"When I was younger," Carlos Martin told us recently, "I hated math and never used computers." Naturally, he graduated this year from Whittier College with a double-major in mathematics and computer science, plus a minor in physics.
Go figure.
Carlos explained that once he started taking more math classes in school, he began to see how those concepts could be applied to the real world. He is especially interested in 3-D modeling and first began working on the Project as an intern last year putting together computer models. Specifically, Carlos worked on modeling the Arch Ribs with engineer Kyle Reed and looks forward to seeing those elements come to life soon.
After graduating college in May of this year, Carlos was hired to the Project and placed into the Core Competency Training Program (CCTP). This two-year program from Skanska allows new engineers to receive training and experience while rotating through the responsibilities of six different roles on the Project. For example, Carlos is now working in Project Controls to oversee the payments of subcontractors.
It can be difficult to understand all of the information and terminology needed to do his job, but Carlos recognizes that he can rely on his coworkers for support. "You can’t do this all by yourself," Carlos says. "You have to like working with other people."
When he's not on the job, Carlos might be found with a paintbrush in his hand. After a trip to the Getty Museum, he was inspired to create artwork of his own. So he bought an oil paint starter kit and began practicing. It's not a hobby Carlos had ever tried before, but he says that he really enjoys painting now.
Go figure.
Carlos Martin
