As National Internship Awareness Month wraps up, mentorship remains one of the most valuable parts of the internship experience. In fact, DRMP Construction Services Project Administrator Tony Diaz helped a mentee secure a pay increase through his mentorship guidance.
That outcome reflects a broader truth about mentorship in the workplace. It creates a two-way learning environment where seasoned and early-career professionals gain insight from each other while growing in their fields.
Diaz has experienced this impact firsthand. Mentorship has contributed to his development as a leader. Early in his career, he learned from mentors who helped him navigate company practices and local agency processes, which has influenced the way he now supports others. He also continues to learn generational knowledge from younger professionals. That perspective has led him to actively participate in DRMP’s mentorship program since 2022 where he works with professionals at all levels and in various disciplines.
In this Q&A, he shares his thoughts on his role in Construction Services, what it has been like to be a mentee and a mentor, and why mentorship continues to be an important factor in professional growth.
Can you tell us about your role as a Construction Services Project Adminstrator and what a typical day looks like for you?
As a Construction Services project administrator, I oversee construction projects to ensure they meet contract requirements, safety standards, compliance standards, and quality expectations. My day typically involves coordinating with contractors, local agencies, reviewing project documentation, resolving field issues, and supporting inspectors. No two days are the same. Some are field-heavy, while others focus on reporting, scheduling, new project pursuits, staffing, and communication with clients and stakeholders.
What inspired you to get involved in DRMP's mentorship program?
I have always enjoyed mentoring, and when starting with DRMP 5 ½ years ago, I needed mentoring myself. Having someone to help me navigate DRMP and the local agencies was a great aid in my transition. The mentorship program gave me an opportunity to share my experiences, help others grow, and contribute to building a stronger future for the company.
How would you describe your mentoring style when working with interns or entry-level staff?
I try to create an environment where people feel comfortable asking questions, collaborating on creating achievable goals, being supportive, and listening.
Can you share a memorable success story or moment from your mentoring experience?
My mentee came to me feeling stuck. Their annual review didn’t reflect the full scope of their impact or the extra work they’d taken on. Together, we drew from our ongoing career planning sessions to craft a clear, confident response to leadership, both in writing and in person. The result? They secured a pay increase, gained better work-life balance, and built a stronger, more transparent relationship with their leadership team.
You've mentored individuals from different groups and disciplines. How do you tailor your approach to meet each person's needs?
Everyone learns differently, so goal setting, having discussions about their strengths, and areas for growth is how I like to start. Communication and regular feedback help with guidance to the next step no matter what group or discipline.
What are some most common challenges you see young engineers or staff face when starting out?
One common challenge is time management and prioritization early in their careers. Another is bridging the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application. I like to bring new engineers and staff members to the field to show how we manage projects in practice and network with others. Some younger engineers and staff need to build on confidence, communication, and understanding of how projects function.
What key skills or habits do you encourage interns and early-career professionals to develop?
Developing a willingness to learn and adapt is critical in this field. No two projects are the same and being nimble, organized, and having a strong work ethic is key. I also encourage them to ask questions and be proactive.
How has mentoring others influenced your own professional growth?
I feel that mentoring has made me a better leader and communicator. Not all staff members in the mentorship program are young and entry-level staff. Having exposure to multigenerational staff and mentees provides me with continuous learning and mutual respect for others.
Why do you believe mentorship is especially important in the civil engineering and Construction Services field?
Civil engineering and Construction Services rely heavily on real-world experience, judgment, and collaboration. Mentorship helps transfer that knowledge, ensures consistency in quality and safety, and prepares the next generation to take on increasing responsibility. It’s essential for individual and organizational success.
What advice would you give to interns who want to make the most out of their experience at a civil engineering firm?
Find a mentor, take initiative, ask questions, and be open to learning everything you can. Gather field experience to reinforce your design work and network with others. Step outside your comfort zone and build relationships.
Tony Diaz serves as a Project Administrator for DRMP’s Construction Services Market Sector.
