Schemmer’s Dan Kerns, AIA, Featured in Midlands Business Journal
Schemmer’s Dan Kerns, AIA, Principal, was quoted in the June 4, 2021 issue of the Midlands Business Journal, the business newspaper of greater Omaha, Lincoln and Council Bluffs. The article, "Careers in architecture difficult to find for new graduates," discusses how the demand in architecture jobs for new graduates has changed recently due to COVID.
Firms Looking for Experience in Post COVID Era
"My perception is that the job market in Nebraska for architecture graduates is neutral. There are jobs out there for new graduates, but not as many as in the past," said Kerns.
"I think the reason for this is that as firms come out of the post COVID era, they are staffing back up but want experienced people. COVID has had a tremendous market impact, and many projects were canceled or put on hold. Thus, layoffs and staffing growth paused since the duration of the COVID impact was unknown. What we've encountered is that the qualified and available talent pool to hire senior level or experienced architects is small and competitive."
He went on to say that he believes as the industry slowly begins to build back up to more normal operations, things will continue to gain momentum.
Internships Provide Real Work Experience
Kerns also discussed interning as a way for graduates to gain real work experience to add to their portfolios.
"Firms like Schemmer have good training and mentoring programs that will provide graduating architecture students the opportunity to build their technical skills."
He added this tip for recent graduates, "Be motivated and don't be afraid to pursue positions in firms that you may feel you are not qualified for. Often firms will make a hire knowing that you will have to grow into a position. Sell your skill set and strengths but remain humble. Look for fit for you in a firm and how the firm culture fits with you."
Lastly, Kerns gave the reminder to keep the basics in mind, "When it comes to talent, a person's attitude, poise, sense of humor and integrity cannot be taught and is a game changer when building a career."
To read the entire article, please see the June 4, 2021 issue of the Midlands Business Journal. The article can be found on pages 6-7.
Design with Purpose. Build with Confidence.
Schemmer is a full-service architecture, engineering, and construction field services, consultant. Providing responsible solutions for complex design and construction-related challenges.
Founded in 1959, we are grounded in our past but remain fully committed to the future. Located in four States and seven offices throughout the Midwest, Schemmer is providing services to clients from coast-to-coast and border-to-border across the United States.
