At Sanford Contractors, we believe every great project starts with great people. This summer, through our student programs, we proudly invested in the next generation of construction leaders. As the season winds down, we celebrate the growth, hard work, and hands-on experience these students gained across a wide range of projects.

On July 22, we honored our 2025 College Interns with a special dinner at the Durham Bulls game. Joined by their summer mentors and SCI leadership, the evening was a time to connect, share stories, and celebrate accomplishments. Our 2025 College Interns included Alyson Pedley (NC State University), Colin Barrett (East Carolina University), James Gaudet (Appalachian State University), John Queen (East Carolina University), and Walker Lundy (Central Carolina Community College).

James Gaudet reflected on his internship experience, saying, “This has confirmed to me that construction is the field that I want to pursue a career in.” John Queen added, “This experience with Sanford Contractors has helped me immensely. I realized that I really enjoy commercial construction and that I want to pursue a career in this industry.”

Just days later, on July 28, we wrapped up the 2025 Construction Academy with a celebration honoring 12 high school students from six local schools — the largest cohort to date. These students worked alongside dedicated Sanford Contractors mentors for nine weeks, gaining valuable industry skills while earning college credit. Students in this year’s Construction Academy included Aiden Hall, Andy Miranda, Ayden Mashburn, Branson Smith, Carter Mashburn, Chris Beard, Luke Garris, Logan Melton, Mike Ledezma, Porter Barnes, Ty Gilson, and Victor Reyna.

Family, friends, mentors, and representatives from Lee County Schools and Central Carolina Community College joined the Construction Academy celebration. Each student was recognized for their growth and contributions, while mentors shared stories that illustrated just how much these pre-apprentices accomplished.

“This program taught me not only multiple skills I will apply toward my degree and career in civil engineering, but also skills I can apply in my personal life,” shared Ty Gilson, a Construction Academy participant from Lee County High School who spent the summer working in our Bridge Division.

We’re incredibly proud of the hard work and achievements of all our summer program participants, and are pleased to share that several will continue working with Sanford Contractors into the school year. We look forward to supporting their continued success in the construction industry and beyond.

Learn more about the Construction Academy here. Questions about our college internship program? Click here or reach out to Zac West.