The Building Business

Building business is a crucial and ongoing process of all organizations. Through the lens of a commercial construction company, students will delve into the process of developing business relationships while also learning how to build out a project for a client. A special focus is also placed on the internal and external factors critical to the success and growth of a small business.

Students will work in teams for the construction company as they navigate the process of evaluating potential sites for a client’s new manufacturing facility. Teams will consider various relationships that affect bringing the project forward–from working with contractors, getting site approvals, to balancing their client’s needs . The teams will generate feasibility assessments, including perceived opportunities/risks,  and the class must determine the ultimate recommendation for the client.   

Retail is probably the most familiar industry in the world, with trillions of dollars in revenue produced across billions of shoppers annually. Yet, few understand how retailers weave together unique go-to-market strategies to drive profitable growth in competition with one another. This course will show you how to approach retail as an analyst does--by holistically assessing a retailer’s operational, marketing, and merchandising/finance execution to identify strengths and opportunities for growth. At the same time, students will learn core analyst skill sets and practice communicating insights and recommendations in industry contexts.

Resume writing, interviewing, LinkedIn, how to search for a job or internship - this course will prepare you for all that it takes to develop your professional profile. Alumni and employer guest speakers will visit the class to share their career journey. This course will allow students to truly measure their career interest through a variety of experiences. Students will have the opportunity to take self-assessment tests in order to assist in focusing on their area of interest.