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Intern Spotlight: Addison Dicks

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Intern Spotlight: Addison Dicks

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WMJ Intern Addison Dicks had an unusual start to his summer intern experience. Addison joined our Portside at Grande Dunes team in late March in what was supposed to be a trial run during Clemson’s Spring Break. Like most universities, Clemson did not resume in-person classes when Spring Break was over due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Fortunately for Addison, this gave him the opportunity to begin his WMJ Internship a few months early.

A Construction Science & Management student at Clemson University and a native of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Addison has witnessed the impact the construction industry has had on his home town from an early age.  Addison spent a lot of time with his father, who is a real estate agent, touring construction sites.

Working on a project nearing completion, like Grande Dunes, has given Addison a unique experience. “I am excited to see this project wrap up. You can really see everything come together in the last month.”

As Phase Two of the Grande Dunes project nears completion, Addison has had multiple responsibilities on the jobsite.

“I get to do a little bit of everything. I am forklift certified, so I drive that when needed. I have also worked on our safety reports and helped to manage our laborers and trade partners. I also work with the Project Engineer on closeout items. Of course, near the end of a project, we are also taking material inventory of everything coming into the building, so I have helped with that too.”

When asked about what he enjoyed most about his internship, Addison was quick to point out that the work environment was one of his favorite things about the job.

“I just enjoy being outside, especially in the construction atmosphere,” said Dicks. “I have learned so much more about what goes into a project, especially working with our trade partners. I try to spend time with different trades throughout each day.”

Addison gives credit to WMJ Project Superintendent, Carson Rejzer and Project Manager, Austin Tempest for helping him along the way. Both are former W. M. Jordan Interns, and are great resources to help mentor and guide Addison.  “Austin and Carson are great at explaining things to me and answering any questions I have. I try to watch how they interact with trade partners and everyone else and learn from what they do.”

Fortunately, Addison was able to finish up his sophomore year online, while continuing his work with the WMJ team.

When he isn’t working or focusing on schoolwork, Addison enjoys spending time outside. He is an avid hunter and fisher and takes every opportunity to get out on the water when the weather is nice. At Clemson, he is an officer for their Habitat for Humanity group and is a member of Ducks Unlimited.