DEREK SISEL
ESTIMATOR
FROM: Kansas City, Missouri
THEN: Bachelor’s in Construction Management – May 2011
NOW: Mortenson – Chicago, IL
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT & CAREER PATH:
“After Graduation, I began working as a Carpenter. My field experience and education background were a good fit for a local woodworking subcontractor. After several years as an acting estimator for the woodworking company, I started looking for new career opportunities with local general contractors. I found Mortenson on ENR’s top contractor ranking and decided that I would then pursue a new career path. I have now been working in the pre-construction department as an estimator. Estimating concrete, foundations, mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection systems. My greatest achievement has been a part of building Mercy-health’s new 588,833 SF Hospital in Rockford, IL. It was a tremendous team effort requiring the talents of many team members. To date, the project is on schedule, under budget and preparing to welcome new patients this January.”
HOW MSU EQUIPPED DEREK FOR HIS CAREER:
“The TCM department staff and curriculum provided a vital foundation to my career. The broad range of courses provided a great overview of the numerous facets of individual trades that all make up the construction industry. The various ASC & NAHB competitions provided realistic simulations that tested student’s grit, determination and work ethic under similar conditions they will encounter during their career.”
ADVICE FOR CURRENT STUDENTS AND RECENT GRADUATES:
“People can be taught new skills and trades, but good work ethic is intrinsic and very sought after by most companies today. Any opportunity to enhance your experience during your education is an opportunity to excel and set yourself apart from the rest of the field.”