As another record-breaking summer internship season at Goodwyn Mills Cawood (GMC) comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to celebrate the meaningful connections and unforgettable experiences that defined the past few months.
With interns embedded across multiple disciplines and office locations, this summer was more than just a learning opportunity, it was a deep dive into what makes GMC truly special.
When we asked our interns what they valued most about their time here, the response was overwhelmingly clear: our people and culture. Their words reflect not only how we work, but why we work – to build relationships, support growth and create environments where people can thrive both professionally and personally.
Munei Waliuba | Atlanta Planning
“I have really enjoyed my team and have grown fond of everyone in such a short time. I very much so wish I was in a time loop and could repeat these two months!”
Rachel Reid | Birmingham Interior Design
“No one expects you to know it all, and being open to learning is one of the best qualities you can bring to the table!”
Aarya More | Birmingham Planning
“I like how much value is placed on the process. There’s no rigid hierarchy, everyone’s voice is heard and respected. The positive and inclusive culture here truly stands out. When you’re in an environment like this, you don’t just grow professionally, you grow personally too. Grateful for this experience!”
Mycah Wells | Atlanta Engineering
“I have enjoyed the culture of the GMC Atlanta office the most this summer! From the first day I walked in, I felt welcomed as one of their own. The amount of support and genuine mentorship I have received this summer will be forever appreciated. The daily office espresso breaks, companywide events and even the simple one-on-one chats with other employees has given me the experience of a lifetime.”
Scott Reynolds | Augusta Transportation
“I have really enjoyed the culture and connectivity in my office which has allowed me to learn more than I ever expected.”
Caroline Bills | Atlanta Marketing
“I really love the energy and comradery amongst the Atlanta team. My coworkers and mentors are always willing to offer feedback or advice that helps me succeed.”
Bentley Brewer | Birmingham Communications
“I love the environment of GMC! Everyone in the office is so welcoming, and the Communications Team is constantly supporting and providing many opportunities to learn new things!”
Riley Swearer | Columbia Architecture
“I like the relationships I have established with my teammates and mentor.”
Myrna Jalkh | Mobile Architecture
“The people are what I’ve liked most! A good morning goes a long way in the office and everyone is very kind. I celebrated my 21st birthday in the office and it made the day extra special!”
But the highlights didn’t end with culture and camaraderie. From the processes they learned and skills they acquired, to their favorite projects they had the opportunities to be part of, our interns were left impacted by GMC’s superpower – technical excellence and being local.
Molly Kordecki | Birmingham Architecture
“Throughout my time at GMC, my mentors and teammates have taught me the value of experience in order to further my knowledge in architecture. I’ve grown to understand that within architecture, it is impossible to memorize and study everything, and hands-on experience is what will prepare me for future projects and tasks.”
Landon Slay | Mobile Architecture
“I’ve liked the opportunity to get out in the field and see projects in person.”
Maddy Mayhair | Mobile Coastal Engineering
“I am proud to be a small part of a group of professionals working to preserve our beaches for future generations to enjoy!”
Joshua Rhoads | Birmingham Transportation
“I enjoyed touring the Coca-Cola Amphitheater during its construction.”
Austin Ayers | Nashville Architecture
“I have really enjoyed learning about the real-world design process and how that translates into the construction and finishing touches of the project.”
Rodrigo Carbajal | Atlanta Architecture
“I really enjoyed working on Tift County Middle School and Atlanta Public Schools secure vestibules. I thought that getting to see firsthand how architects can design to keep children safe and meeting people with stories of this matter had a powerful impact on me.”
Marlo Rebel | Pensacola Architecture
“I had the opportunity to contribute to the early design phases of the Fricker Resource Center Renovation. This experience taught me the value of patience, open-mindedness, and how ideas can grow through conversation and feedback. Watching this project come to life has been the highlight of my internship!”
John Zimmerman | Nashville Water Resources Engineering
“The Grasslands Sewer Treatment Plant Improvements project was definitely one of my favorites. I learned a lot about wastewater treatment and large-scale engineering projects in general. It was great being part of the team finalizing the plans. Best of all, those plans will soon benefit the community of Franklin. I’m thankful I got to contribute.”
Sophie Welling | Auburn Architecture
“I’ve had the chance to work on a few different projects at Auburn University! It’s been a great learning experience because I’ve really gotten to be a part of every phase of a project from start to finish! And the best part is getting to be involved in projects on my own college campus!”
Saanvi Patel | Montgomery Justice Architecture
“It’s really interesting to see the plans and the actual building side-by-side on site visits for the justice work we do. I’ve met many new people and made lasting connections because of these projects.”
Ella Owen | Montgomery Environmental
“I’ve really enjoyed working on stream data collection from Red Eagle Mitigation Bank!”
At GMC, we take pride in our internship program being an opportunity to invest in future professionals and giving them a first-hand look into what it means to build communities with purpose.
We’re incredibly proud of the 70+ interns across our footprint who joined us this summer, and look forward to their next ventures!
