Bridging the Gap Between Classroom + Construction

From creating intricate LEGO structures as a child to working on integrated construction teams, Domenic’s passion for building has always been front of mind. “Learning about the built environment felt like a natural fit for me,” Domenic recalls. Now, as a senior studying Civil Engineering at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Domenic has completed co-op programs with TOCCI’s Planning + Cost Engineering Team and Field Operations. He’s currently working at 1515 Commonwealth Ave.

Read about Domenic’s experiences firsthand and hear about the lessons he’s learned along the way.

What was your first co-op with TOCCI?

“I started out in the Planning + Cost Engineering department, doing takeoffs for different aspects of the buildings, speaking with subcontractors, and even visiting sites for potential projects with Joe Ferolito. I worked on the window details of 1515 Commonwealth Avenue—there are so many different types and sizes of windows, so it was crucial to know all that information. I calculated the square footage of various parts of the building—facades, siding, windows, flooring, you name it.

Fast-forward to now, and I’m in the field at 1515 Commonwealth Avenue. It’s really cool to see and understand the whole process. I loved working in the office, and I love being in the field—it’s the best of both worlds.”

What was your biggest takeaway from working with TOCCI for the first time?

“I learned how to communicate effectively with subcontractors who were bidding on our projects and became comfortable with reading the building plans. It was different from my classroom experience, and valuable to learn how to read them and navigate through all the details.”

Did you enjoy your transition from estimating to field operations?

“I’m a curious person, and I’ve always loved learning. Moving to the field is a completely different environment. It gave me a better grasp of what it means to be a Field Engineer or someday a Superintendent. I love being active and physically involved in the work.”

What’s your favorite part of your current program?

“My favorite part is definitely learning from people like Bill Welch, Luke Maglio, Caitlin Fitzgerald, and Kevin McCarthy. I also enjoy talking to the foremen and subcontractors throughout the day—they’ve been very willing to teach me. Just listening to them for ten minutes can teach you years’ worth of experience. I love understanding how things work and what it takes to get a project done.”

What skills have you developed or strengthened during your experience?

I’m proud of my ability to understand different perspectives and communicate project goals. Working with various foremen has taught me about the many layers to getting the job done. The field is fast-paced so time management is critical; You have to know what to prioritize and how to adapt to new tasks.”

Is there anything about either position or experience that surprised you? How do you envision your experience influencing your overall career?

There is so much work that goes on behind the scenes of any large-scale project. Working at TOCCI has shown me what it’s like in the real world of construction. It takes careful planning and a positive mindset. I’ve learned to focus on solutions rather than problems, and I think that attitude will carry me far in my career.”

What has been the most rewarding aspect of your overall co-op experience?

Everyone at TOCCI is kind and welcoming, and they’re always willing to teach and help you. I have been able to build relationships with some incredible people. That’s something I feel is lost in a lot of other companies. TOCCI’s co-op program is about growth and individual well-being. The tight-knit community aspect really drew me back.”

Working with problem-solvers has helped me become more determined to succeed. I look up to all of them, and the lessons they’ve taught me are things I use in my everyday life. These qualities are crucial because if you’re not working together, things don’t get done.”