Project Manager Scott Miller was recently named one of the Southwest’s Top Young Construction Professionals by Engineering News-Record, a weekly magazine that provides news, analysis, data and opinion for the construction industry worldwide. The awards are given to people younger than 40 in the architecture, engineering and construction community.
Scott has been an employee-owner with Sundt for 11 years.
What was your first thought when you learned you won the award?
I appreciated the acknowledgment knowing a lot of what I’ve accomplished had more to do with dedication and hard work than innovation and ideas. It’s great to know that a well-respected publication is able to identify people on an individual basis and give them deserved recognition.
What has been your biggest accomplishment (individual or team) since joining Sundt?
It was by far completing the replacement of the runway in Minot, North Dakota. Our project was completed between two winters and we finished nine days early. The runway was shut down and the displaced B-52s were in the air on their way back as we were doing the final sweep of the landing surface. Most of the team worked constantly during the summer to make sure we finished on time.
How open has Sundt been to allowing young professionals to bring their ideas to the table?
Sundt and our leadership have always been open to allowing people at any level in the company to bring a new idea forward. They also let those who bring a new idea drive it to success to give people a sense of ownership in what they’ve developed.
How important is the role being played by technology in both the preconstruction and construction phases?
It becomes more important every day as we discover more efficient ways of doing things and our clients expect more from us than just a finished product. Technology helps keep us on pace with our competitors and streamline tasks that can drain countless hours from our employees’ workday.
What do you see in your future as a Sundt employee-owner?
I expect my role to keep expanding as I gain more experience managing projects and larger teams. I believe others feel the same way, which will allow me to be satisfied with what I accomplish throughout the remainder of my career.