Blog: Construction Technology Student Gains Valuable Experience with Longtime Iowa Lakes Industry Partner
When Blake Thom of Comfrey, Minnesota, accepted an internship with Blue Ribbon Builders in Big Sky, Montana, he knew he would be stepping into a valuable learning experience. What he may not have realized is that he was joining a company with a longstanding history of supporting Iowa Lakes Community College students through internships and full-time employment opportunities.
Blue Ribbon Builders has welcomed multiple Iowa Lakes Construction Technology students over the years, providing on-the-job training that allows students to build their skills in real-world settings while preparing for successful careers in the construction industry.
During his internship, Thom works alongside experienced carpenters, assisting with a variety of residential construction projects. His responsibilities include helping seasoned crew members, serving as the primary “cut man,” precisely measuring, cutting, and drilling holes in structural poles before they are set in place, and completing framing projects ranging from foundational work to advanced residential construction.
The experience has reinforced that success in construction requires more than technical ability.
“I would say problem-solving and critical thinking are the most beneficial skills,” Thom said.
He credits Iowa Lakes’ Construction Technology program with providing the practical foundation needed to contribute on the job from day one.
“The major thing I learned at Iowa Lakes is the basic framing practices and the different interior and exterior trim stages,” he said. “It makes me think ahead and plan things out in my head to see if they’ll work or not.”
One project, in particular, has stood out during his internship. Thom is helping construct a custom home valued between $3 million and $4 million in a unique riverside location.
“The house is being built next to a river, and the road had to be built down into the valley just to access the site,” he said.
The project has given him firsthand experience working on a complex, high-end residential build while learning from experienced professionals in the field.
After graduation, Thom plans to return home to Minnesota to pursue his long-term career goal.
“My dream is to become a general contractor in my home state of Minnesota and provide quality, affordable work,” he said.
Internships like Thom’s demonstrate the value of Iowa Lakes’ partnerships with industry leaders such as Blue Ribbon Builders. By connecting students with experienced employers, the Construction Technology program provides opportunities to apply classroom knowledge, strengthen technical skills, and build the confidence needed for successful careers in the skilled trades.