Chadwyn Coutant, a proud graduate of Seminole State College of Florida, has built an impressive career in construction management as an assistant field manager at Brasfield & Gorrie. With a journey that started at Lyman High School and led him to Seminole State, Coutant reflects on the key factors that shaped his path and the experiences that prepared him for success.

Coutant attributes his decision to attend Seminole State College to a blend of friendships, family influence and practical work experience. “I was surrounded by friends who shared a common goal of success,” he recalls. Many of his peers pursued degrees in construction management or civil engineering, creating a network of support that has been invaluable in his career.

His early experiences in the field, particularly working at his family's business building conveyor systems and summers spent at a paving company, solidified his interest in construction. “Those jobs not only taught me valuable skills but also instilled a strong work ethic that I carry with me today,” Coutant explains.

During his four years at Seminole State, Coutant focused on a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management full-time. Though he did not engage in extracurricular activities, he emphasized the importance of balancing work and school. “It was a lot to juggle, but it was worth it,” he says.

Looking back, Coutant believes that internships are crucial for students in his field. “I wish I had started my internships sooner. Being hands-on in the field helped everything click into place for me,” he reflects. His three semesters as an intern at Brasfield & Gorrie proved instrumental in bridging classroom knowledge with real-world application.

Among the many influences during his time at Seminole State, Coutant cites the camaraderie with his classmates as particularly impactful. “Group projects taught me that collaboration leads to greater achievements. We all pushed each other to excel,” he shares. One of the standout courses for Coutant was the capstone project, which required extensive teamwork and dedication. “It was a true test of everything we learned throughout the program,” he recalls, noting that the experience mirrored the demands of the industry.

Academically, Coutant is proud of graduating summa cum laude and securing scholarships that eased his financial burden. “It was a rewarding journey, and I’m grateful for the support I received,” he says.

Outside of work, Coutant’s passion for construction continues with personal projects, including restoring a boat for flats fishing. “I’ve learned a lot from this project, even if it sometimes feels like it would have been easier to buy a new boat!” he laughs.

As he looks ahead, Coutant encourages current Seminole State students to seize opportunities, particularly through internships. “Brasfield & Gorrie is actively seeking new interns every semester at career fairs,” he notes, emphasizing the potential for students to kickstart their careers. 

Chadwyn Coutant's story is a testament to the power of education, hard work and community support. His journey from Seminole State to a thriving career in construction management serves as an inspiration to future generations of students.