KKCD’s First Internship!
In August 2022, KK Construction and Designs Ltd. accepted the request of one eager and passionate Architecture student, Mr. J'von Chapman, of Signal Hill Tobago, to participate in a full service—Design and Construction—three-week internship experience.
J'von is now entering his second-year of studies in Architecture at the University of Technology, Jamaica. He had just completed his first year studies before aggressively reaching out to KKCD requesting an opportunity to intern with us. The idea of an Internship Programme is one which KKCD has toggled with for several years, however, we always believed that it was a project that we were not quite prepared for, given our on-going work-load and limited time available to training and mentoring. But J’von was so consistent, and followed up on his emails, he inspired us to meet with him as his passion came straight through the tone of his email request. His courage and enthusiasm reminded us so much of ourselves and our team members, that we too couldn’t resist the calling.
Having met with J’von and explored the option, we agreed to accept the challenge. While the period was short, the experience was mutually impactful. We were able to work with J’von providing training and mentorship, and we were quite pleased with his intuition and energy towards his works. J’von has essentially pioneered our much deliberated Internship Programme, as a sole candidate, which makes us excited for the future development of KKCD’s Internship Programme.
At the end of the internship period we sat down with J’von to hear his feedback on his experience with us, below are his responses:
How was the overall experience with the KKCD Family?
“It’s been very natural. Since the first day I’ve been here I felt like I’ve been at home; as home as I can be while at work. Keron & Tiffany (Directors & Lead Designers) really do a great job of making you feel welcomed and making you feel like you’re actually contributing. Even though as a first year student going into second year, I have little to none to offer to the team they’ve built over the past many years.”
Is there a most memorable day you can recall?
“My most memorable day, honestly, was the first day being here. The Directors were working on a proposal for a project and it was quite interesting that they allowed me to look at that process and be able to give input. And being involved as an intern—many interns aren't usually involved—especially on something as important as a major proposal for a project so that was very interesting. On that day, I also got to visit the construction sites that they have going on and it’s really amazing to see the drawings in the office and then go see the actual building coming to life.”
What is the greatest takeaway you received from your internship with KKCD?
“I have learnt to appreciate Architecture and the process more. Before you could’ve said that part of me wanted to do architecture because ‘oh they say architects get paid,’ you know. But just being with Keron and Tiffany and seeing how they work on projects as well as manage the construction sites — most architects would not really do that, they would just design. I’ve learnt to appreciate the field that I’ll probably spend the rest of my life in. It has given me a greater appreciation for what Architects do, the hours we work; and for me, something I’ve always despised was site visits. Being here has given me a greater appreciation between the drawings and the physical site: how you have to constantly relay one with the other.”
What is the next step on your path toward becoming an architect?
“The next step on my path is to go back to school in September, and just work diligently, do as best as I can so that I can have a resume/portfolio worthy of KKCD!”
J’von, we thank you for selecting us and for all your contributions. We are very lucky to have you onboard, and you're most welcome at the KKCD Family.
All the best with your studies!
