Construction Science undergraduate student Dalton Gilliam is spending his summer gaining valuable experience as an intern for Whiting-Turner Contracting Company.
During his internship, Gilliam has been involved in several projects. His biggest task has been assisting in completing the punch list. Gilliam describes the punch list as “a list of non-conforming items that must be completed before final payments.”
Gilliam has gained knowledge in many areas of the construction industry through this internship.
“I have learned a lot about quality craftsmanship in construction during my internship.”
– Dalton Gilliam
Gilliam says that working on punch lists has led to a deeper understanding of owner expectations, subcontracting, and project time constraints.
“Managing this list allowed me to understand architect and owner expectation, management of subcontractor work, and completing tasks on a time crunch”
During his time at Gibbs College of Architecture, Gilliam is most proud of interning all three summers of his college experience.
“This has given me valuable job experience and also given me many contacts which I will use in the future.”
For Gilliam, his favorite part about his program here at GCA is the immense number of internship opportunities open to him. He also values the competition teams supported by the Haskell and Irene Lemon Division of Construction Science.
“I like the way the program sets students up for a successful transition into the work force through career fairs, interaction with industry professionals, and competition teams.”
We asked Gilliam about his experience here at GCA, and he says he was introduced to many basics of construction management, team-work and cooperation skills.
“My experiences while at the College of Architecture have introduced me to the basics of construction management, professional communication, and collaboration.”
For incoming students, Gilliam says that interacting with industry professionals is of the utmost importance.
“Go to all the career fairs and lunch & learns with industry professionals.”
Gilliam also gives advice on the qualities hiring companies are seeking from prospective employees. Specifically, he recommends networking to build an admirable reputation.
“Hiring companies value eagerness, personality, and reputation.”
A project designed by Gibbs College of Architecture faculty member Austin Lightle has been selected for BuildFest 2026, a national art and architecture festival held at the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts in New York, on the historic grounds of the 1969 Woodstock Music Festival.
Two Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture alumni are helping shape recommendations that could influence affordable housing design and construction across Oklahoma.
The University of Oklahoma Libraries recently welcomed Carl Siegel as an Architecture Librarian and Archivist and Assistant Professor. In his role, Siegel supports students, faculty and staff across the Gibbs College of Architecture while also serving as archivist for the American School of Architecture Archives.
