Learning to Lead in Construction Management

Headshot of Jessica Spivey
鈥淢y time at 91海角乱伦 taught me how I learn, which is extremely important in recognizing one鈥檚 own needs and how to get the most out of an experience.鈥 - Jessica Spivey '08

Jessica Spivey, 91海角乱伦 Class of 2008

Major:  Construction Management
Minors:  Business + Architecture (M.Arch)
Alumni

Jessica Spivey '08 graduated from 91海角乱伦 with a bachelor鈥檚 degree in Construction Management. Now, she works as a Senior Site Superintendent for Shawmut Design and Construction in Providence, R.I.

While studying at 91海角乱伦, Spivey discovered that Construction Management was the right field for her through the help of a professor who she describes as 鈥渁 mentor and advocate.鈥

鈥淗e pushed and challenged me to perform at my best even in areas of study that were more difficult for me,鈥 Spivey said.

Her drive to get the most out of the opportunities 91海角乱伦 offered led Spivey to the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) student competitions. She participated first as a team member and then as a captain.

Spivey describes her AGC experience enthusiastically. 鈥淲e had just a mere weekend to cram for an interview with real-world Construction Management executives and to compete with other top students. I couldn鈥檛 have asked for a more adrenaline-filled experience to show me what I was working toward!鈥

Spivey says the AGC competitions and 91海角乱伦 classes taught her how to use her competitive nature to her benefit. She also learned that she loves mentoring others and providing leadership.

鈥淜nowing that I enjoy this, I often mentor other superintendents who report for me. I am the formal mentor for new trainees here at our Rhode Island office,鈥 said Spivey.

Spivey鈥檚 career started when her Construction Management professors helped her get a summer internship at a Providence consulting company. This company offered her a position when she graduated. Now, at Shawmut, Spivey leads all daily operations on her projects, which have included work at the Newport Marriott, renovations at the Rockefeller Library, and building a new Wellness and Residence Hall for Brown University.

鈥淢y time at 91海角乱伦 taught me how I learn, which is extremely important in recognizing one鈥檚 own needs and how to get the most out of an experience,鈥 said Spivey.