FOURTH YEAR UNDERGRADUATE
Katie Dang—DPI Construction Management Award
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Katie Dang—DPI Construction Management Award
About the Award
DPI Construction Management Award:
For a student who demonstrates excellence in project management.
As a fourth-year undergraduate student within the Department of Architectural Science, I have found and fostered an immense passion for design and construction across all phases of project delivery throughout my time studying at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU). My exposure to both the academic and practical sides of the industry thus far has bolstered my interest in construction and further led me to study under the Project Management stream. In this way, I hope to begin finding footing within this dynamic, interdisciplinary industry where I can play a part in developing impactful spaces.
Throughout my academic journey, I have built a strong foundation in both project management and the technical aspects of construction and building systems—expertise essential in effective management of projects of all sizes. My coursework has spanned a broad range of topics, from navigating the complexities of the AEC industry to core construction principles, building systems, procurement, and project economics. These courses have equipped me with key skills such as resource allocation, project scheduling, and risk mitigation.
My focus and dedication in these areas led me to qualify for the Architectural Science Department's co-operative education program, where I secured a 16-month internship in healthcare construction management at North York General Hospital’s Capital Planning & Redevelopment department.
During my internship, I adapted to and managed key aspects of various renovation and new construction projects within the complex built environment of healthcare facilities. My responsibilities included supporting capital projects through budgeting and financial forecasting, contract administration, and development of RFP/RFQ documents for material and service procurement. Additionally, I facilitated communication between stakeholders, represented the hospital in OAC meetings, and coordinated construction efforts among external contractors and internal clients, including hospital stakeholders and clinical staff.
I actively monitored on-site architectural, electrical, and mechanical construction to ensure compliance with strict healthcare standards. I also assisted with the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care capital approval processes, gaining vital experience in working with various authorities having jurisdiction. Furthermore, I oversaw project closeout, including permit closure, financial closeout, and project handover. This experience taught me how to navigate high-stakes environments where timelines and on-site activities directly impact patient care.
This opportunity to first assist and shadow my experienced colleagues and industry professionals inspired in me values of accountability, adaptability, independence, and communication. When I was challenged further to grow and manage my own projects, I learned to put into practice these skills and develop my own methods of coordinating work and tackling the complexities of construction management.
Throughout both my academic and internship experiences, I have demonstrated my ability to work collaboratively in both leadership and supportive roles to ensure successful project delivery. At the hospital, I managed conflicting priorities among stakeholders throughout all project phases, effectively adapting and learning on the job while applying the knowledge and skills I gained during my undergraduate studies. These experiences have sharpened my leadership skills, communication, and agile work approach, which I believe are core elements of excellence in project management.
DPI Construction Management Award:
For a student who demonstrates excellence in project management.
As a fourth-year undergraduate student within the Department of Architectural Science, I have found and fostered an immense passion for design and construction across all phases of project delivery throughout my time studying at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU). My exposure to both the academic and practical sides of the industry thus far has bolstered my interest in construction and further led me to study under the Project Management stream. In this way, I hope to begin finding footing within this dynamic, interdisciplinary industry where I can play a part in developing impactful spaces.
Throughout my academic journey, I have built a strong foundation in both project management and the technical aspects of construction and building systems—expertise essential in effective management of projects of all sizes. My coursework has spanned a broad range of topics, from navigating the complexities of the AEC industry to core construction principles, building systems, procurement, and project economics. These courses have equipped me with key skills such as resource allocation, project scheduling, and risk mitigation.
My focus and dedication in these areas led me to qualify for the Architectural Science Department's co-operative education program, where I secured a 16-month internship in healthcare construction management at North York General Hospital’s Capital Planning & Redevelopment department.
During my internship, I adapted to and managed key aspects of various renovation and new construction projects within the complex built environment of healthcare facilities. My responsibilities included supporting capital projects through budgeting and financial forecasting, contract administration, and development of RFP/RFQ documents for material and service procurement. Additionally, I facilitated communication between stakeholders, represented the hospital in OAC meetings, and coordinated construction efforts among external contractors and internal clients, including hospital stakeholders and clinical staff.
I actively monitored on-site architectural, electrical, and mechanical construction to ensure compliance with strict healthcare standards. I also assisted with the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care capital approval processes, gaining vital experience in working with various authorities having jurisdiction. Furthermore, I oversaw project closeout, including permit closure, financial closeout, and project handover. This experience taught me how to navigate high-stakes environments where timelines and on-site activities directly impact patient care.
This opportunity to first assist and shadow my experienced colleagues and industry professionals inspired in me values of accountability, adaptability, independence, and communication. When I was challenged further to grow and manage my own projects, I learned to put into practice these skills and develop my own methods of coordinating work and tackling the complexities of construction management.
Throughout both my academic and internship experiences, I have demonstrated my ability to work collaboratively in both leadership and supportive roles to ensure successful project delivery. At the hospital, I managed conflicting priorities among stakeholders throughout all project phases, effectively adapting and learning on the job while applying the knowledge and skills I gained during my undergraduate studies. These experiences have sharpened my leadership skills, communication, and agile work approach, which I believe are core elements of excellence in project management.
