Meet Clark Summer Associate Jesús Ibarra

Clark's summer associate program offers students opportunities to build their skills in real-world scenarios, including making connections and developing their networks. During the 12-week program, participants gain insight into the daily planning, decision-making, and communication required for successful projects.

Hear firsthand about the experience from Jesús Ibarra, a Clark summer associate working on the El Paso VA Health Care Center in Texas.

Describe your role at Clark.
I’m learning and helping project managers and engineers with steel erection right now, as well as the creation and management of a door and hardware master tracking log. I’ve been brought into trade contractor meetings, which have allowed me to get experience creating meeting minutes. Aside from active construction, I’ve also learned about the other parts of the project lifecycle, like RFIs and submittals. I get to go out to the jobsite, which keeps me busy tracking progress. 

Tell us a little bit about your background. Where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in El Paso, but I have also spent a lot of time in Juarez, Mexico, because I have family there. It’s nice to be in a border town, so you can get professional opportunities in El Paso and the food and culture in Juarez. 

Where do you go to school?

I’m a rising senior at the University of Texas at El Paso, where I major in civil engineering and am a proud member of multiple construction and design-focused organizations. 

What is a fun fact that someone might not know about you?

I have a twin who is also a civil engineering major at the University of Texas at El Paso. 

How have your background or interests shaped your experience so far?

My interest in building and construction began when I played Minecraft, a computer game. My interests have since grown, and I’ve joined groups like ASCE mentorship, where I've gotten hands-on experience by constructing a concrete canoe in the fun competition that challenges civil engineering students to design, build, and race a canoe made entirely out of concrete. Having a canoe that can float is a big accomplishment!

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What drew you to Clark?

I wanted to get the opportunity to see building construction take place. Clark also gives the summer associates real responsibility, which helps me to keep growing and learning. 

Has anything surprised you so far?

Yes! I was really impressed on the first day when I started to experience the quality of work that Clark delivers. Everyone is very professional, welcoming, and creates a good community. 

What has been your favorite part of your Clark eXperience? Or what are you most excited for?

My favorite part has been getting out of my comfort zone and collaborating with my team. I’m looking forward to working with other team members around the country on the final capstone project. 

Do you have specific goals for this summer? Or longer term?

My short-term goal is to gain a better understanding of trade contractor management and how everything is delegated. My long-term goal is to be a team leader. 

Learn more about the summer associate experience and hear from other summer associates.