David Turner
Holy Family Cristo Rey High School ‘12 (Birmingham)
University of Alabama '16
Development and Construction Manager, Milestone Towers
Reston, VA
When chasing audacious dreams, one must face decisions which require and develop character, grit, and a desire for growth. For Cristo Rey alumni, those attributes flourish already in high school. The story of Birmingham native David Turner illustrates this formation.
Coming from a military family, 14 year old David considered embarking on the same path. High school was the next step in his journey, but that enrollment decision was determined by his mother. “She researched the Cristo Rey program and thought it would best prepare me for college, and even better yet, the workforce,” David recalled. “My mother decided to send me to Holy Family Cristo Rey because of the values and skills she knew I would gain.”
Without hesitation, David began his journey at Holy Family Cristo Rey, at the time located in Birmingham’s Ensley community.
He worked at Blue Cross Blue Shield for his freshman CWS placement, which was followed by Hoar Construction his sophomore year. When David walked through the doors of the privately held and industry recognized contractor as a young sophomore, he was unaware of the life changing experience ahead of him.
Once he earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama in 2016, David knew that he wanted to continue his career at Hoar Construction. He was hired as an Assistant Superintendent.
"Latitude Med Center Apartments was my first project out of college. I was building a 33-story high-rise apartment and overseeing interior rough-ins, which included overseeing the MEP systems (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Sprinkler system). Even though it was a logistical nightmare due to being in the heart of downtown Houston, it was my favorite project because of the exposure I gained to the industry.”
His gained exposure was followed by growing aspirations. He decided to take his career in a different direction. Although working for a general contractor building high rises and mixed-use retail was a rewarding career, the development process piqued he interest more.
Currently, David serves as the Development and Construction Manager at Milestone Towers, based in Reston, VA, which develops and manages thousands of wireless tower properties throughout the Mid-Atlantic. He plays an integral role in Milestone Towers’ site selection program, providing permitting and management support for the development and construction teams. David also supervises third-party consultants and engineers, oversees construction projects on-site, and coordinates wireless carrier installations and modifications.
"The opportunity to work for a developer in a managerial position allows me to use my business skills in an industry I am passionate about. What excites me most about this industry is the ability to impact the lives of my community for the better. I am able to contribute and be proud to make a difference that will last for generations to come.
My Cristo Rey experience helped steer me towards my current career path, allowing me to work in the construction industry.”