Q&A with an Engineering Alumna: Preparing for the Field

Madison Newton doesn’t have typical work days. "Everything changes each day," says the 2017 engineering graduate, who appreciates the constant change in rhythm. "One day I could be in meetings and the next I could be out in the field all day."

Originally from Groveland, Massachusetts, Newton graduated from the School of Engineering, Computing and Construction Management with a bachelor of science in engineering. She specialized in civil engineering and minored in mathematics and physics. Currently, she works for Gilbane Building Company and is based out of their Boston office.

Recently, Newton took some time to reflect on her experience at Roger and share why engineering students should choose the university.

Gilbane is one of the premier construction companies in the nation. How long have you been there and what’s your role?
I started full time here officially at the beginning of September 2017, but I’d completed a three-month internship here during the summer of 2015. Right now, I am a project engineer and am currently working on the construction of a vocational technical high school in Lexington, Massachusetts.

Every day is a bit different, but one of my main responsibilities is spending a lot of time on site at construction sites. I really enjoy that part of the job, because I can walk outside and see the project coming together from what’s on the drawings and specifications. It’s pretty cool seeing it in real life.

How did RWU prepare you for that role?
The engineering department strongly emphasizes internships and experience in your field of study, which is what got me to where I am. They helped me find an internship the summer following my first year in engineering. My professors were all very supportive and did everything they could to help me succeed. It wasn’t just key skills they taught, but also the life lessons.

My experiences outside the classroom also helped prepare me. As of my senior year, I was a member of three clubs on campus. I was a project lead for Engineers Without Borders along with serving as secretary and president of women’s rugby. Being in a lead role for those clubs showed me how to manage my time efficiently and helped with my communication skills.

What would you tell a prospective engineering student considering RWU?
Do it. That’s all I have to say.

At RWU, you’ll be challenged and succeed in ways you never thought you could. You’ll develop such close friendships and relationships with so many people and they’ll help you succeed. This program shapes you into a better student and prepares you for life after college.