iStar Launches Construction Internship Program
Workforce Development Applications Being Accepted for City Residents Only
Asbury Park’s waterfront redeveloper iStar has launched an internship program aimed at offering local residents construction training opportunities. 
The internship program addresses a long voiced complaint that city 20-somethings are in need of employment opportunities.
“iStar is committed to workforce development in Asbury Park,” Senior Vice President of Land and Development Brian Cheripka [at right] said in a written statement. “This internship is meant to provide an opportunity for those individuals interested in construction management to gain the knowledge and skills that will enhance their professional growth.”
iStar named Sordoni Construction Company of Bedminster Township as the lead contractor for its development of 1101 
Ocean. The 16-story mixed use structure [at right] was designed by Gary Handel of Handel Architects and will feature a boutique hotel, ground floor retail, outdoor entertainment venues, and luxury homes.
In November, iStar hosted an open bid event to give local contractors an opportunity to discuss the project needs with Sordoni representatives. The initiative was aimed at addressing concerns that local contractors were being shut out of job opportunities.
Under close supervision, the selected interns will work in a support role related to core functions of the construction project, officials said.
Summer Experience Training
“This is an excellent opportunity to get hands-on construction management experience,” Cheripka said.
iStar began its local workforce development programs with its Summer Experience program, which offers seasonal employment to residents of all ages. The highly sought positions focus on helping to inform visitors not only on what is happening along the waterfront but throughout the city.
Through a collaboration with the city and hotelier David Bowd, they administered a 10-week hospitality training program in advent of The Asbury hotel’s Memorial Day
Salt School
opening last year. Held at the Boys and Girls Club on Monroe Avenue, the course including guest lecturers from Apple, Morgans Hotel Group, and Standard Hotels, who spoke on all aspects of the hospitality industry. In the end, 90 percent of those who participated in the program were hired to work in the hotel and entertainment venue.
The new internship program responsibilities include:
Assist Field Engineers with project controls, change orders, RFI’s, and other construction administration duties.
Assist in generation of various reports, and with document control.
Perform simple calculations.
Provide technical support for construction effort.
Contact vendors for information.
Comply with company policies and procedures.
Work in a manner to ensure your personal safety and that of fellow employees by following company health and safety guidelines and policies.
Qualifications for the program include:
Must be an Asbury Park Resident
Must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate course in engineering, project controls, accounting or construction management.
Detail oriented with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Interpersonal skills necessary for working in a team environment.
Ability to multi-task and follow priorities.
Self-starter with the desire to learn advanced scheduling, risk management, and project controls skills
Officials said college graduates are not eligible for internships. To apply, remit a resume and letter of interest to workforceinfo@sordoniconstruction.com.
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