This summer, Barron Collier Companies (BCC) welcomes twelve interns working across its development, utilities, engineering, marketing and finance divisions. Chase Atterbury, Connor Poirier, Cooper Pertchik, Devin Vogel, Diego Gromas, Gabriel Cerminara, Greta Coka, Bryan Diaz, Keydi Santis Vazquez, Nelymar “Nely” Zayaz, Phillip Drez, and Sting Gonzalez will contribute their unique skills and perspectives while gaining hands-on experience. Their time with BCC will offer valuable insight into potential career paths beyond higher education.
Peninsula engineering intern, Garbiel Cerminara, is enrolled at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) majoring in civil engineering. He has the opportunity to learn how civil engineering works outside the classroom. Working with Peninsula engineers, Brett, David Hurst and Jason, Gabriel will collaborate on development projects while also learning about computer software applications like platting. His goal after graduation is to take The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, the first step towards becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE).
Greta Coka is an FGCU finance major and is interning with the development operations and finance team. She plans on pursuing real estate and wants to learn about all of the projects that are managed at BCC. Greta is interning with four other interns in the same department. She is using this opportunity to learn valuable communication skills, being the only woman on her interning team.
“Working with four male interns has been a unique and valuable experience for me so far. It’s given me insight into how to communicate with different types of people in the same work environment. I appreciate the opportunity to work in a diverse environment and learn from experts in the real estate operations and finance fields,” said Greta.
Through partnership with The Immokalee Foundation, Keydi Santis Vazquez is working with the marketing and public relations department to participate in advertising strategies and content creation while also taking part in executive planning meetings. Keydi intends to strengthen her marketing knowledge to better understand the multitude of career options there are in this field. She hopes to gain many skills while also building her network.
FGCU environmental engineering student, Nelymar “Nely” Zayas, is interning alongside Rebecca Acx, Engineering CIS Manager at Ave Maria Utility Company
(AMUC) where she will obtain skills in design software and geographic information systems, plus community engagement projects, like hosting the Boys & Girls Club of Collier County for a summer fieldtrip at the AMUC plant campus. Nely’s ultimate career goal is to work in water utilities, and she is being provided that experience at AMUC’s water treatment plant.
As for returning interns, Connor Poirier and Devin Vogel, much to say on their return:
“For me, last summer was a great opportunity and to continue my career development here with such diligent, hardworking individuals who make the work environment an enjoyable experience,” said Poirier. Devin feels the same way. “The people make the place, and I find that to be true within Barron Collier Companies and AMUC. Everyone is so lovely and willing to mentor, that it feels safe to come back and try new things,” said Devin.
By fostering a culture of professional growth, BCC remains committed to engaging its summer interns—supporting their exploration of industry interests and development as the next generation of leaders
