Choosing a career is rarely a straight line. Sometimes you explore a few different directions before you finally land on the one that feels right. That is exactly what happened for Jonas Perryman, one of our recent Project Management interns. His summer with MAREK helped him discover not only a passion for construction, but also the kind of company culture he wants to be part of in the future.
Here is a look at Jonas’s journey, what he learned, and why he encourages other students to take a closer look at opportunities in the construction industry.
DISCOVERING CONSTRUCTION: THE MOMENT IT CLICKED
Jonas began college exploring several fields. He tried medicine. He considered business. None of it felt like the right long term fit. Everything changed once he took his first steps into construction management.
“I wanted a career where I could work hard and see real results from my effort. Construction gives you something tangible. You can look at a building and say, “I helped make that happen.”
That desire to work with purpose and build something meaningful is what drew Jonas into the field and what continues to inspire many of our team members today.
WHY JONAS CHOSE MAREK FOR HIS SUMMER INTERNSHIP
As Jonas explored internship opportunities, one company consistently rose to the top: MAREK.
“I kept hearing how respected MAREK is for both craftsmanship and how they treat their people. That combination stood out and made me want to be part of the team.”
Our focus on quality, integrity, safety, and people is what drew Jonas in and what made his summer here a positive learning experience.
A DAY IN THE LIFE: OFFICE LEARNING, FIELD ACTION, REAL IMPACT
There is no such thing as a dull day for a Project Management intern at MAREK, and Jonas quickly learned that firsthand.
Some days he spent in the office helping project managers with pricing, reviewing RFIs, and learning the documentation side of the job. Other days, Jonas was out in the field walking jobsites, tracking progress, coordinating with lead foremen, and seeing how projects move forward in real time.
“The variety was incredible. I got to see both the technical side and the people side of project management. That made the experience truly valuable.”
This kind of hands on learning gives students a rare opportunity to understand both the big picture planning and on site execution.
THE SKILL THAT MADE THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCE
Out of all the knowledge Jonas gained, one skill rose above the rest: communication.
“The difference between a smooth project and a difficult one often comes down to communication. It is a work skill, but it is also a life skill.”
MAREK places a strong emphasis on communication across teams and project stages, and Jonas carried that lesson with him as he returned to school.
THE PEOPLE WHO HELPED SHAPE HIS SUMMER
Construction is built on teamwork, and Jonas felt the strength of that support from day one.
He worked closely with the entire drywall team and connected with former interns who shared stories and guidance that helped him picture his own future in the industry.
“Everyone played a part in helping me learn. The support made a big impact on me.”
That sense of teamwork and mentorship is a defining part of the MAREK culture.
SHAPING HIS FUTURE
“MAREK showed me the standard I want for my future. I saw how employees should be supported and respected. That set the bar for what I want in my career.”
The dedication and professionalism he experienced helped him define the kind of company he wants to work for and the kind of teammate he wants to become.
JONAS’S ADVICE FOR FUTURE INTERNS AND YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
Jonas has a simple but powerful message for anyone considering a career in construction or exploring the idea of a summer internship.
“Learn as much as you can. At first everything feels overwhelming, but the more you see and experience, the more confident and well-rounded you become. That is what helps you figure out what you enjoy most.”
Curiosity. Effort. A willingness to grow. These traits go a long way in both construction and career development.
The MAREK team thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Jonas and being a part of his Summer 2025 career.
READY TO EXPLORE YOUR FUTURE WITH MAREK?
Whether you are a student looking for a meaningful summer internship or someone eager to begin a career with real impact, MAREK offers the kind of experience that helps you grow with purpose.
Jonas Perryman joined us for one summer. He left with clarity, confidence, and a vision for his future. You can too.
Check out Jonas’ video blog here!
Start anywhere. Grow with MAREK.