Construction Jobs: Skills, Construction Training and Education

When deciding on a career, it may be difficult to choose among the myriad of options that are available to you. There are many opportunities in the construction industry, but in order to succeed in the industry, you may want to consider a vocational construction training program.

Working in Construction

The construction field is an excellent option for individuals who enjoy working with their hands and who love building things. The construction industry encompasses many different types of jobs. Construction specialists, electricians and plumbers all play a vital role in the creation of many types of buildings. A variety of opportunities are available to those interested in construction, and vocational programs are available to match.

Jobs in the Construction Field

You aren’t limited to one specific type of work in the construction field; rather, a host of opportunities are available for individuals who are interested in working in construction. Construction jobs may include (but are certainly not limited to) the following:
  • Civil engineering jobs: Civil engineers are involved in planning and building roads, tunnels, sewers, and highways.
  • Construction superintendent jobs: A construction superintendent coordinates and oversees construction activities of a given project.
  • Contracting jobs: General contractors are often required for the construction of homes, schools, and offices.
  • Electrician jobs: Electrical work is necessary in almost every type of construction. Installing lights, light fixtures, heating, and other electrical components are a few of an electrician's duties.
  • Plumbing jobs: Plumbers build and maintain water and sanitary systems for schools, offices, and homes. Trade contractors in plumbing often work for many construction companies at the same time.

Facts and Figures

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in construction are expected to enjoy robust growth over the next decade. Unlike other industries (which are expected to grow 11 percent in total), the construction field anticipates growth of approximately 16 percent. Employment in all areas of the construction industry is expected to grow, with specialty trades such as electricians and plumbers growing the quickest. Earnings in construction are higher than average for all combined industries, with pay raises according to tenure and training to be expected. In 2006, the average construction worker in the US earned over $20 per hour, with average weekly earnings of $781.

Education, Training and Experience

Vocational construction training can often help an individual succeed in the business, as well as secure higher pay upon entry in the field. Construction technical schools often have programs tailored to general construction or specialties like pipe fitting and plumbing.
 
If you're currently working in another field, but construction is where you would like to be, start with a technical training program. As construction jobs continue to grow, those with education and training will come out on top in terms of opportunity and pay.

Related Associations and Groups

The term "construction worker" is very general, but there are many related groups and associations for the various jobs that fall within the industry. The following professional associations and organizations often hold conferences and offer training:
  • Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA)
  • American Council for Construction Education (ACCE)
  • American Road and Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA)
  • Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC)
  • Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC)
  • National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
  • National Utility Contractors Association (NUCA)
  • Sealant, Waterproofing & Restoration Institute (SWRI).
Share |