insights Atkins is Molding Young Minds through the Developing Engineers Explorers Program (DEEP)

15 October 2018

Every year, our Project Controls group based out of the Broward County Public Schools client office in Ft. Lauderdale, FL hosted interns from Blanche Ely High School and Stranahan High School with career interests in architecture, construction, and engineering-related industries. The Developing Engineering Explorers Program (DEEP) sponsored by the SMART Bond Program with Broward County Public Schools, one of largest clients who we’ve worked with for many years.

Dozens of students apply for the opportunity to intern with organizations partnering with the school board. The application includes interview questions about why they want this opportunity and how it will positively impact their future goals. This summer, the school board selected 10 students and assigned them to work with Atkins for the scheduling and cost estimation portion of the project and with CBRE|Heery to understand the construction side. During the 150 hour internship, students gained real-world, hands-on experience including the plan review process, estimating, scheduling and overall program coordination.

On September 25th, the DEEP students attended the School Board of Broward County to give a special presentation and highlight their experience with our company. Atkins was presented with a certificate of appreciation for our involvement in the program. One of our interns, provided feedback on her internship experience and praise towards her Atkins mentor, George Suarez, MSCM, PSP, Projects Scheduler.

This program has created an amazing opportunity to connect some amazing and talented individuals and we look forward to next summer.