The Boys of Summer
Sun, Surf, and Smiles: Wrapping Up an Epic Summer at Koa Project Management
Patrick Breeden and JB Kerrigan, 2025 Summer Interns.
As summer in Hawaii comes to a close, so does the full-time internship for two outstanding young men who joined Koa Project Management (KPM) for the season. Patrick Breeden returns to Connecticut for his junior year studying Mechanical Engineering, and James (JB) Kerrigan heads back to Utah to continue his junior year in Marketing.
During their time with KPM, both Patrick and JB gained invaluable hands-on experience working alongside seasoned professionals. Their summer journey exposed them to a wide range of industry insights, including:
Cost & Change Management
Site Inspections
Reading Construction Drawings
Prioritizing Tasks & Deliverables
Use of AI & BOTS in Construction
Job Site Safety
Renovation Work
Site Development
Planning & Scheduling
Engineering Software
Working in a High-Performance, Results-Oriented Environment
Decision Making & Risk Management
Estimating & Budgeting
Active Participation in Team Meetings
Teamwork & Collaboration
Investing Strategies in Construction Projects
But at KPM, it’s not all work and no play! This summer was also filled with memorable moments beyond the office:
The whole team caught waves during group lessons at the Wave Park.
Patrick and JB made the most of Hawaii’s long, sunny days riding natural waves.
The team toured the USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), the United States Navy’s third Nimitz-class supercarrier — an unforgettable experience!
The summer wrapped up with an annual team dinner, a cherished tradition where everyone comes together to relax, share stories, and celebrate a summer well spent.
This summer was more than just an internship; it was an epic experience of learning, growing, and building lifelong memories. We wish Patrick and James all the best as they head back to school, knowing they leave Koa Project Management better prepared for the future.
Mahalo for joining us on this journey!
Scott Ruppel, President and CEO, Patrick and JB touring the USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), the United States Navy’s third Nimitz-class supercarrier.
The summer interns joining the Koa Project Management team at an onsite walkthrough of the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Downtown Honolulu.
JB feeling cool and accomplished in the new Koa Project Management office.
Some of the Koa Project Management team looking nice and professional for their company headshots.
JB and Jim Kerrigan, VP of Projects for Aspen Project Management, soaking up some fun in the sun on the Big Island.
JB and Julia Ruppel, Vice President and Chief Technology Officer, working hard and having fun while doing it.
JB and Patrick touring the USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), the United States Navy’s third Nimitz-class supercarrier.
Patrick and JB learning in real time how complex projects can be!
Patrick surfing it up at the Wai Kai wave pool team outing.
JB looking the part at the onsite walkthrough of the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Downtown Honolulu.
JB and Patrick saying bon voyage at their team farewell dinner at the Pacific Club.