Samuel Sousa
What are you passionate about and how do you pursue that passion at PMA?
I am passionate about learning. PMA provides support and endless opportunity for me to expand my knowledge. Not only do I get to grow my skills and expertise, but I am able to focus on topics I am most interested in. For example, since completing some courses in data analytics, PMA provides me with the opportunity to apply what I learned both internally and with clients to continue to refine my skills. To further support my passion for learning, I am currently working toward my MBA at Kellogg School of Management and PMA also supported me with this endeavor.
What current project(s) are you working on?
Currently, I am working with Cargill on project Rainier. This is a feed mill facility expansion project located near Seattle, Washington. The PMA team is providing project controls, scheduling, and cost management services. My role on this project consists of helping with the development of the master schedule. The project started in the summer of 2023 and is on track to complete in the spring of 2025. In addition, I am helping Cargill with data analytics initiatives.
Who/what inspires you to push yourself? (Personal heroes, family members, ideas)
The impact I have on others around me inspires me to push myself. Whether it be a coworker, client, family member, or friend, I want to always show up as the best person and mentor that I can possibly be.
What are the most positive aspects of working at PMA? Or Share your impressions of PMA’s culture.
My favorite aspect of PMA’s culture is the flexibility and understanding of the need to balance work with other demands. For example, I can complete my work for PMA while still attending school and meeting the requirements to earn my MBA. Additionally, the people are a very positive aspect of working at PMA. I always feel welcome and listened to. Both coworkers and leaders take what I say into consideration when making decisions and that makes me feel like a valued part of the company.
What is something innovative happening in your industry that makes you excited about the future?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly growing and impacting many job sectors. I am very interested in how generative AI, specifically, will benefit the construction industry. Generative AI creates data based on prompt criteria. Its utilization holds significant promise in enhancing project management, metric tracking, and site visualization, among other advantages.
What university or college did you graduate from?
I earned my bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Brasilia in 2016. In 2018, I graduated with my master’s in construction management from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Currently, I am working toward my Master of Business Administration from Northwestern Kellogg School of Management and aim to finish in the fall semester of 2024.
What is your favorite local establishment/feature (restaurant, museum, stadium, etc.)?
Mediterranean food is my favorite, so I love going to Aba in Fulton Market. During the summer, I like to go to baseball games. The Chicago Cubs are always fun to watch, but when it’s time for business, I go see the Chicago White Sox, they play a good game. The Art Institute Chicago is also one of my favorite things to do in Chicago. They offer free admission on Thursdays for residents. I enjoy the different art exhibitions and try to go a few times per year.
Provide a fun fact or secret talent about yourself.
A few facts about myself would be that I love cooking, especially Italian food. My favorite dish to make is homemade gnocchi. Fairly recently, my younger sister inspired me to go skydiving because she wouldn’t stop bragging about her own experience. Honestly, it was incredible, and I would like to go again. I did it in Hawaii and the view was insanely awesome. Beautiful shades of blue surrounded me, and I had an unbeatable view of the island and mountains. Additionally, in 2024, I would like to get my scuba diving certification this year.