My name i
s Angelica Ferra, and I am honored to write an entry for the Global Shapers blog. I am a Project Assistant on a PMCM project at Harvard University, through the ARCADIS-US operating company.
My role resides on the Owner’s Representative Project Management team for the new Richard A. and Susan F. Smith Campus Center. This project marks a historic point in Harvard University’s long history. Currently the campus has no university wide campus center and with this project, Harvard will help create “One Harvard.” Working with Harvard has exposed me to wonderful experiences, such as being included within the Harvard culture and learning alongside some of the best Project Managers.
This is my first project since graduating from college and what a project to start with! I will be on the project from Concept Design through Project Closeout. This exposure will allow me to gain experience across phases of a project. My day to day activities vary by day, since I wear so many hats at work. I support the Project Managers and Senior Project Controls Manager on the OR team while also providing support to my client. This range of work will help me refine skills in Budget management, Master Project Schedules, Procurement, along with other manager responsibilities. These skills will be useful on future projects that I hope to work on.
Another piece I am working on is implementing a project controls software called e-Builder. This software will be custom made to suit the needs of the Smith Campus Center project. It will help keep the project budget on track, as well as manage all of the documents and reviews that take place throughout the project. Working with the team has taught me new ways to look at processes which will help create efficient work flows for invoice, contract and RFI processing.
I am happy with my choice to join ARCADIS. I am gaining valuable experience and being exposed to new aspects to the industry daily. I look forward the wonderful opportunities ARCADIS can provide.
Angelica Ferra, ARCADIS-US
