Ames Construction has concluded its 2026 summer internship program, bringing together more than 70 interns from more than 50 colleges and universities for field and office experience across the company. The program highlights how contractors are using structured work-based learning, mentoring and hands-on training to develop the next generation of construction professionals.
Throughout the summer, Ames interns gained exposure to a range of construction disciplines while working alongside project teams and mentors. Assignments included both field and office environments, allowing participants to develop technical skills while gaining a broader understanding of project delivery.
The program concluded with regional presentations in which interns discussed their accomplishments, lessons learned and experiences with company leaders, mentors and fellow participants.
The approach reflects a broader industry emphasis on connecting college students with practical construction experience before they enter the full-time workforce. For contractors, internship programs can provide an early pipeline for engineering, estimating, project management, field operations and other construction roles.
Interns and apprentices in Ames' Central and Eastern regions also participated in Ames Games, an interactive competition designed to expose participants to disciplines beyond their primary assignments.
The Central region held its fourth annual Ames Games event, while the Eastern region conducted the competition for the first time. Participants completed challenges involving surveying, engineering, estimating, legal and risk management, welding, excavator simulations, concrete mold making and heavy equipment operations.
The Olympic-style format required participants to work in teams while solving problems and demonstrating skills associated with different aspects of construction project delivery.
The Central Office's top team was Ames Avengers, followed by Pier Pressure and Locked In. In the Eastern Office competition, the Gold Medal Team placed first, followed by the Silver Medal Team and Bronze Medal Team.
Construction contractors continue to face pressure to recruit and retain workers with technical and field expertise. Internship programs provide companies with an opportunity to introduce students to construction careers while allowing participants to develop practical skills that complement classroom education.
Ames' combination of project assignments, mentorship, regional presentations and technical competitions illustrates how contractors can structure internship programs around both professional development and operational exposure. Programs that give students access to multiple construction disciplines can also help them understand career paths beyond traditional engineering or project management roles.
For construction owners and contractors, early engagement with colleges and universities can strengthen long-term workforce pipelines while giving students direct experience with the safety, coordination, technical and logistical demands of construction.
The completion of Ames' 2026 program underscores the role of structured internships and hands-on learning in addressing the industry's ongoing need for skilled construction professionals.
Source: Ames Construction.
