Oh, how useful!

Many years ago, while on a cruise, my tablemates and I were introducing ourselves - where we lived, what kind of work we did, and some interesting personal data.  One endearing reaction to the profession of the insurance broker was "Oh, how useful!"

When was the last time someone in the construction industry reacted this way to a recent graduate from virtually any school of Architecture?  Exactly how 'useful' is the typical newbie intern?

Can they detail a stair?  Can they do a door schedule?  Can they develop a 3D model?  Do they know the right questions to ask when programming a space?  Do they know anything about standard contracts?  Most firms have expectations about how to best use these people.  It seems some schools 'get it', while many others are out of touch.

Is this just me?  Honestly, I doubt it.

This month's Architect magazine has a feature story: "Facing Up to the Numbers".  The gist of the article is that many schools are now adding business basics to the curriculum.  The story goes that this lack has held Architects back as they pursue business.  Probably true.  But how good are the schools overall in training the start-up fundamentals for what is an uphill trek to professional competence?

As an employer, where do you seek the most 'useful' employees?  I have favorites; I suspect you do too.  Care to share?