Walker Smith

Born and raised in Jacksonville, Walker Smith went out-of-state for college but always knew he would find opportunity and success returning to his hometown.

“I went to the University of South Carolina intending to return to Jacksonville after graduation,” said Smith, a Project Associate at Miller Electric Company.

Born and raised in Jacksonville, Smith graduated from the University of South Carolina Darla Moore School of Business in May 2024. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a minor in Sport and Entertainment Management. Smith initially planned to major in sports and entertainment management and selected the University of South Carolina since it is recognized as a top college for its program. During his first semester, he changed his major to business administration.

“I found out that the most successful Sports and Entertainment Management graduates also had a business degree,” Smith said. “However, my internships at Miller Electric made me realize that I wanted to work in construction.”

Miller Electric Company’s internship program is designed to provide college students with a hands-on learning experience in their field of study. Smith completed two summer internships at Miller Electric and also served as an Intern Program Coordinator, where he helped plan and execute the company’s program including orientation and capstone content for 48 interns. Those experiences combined with his appreciation of Miller Electric’s culture that supports connection and collaboration made Smith realize he wanted to transition from intern to full-time employee after graduation.

“I am grateful for all the lessons in leadership I received while interning with Miller and the opportunity to develop my relationship building and leadership skills,” Smith said. “Miller Electric Company’s internship program is an incredible learning experience for everyone.”

His current role as Project Associate is the first phase on the path to becoming a Project Manager. The Project Associate is a client-facing role that requires the ability to build relationships both in and out of the office.

“My role is driven by relationships with customers, vendors and other employees,” Smith said.

Smith enjoys working in Miller Electric’s fast-paced working environment. His role requires the ability to work as part of a team as well as strong computer and communication skills. Smith’s favorite projects are team-driven. He says the most rewarding aspect of his work is achieving a desired final result – whether it is a business unit being awarded a bid or seeing the completion of a project.

“Anything where the final result leads to a feel-good moment,” Smith said. “It makes me happy to say, ‘I was able to contribute and help make this happen, benefitting my team long-term.’”

While attending the University of South Carolina, Smith served as a University Ambassador, giving tours to prospective students, families and special groups. Smith encourages others is to get involved in organizations and activities. His advice to both students and young professionals: identify and cultivate your resources.

“Your relationships – your friends, family and colleagues – are your resources,” Smith said. “They will help and support you, so it’s important to nurture them.”