More and more young professionals begin building their experience in the construction sector while still studying. This changes not only their learning process, but also their entire perception of the profession — theory quickly turns into practice, and decisions gain real weight.
Armida’s story is about this journey: how studies and work merge into one direction, and how initiative allows you to start earlier than “expected”.
Armida Armonaitė’s decision to deepen her knowledge in construction did not come immediately.
She says it was the time after completing her bachelor’s degree that helped her clearly understand where she wanted to go next.
“After taking a two‑year break following my bachelor’s studies, I realized that my future is inseparable from the construction sector, so I decided to pursue a master’s degree. This choice was driven by the desire to make the most of my potential and further deepen the knowledge I already had,” Armida explains.
She is currently studying for a Master’s degree in Construction Management at Kaunas University of Technology, while simultaneously working on a construction site at Gilesta.
The first step — driven by initiative, not coincidence
Unlike many others, Armida did not come to Gilesta through job ads or recommendations — she initiated the first contact herself.
“I discovered Gilesta through a project that was important to my hometown — the construction of the Tauragė Multifunctional Sports and Culture Center. I’m originally from Tauragė, so when I found out that this company would be building our city’s sports and culture center, I didn’t hesitate and called the project manager myself and said: ‘I want to work.’ That’s how this company became my first workplace — and I became part of the team,” she says.
From theory to real life
Like many young specialists, Armida’s first weeks on site were intense and full of new experiences.
“When I started working, I quickly realized that reality is very different from what we learn in lectures, so the first week was a real challenge. The project manager helped a lot — patiently teaching me and helping me integrate quickly. While some things that once seemed difficult have now become easier, construction work brings new lessons and challenges every day,” Armida says.
Over time, her responsibilities grew — from Project Engineer to Construction Site Manager.
A job with no two identical days
Asked what her working day looks like, Armida answers very directly — there simply is no typical day.
“Describing a typical day or week on site is almost impossible, because no two days are the same. The true charm of construction lies in the fact that every morning you arrive at work without knowing what the day will bring. That unpredictability is exactly what makes this job so interesting,” she explains.
Why Gilesta?
When asked what motivates her the most, Armida first mentions trust and the working environment.
“I work at Gilesta because it was the first company that believed in me. I’ve never felt undervalued here. It’s a place where people not only teach you, but are genuinely interested in your insights,” she says.
But the biggest motivation is the result itself.
“What inspires me the most is what I see on site every day — all the processes and the building rising right in front of your eyes. Seeing a real result and knowing you contributed to it is the best motivation,” Armida adds.
Construction is not stereotypes — it’s about solutions
Armida speaks openly about perceptions of the construction sector, which are still often shaped by stereotypes.
“If you feel your heart beats to the rhythm of construction, don’t let outdated stereotypes stop you. Don’t be afraid of helmets, dirt, or loud discussions on site. In real construction, it’s not the volume of your voice that matters — it’s the strength of your arguments and the quality of your work.”
Advice for those just starting out
Armida is confident that the construction sector is open to those who want to learn and work.
“I would recommend Gilesta to every student or young professional starting their career and looking for a strong foundation. This is a company that isn’t afraid of young people with ‘zero’ experience — on the contrary, youthful energy is valued here. A major advantage is that Gilesta gives you the opportunity to get involved in large‑scale projects from the very first days. You are trusted, taught, and always supported here. It’s the best place for those who want to grow and develop,” she concludes.