resume, you'll increase your chances of getting noticed and landing the construction engineering internship you've been aspiring to experience!
The world is demanding innovative engineers who have the ability to design and manage projects as well as the skills to manage people.
The Purdue University Construction Engineering and Management program develops versatile engineers by merging high-value education with direct access to industry leaders and successful alumni. The curriculum is 80% construction engineering and 20% management courses, and classes are taught by industry experts who bring their own real-world experiences. Through small class sizes, innovative internships, 100% job placement, and the use of cutting-edge technology, we help turn a passion for engineering and architecture into a career where leadership, design, and oversight influence every aspect of a construction project.
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