Internships

Build Your Future with Southeastern NC’s Legacy Contractor

📍 Wilmington, NC 🗓️ 12 Weeks | May–August 2026 🎓 Juniors & Seniors 👉 Apply by March 15, 2026
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About Us

For over 33 years, McKinley Building Corporation has been Wilmington’s locally based contractor of choice. Our portfolio spans commercial, industrial, medical, restoration, and private projects. We’re proud of our reputation for quality, craftsmanship, and building lasting relationships.

Hands-On. Real Projects. Real Impact.

Program Overview

Our 12-week internship immerses you in real-world construction management. Interns work on active job sites, learn industry software, and gain hands-on experience alongside seasoned professionals.

Weeks1-2

Orientation & Foundations

  • Company history, mission, and safety protocols
  • OSHA 10 Certification (if not already certified)
  • Software training: Procore, Bluebeam, MS Project
  • Site visits to current projects
Weeks3-10

On-the-Job Training

Interns rotate through key departments and roles:

  • Project Management:
    • Support project scheduling and cost tracking
    • Assist in RFI/submittal processes
  • Field Supervision:
    • Shadow superintendents and foremen
    • Participate in daily site walk-throughs and subcontractor meetings
  • Estimating & Preconstruction:
    • Review project plans and assist with take-offs and bids
  • Quality & Safety:
    • Support Superintendents with safety audits and inspections
Week11

Capstone Project

Interns develop and present a real-world improvement plan or case study based on their experience (e.g., efficiency improvements, safety innovations, workflow recommendations)

Week12

Presentation & Pathways

  • Final presentations to leadership
  • Performance evaluations and feedback sessions
  • Career pathway discussions and potential full-time offers

What You’ll Learn

  • Project Management: Get hands-on with RFIs, scheduling, and cost tracking
  • Field Supervision: Shadow superintendents; join walk-throughs and subcontractor meetings
  • Estimating & Preconstruction: Assist with plan reviews, take-offs, and bids
  • Quality & Safety Support audits and inspections (OSHA training included)
  • Capstone Project Develop and present a site-driven improvement plan to leadership

What You’ll Gain

  • Experience on active projects
  • Mentorship and networking
  • Proficiency in Procore, Bluebeam, and MS Project
  • Exposure to every phase of construction management
  • Pathways to full-time opportunities

What You’ll Earn

Paid internship with housing options available for qualifying students.

How to Apply

Submit your application package by March 15, 2026.

Required materials:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Academic Transcript — unofficial accepted
  • 1 Letter of Recommendation — academic or professional

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    Questions?

    Contact us at internships@mckinleybuilding.com.

    It was above and beyond our expectations. The Model we want to use for all future branches.

    David Parker
    Eastern North Carolina Regional President, Park Sterling Bank

    I could not be more satisfied with the finished product.

    John Best
    Best Uniforms

    I would highly recommend this company to any business with any type of commercial building needs.

    Steve Anderson
    The Offices at Mayfaire, LLC

    My wife and I are really appreciative to McKinley Building Corporation for their assistance in helping us build our practice. I can say, without reservation, that if someone asks me about commercial contractors in the area, I would respond the same as my friend, “If I ever build more space, I won’t take bids, I’ll just call McKinley.”

    Robby Adams, MD
    Coastal Behavior Sciences

    Inside and out, the detail of the work was superior.

    W. Keith Betts
    Executive Vice President, Crescent Bank

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