#leannas

Over the past week, I've had the opportunity to dive into the world of public sector work and at the same time, build friendships with my peers from the BAC. Being a transfer student, returning to college after a gap year, this externship has given me all the more appreciation for the BAC network for such a seamless transition back into my studies.

Over the past few days at DCAMM we've been hearing bits and pieces of a wide range of ongoing state projects. To focus on one, the Holyoke Veterans Home, which is set for completion in summer 2028, will be a long-term care facility with a copious number of amenities for our veterans.

This is a collaborative project with Commodore Builders and Walsh Brothers. The future users of this project are left in great hands as Commodore is a veteran owned construction management firm, and Walsh Brothers has significant experience with clinical institutions. It's really exciting to see contractors use their connections within the community to build bonds and instill a relationship with the users during this phase in the project.

The future of this space includes the capacity to house and care for 234 veterans to enjoy amenities such as dinging and social spaces, as well as outdoor pavilions with therapeutic elements. Emphasizing connection and comfort, there are efforts to encourage outdoor usage of gardens and greenhouses that can become grounds for rehabilitation for many of the occupants.

Today, we sat in on a High Visibility Project Meeting with the commissioner of DCAMM. Being able to sit on this meeting was an eye-opening experience to say the least. It was incredible to hear about these ongoing projects and how far they've come, especially where they may go in the future. From hospitals to masterplans of campuses, there is so much progress being made on our state buildings.

To sit at this table meant to be included as an outsider. Having information be explained and shown to us as externs made me feel like I have a role, even if it's just as a listener, this opportunity showed me the importance of the work being done here at DCAMM. That is another important factor I think adds to the strength of this team, is that everyone sits at the table, and everyone can speak at the table. Even when speaking on subjects and projects that hold so much value, everyone was able to crack jokes and find time to be friends.

The workplace is a valuable space in the sense that it should be a place you feel proud to be in. On day one at DCAMM, I had the opportunity to meet just a few of the wonderful team members who have shown their devotion to supporting the people of the state and working towards a more sustainable future. This workplace holds a lot of value in not just their completed and ongoing portfolio, but through the hardworking passionate people who make this all happen.

Today, us BAC externs had the chance to get a walking tour of the State House with Ray, who is a project manager currently working on renovations within the State House. It was incredible to hear his passion for American history and storytelling as he pointed out details that many people don't pick up on as they explore this piece of architecture. Today, we didn't only hear from Ray, but Brenna who always has an eagerness to continue learning, and Betsy who has a desire to keep our city on track to achieving Net-Zero!