Getting Started With a Career in the Construction Industry

It can be difficult to determine how to proceed when pursing a career in the construction industry. However, it's not as complicated as it seems—with some construction management training and a few years of on-the-job experience, the industry would be wide open to his son's choosing.

That may seem like basic advice, so here are more details. It is important to know what field you would like to work in. If you are young and unsure, you could start out as a laborer for a construction company. This would help you become familiar with the atmosphere of a construction job site. If you take note of your surroundings, gain understanding of the processes and sequences of a project, learn everything you can, and stay productive, you will quickly advance.

Another option is to join an apprenticeship program. There are many on the market, and they can often be found through construction associations, trade unions, and tech schools. This can be a good option for someone who has chosen a trade to enter. Some states have apprenticeship programs that allow high school students to work part-time for a construction company and receive credits while learning the trade.

Whatever way you choose to get your hands-on experience, try to seek out professionals who are exceptionally skilled in their trade. Learn all you can from them, including any tricks of the trade. Having a mentor, especially of this caliber, will be one of your most valuable assets. It is important to use your time with them wisely, as it is limited.

It is to your benefit to have a basic understanding of the other trades, including excavation, concrete, carpentry, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, masonry, and roofing. It will take time to learn by taking note and asking questions along the way, but it will add value to your expertise.

As mentioned earlier, construction management education can elevate your career to a much higher level, especially when it comes to commercial construction. Education opportunities are more accessible than ever. Online project management courses can be an option for those with a full-time job in the field. Studying at your selective time frame can help you obtain a certificate in construction management. Contractor associations, trade schools, and colleges are also offer different course levels and degrees.

Knowledge of the basic concepts of tools and the language of project management is useful in projects of all types and sizes. Scheduling, coordinating subcontractors’ materials and methods, tracking project cost, implementing quality control measures, and communicating through technology using management software and apps are all part of the innerworkings of a construction project.

If you choose a career in construction, know there are many opportunities for people with your skill set. It may take some time, but stay determined and you will succeed.