From Intern to Impact: Daniel Miller

At F.H. Paschen, interns are not just learners, they’re contributors. By working directly on active projects, they gain the experience and skills needed to transition confidently into full-time roles. A great example of this path is Daniel Miller, who interned in both our Chicago and McLean offices before joining full-time as a Project Engineer.

Daniel’s internship journey was shaped by hands-on involvement in high-impact projects in Chicago including the Jackson Park Mobility Improvements for the Obama Presidential Center, Chicago Public School work, and JOC projects throughout Virginia and Maryland. One memorable moment came when he returned to the Jackson Park project two years later and saw his early contributions come to life in a community he’s personally connected to, seeing the impact of his work first-hand.

During his time as an intern, Daniel developed a strong foundation in essential project management skills, including takeoffs, estimating, scheduling, subcontractor coordination, and safety analysis. He also learned to adapt to challenges, like resolving scope gaps, which helped build his confidence and problem-solving ability. These skills, grounded in Paschen’s core values: Safety, Quality, Production, remain central to his work today.

Now, as a Project Engineer, Daniel takes on a greater level of ownership. He leads task orders, manages subcontractors, and supports both project execution and strategic planning. The shift has pushed him to think not just tactically but holistically balancing daily operations with long-term goals.

For current interns, Daniel’s advice is to embrace discomfort and stay curious. “When things don’t go as planned, these moments become opportunities to learn, adapt, and evolve.” He believes that growth happens when you’re challenged, and that initiative, attitude, and character often make the biggest impression.

Daniel credits much of his journey to the people who mentored him, especially the support of leaders in the Mid-Atlantic office and the advice that helped shape his approach to both work and personal growth. One of his mentors, former F.H. Paschen employee Charles Johnson, inspired Daniel’s personal mantra, “Find a way to be the First, Best, and Only in any field you do.” This principle, alongside great mentorship, paved the way in his transition to a full-time role.

What Daniel values most about working at Paschen is the strong culture of community and belonging. He appreciates the collaborative environment where people are trusted, challenged, and empowered. It’s a place where contributions matter and careers are built on real experience.

Daniel’s path from intern to Project Engineer is clear evidence of success for all opportunities available at F.H. Paschen for those who are driven, eager to learn, and ready to make an impact.