Intern Spotlight: Payton Burgess, Business Administration Intern
In this intern spotlight, we’re proud to introduce Payton Burgess, who has joined AO Services as a Business Administration Intern. As she completes her final semester at Texas State University, Payton brings a passion for development, home design, and real estate to her role. Here, she shares her experiences and insights from her time with us.
Gaining Hands-On Experience in Commercial Construction
As I enter my last semester at Texas State University, one of my requirements before graduating is to complete an internship. This led me to AO Services, where I've been able to apply my academic knowledge in a real-world setting, gaining hands-on experience that I know will serve as a strong foundation for my future career.
With a passion for development, home design, and real estate, I was eager to intern in a field that aligned with my interests. I looked forward to learning from industry professionals about their daily operations, long-term goals, and the strategies they employ to lead and grow their businesses. My time at AO Services has provided me with an education in these areas. Still, the most impactful lessons I've learned have come from observing how the team embodies leadership and integrity in their work.
Learning from a Team Committed to Core Values
AO Services is a commercial construction firm based in Central Texas, a region experiencing rapid growth and expansion. Gaining insight into how the company manages itself during this exciting period has been invaluable. Despite the fast-paced environment, AO operates under the philosophy that "slow is fast." This approach emphasizes integrity, avoiding shortcuts, and delivering reliable, high-quality work.
The team here embodies a culture of accountability and ownership in every aspect of the company. Built on strong core values, AO's principles serve as a guide for actions and words each day, a commitment evident in both conversations and the projects they execute. This environment has shown me the importance of letting values be the compass for both personal and professional growth.
A Rewarding and Collaborative Experience
It’s been a pleasure working alongside such a dedicated team. Under the guidance of Cassie Carter, I’ve contributed to projects involving website optimization, analytics, and development. Sammy Ramirez and Jessica Verduzco have also been instrumental in my learning, guiding me through tasks in accounting, and safety, and creating project update videos. Their mentorship has been invaluable, and I am sincerely grateful for the trust they placed in me as an intern.
This internship has provided more than just practical skills; it has given me a deeper understanding of leadership, accountability, and the value of working within a principled, growth-focused company like AO Services. I look forward to applying the insights and lessons I've gained here as I pursue a career in development and design. This experience has set a solid foundation for my journey in this industry, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow alongside such a remarkable team.
We’re inspired by Payton’s enthusiasm and commitment and are honored to play a role in the early stages of her career. Her time with us is just the beginning, and we’re excited to see the impact she’ll make in the industry.