Aug. 22, 2024
Contact: Janese Heavin, heavinj@missouri.edu
Photo by Eronie Kamukama
Although he’s not yet a student at the University of Missouri, Josh Candrl has crossed a few things off of his Mizzou to-do list. He’s made more than a couple of laps across Francis Quadrangle. He’s experienced the hands-on learning philosophy known as the Missouri Method. And he’s gained unique perspectives of campus — including ones from 25 feet underground.
Candrl, a sophomore at Moberly Area Community College who’s eyeing Mizzou’s College of Engineering, spent the summer working as an intern for MU Campus Facilities. And it’s been an especially exciting time to be part of the team. Crews are making significant improvements to the Quad, including replacing the nearly 150-year-old steam tunnel that spans from the MU Power Plant to Lowery Mall.
Built in the 1880s, the 220-foot-long tunnel carries steam from the Power Plant to key buildings across campus. Contractors this summer dug out the tunnel’s old bricks and installed concrete walls that are expected to support campus needs for the next 100 years.
Candrl first interned with Campus Facilities last summer after his mom, Julie — who works at the MU Power Plant — encouraged him to apply for the position.
As part of this year’s internship, Candrl was charged with documenting the work through photos and videos. He also reviewed contracts and change orders, relayed information to field crews, kept maps updated, monitored security fencing and helped solve day-to-day problems.
“It’s been a great hands-on experience,” Candrl said. “With this gig, I’ve been able to be on the other side of the construction fence and see the whole scope of a project. And it’s a big project — the Quad is one of the most recognized locations in the state — so it’s been cool to be a part of the team working to improve it.”
In addition to working on the tunnel project, Candrl has assisted with other work on the Quad, including the installation of a new state-of-the-art irrigation system, replacing the turf and updating infrastructure such as sidewalks and lighting.
Experiencing the Missouri Method
Campus Facilities is just one group that offers hands-on internships throughout the year.
These opportunities allow students to gain real-world experience that complements their academic pursuits, said Derick Laubert, a construction manager at Mizzou. For instance, engineering-minded students can be part of planning, design and building maintenance through ongoing openings with Campus Facilities.
“It’s a great way to be part of building projects and get a grasp of engineering and construction practices,” Laubert said. “Josh has done very well. He’s grown a lot in the last couple of years, and we know he’ll be successful wherever his journey takes him.”
Candrl, who enjoys cheering on the Mizzou Tigers in his spare time, hopes to pursue a career in construction. After he finishes his associate’s degree this coming spring, he’s considering transferring to Mizzou Engineering for a civil engineering degree and construction management certificate.
His Campus Facilities internship, he said, has equipped him with the organizational, communication and leadership skills he needs to continue on that path.
