With many traditional architecture student internships still in flux due to COVID, and based on the success of its 2020 inaugural year, the Michigan Architectural Foundation (MAF) and the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Michigan once again held the MAF + AIA Michigan Internship Bridge Program this summer.
The goal of the program is to help bridge the current gap in available student architectural internship programs in Michigan, and preserve educational, experience, and career-boosting opportunities normally provided through the traditional internship experience. This year’s program, which began in early June and ran for eight weeks, included students from Michigan’s five architectural schools participating in internships that provided virtual, in person, or a mix of the two work experience types.
Graduate architecture student Marlon Perkins, Jr. recently completed his MAF + AIAMI Bridge Internship with a South Bend, Indiana manufacturing company, General Stamping & Metalworks. He was an architectural intern in the company’s facilities department, working on new construction projects and O&M (operations and maintenance) projects related to BIM.
Meet Marlon:
“My name is Marlon Perkins, Jr. I am a proud Texan who is pursuing a Master of Architecture degree at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. My love for building, designing, and place-making has grown over my lifetime, and I appreciate all the opportunities that have presented themselves in my pursuit of a career in architecture.
The MAF + AIAMI summer internship program has allowed me to gain new perspectives on working in the profession, as well as let me foster new relationships with fellow students and architects. Over the course of my internship, I’ve been able to work with various tradespeople and participate in several aspects of the design process. I’ve had the opportunity to grow my skillset in architectural representation and even learn new programs for project coordination such as PlanGrid Build and BIM 360 Ops. I highly value the experience I’ve gained over the summer and look forward to what the future holds.”
Congratulations, Marlon, on the completion of your internship. We wish you continued success in the coming school year and beyond!