The construction industry offers many chances for advancement. Climbing the ladder may be a matter of experience, which could land you a supervisory position. Specialization in a specific area like masonry or steel work may command increased wages. Some jobs, like heavy machinery operator or building inspector, will likely require some type of certification. But obtaining voluntary certifications—such as Certified Lead Carpenter from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, or Concrete Flatwork Finisher and Technician from the American Concrete Institute—can also help you to earn higher pay. Plus, in the construction industry, you can earn while you learn—many companies will teach you multiple crafts and skills you while you’re working. And there’s always the option of going back to school for another relevant degree. Depending on your goals, an associate or bachelor degree, and certainly an advanced degree in construction management, will add to your earning potential.
“The Construction Industry is one of the most diverse industries in America today. Whether you have interests in building construction, infrastructure, or public utilities, there’s work to be done. Nowadays, the industry might not get the same attention as the ‘glamorous’ Tech Industry but, if you’re willing to put in the effort, you will find a fulfilling career creating things that you will be proud of and that will be appreciated by the public as well.”
Mario Bello
Assistant Project Manager, C.A.C. Industries Inc.
Construction workers are essential on every job. They may clean and level sites, excavate for foundations, handle building materials, operate equipment, apply grout through high powered sprayers, or help out carpenters, masons, or engineers. A good way to start out and get on-the-job training is in an employer-sponsored apprentice program.
“If you have good hand-eye coordination, then go into the trades. I know that may people would encourage highschoolers to go to college, but if you are so inclined, I would recommend joining one of the union trades and learning marketable tangible skills. I have worked in the field, and I have worked in management. My time working in the field was much more fulfilling.”
Adrian Zoodsma
Senior Environmental Engineer, Skanska USA Building
“The industry is limitless and filled with opportunities for whatever you desire to build. Whether it’s infrastructure, buildings, interior designs, bridges, tunnels, and more, the possibilities are endless. It’s important to soak in the knowledge of the people above you and your peers because there are many different ways and techniques of doing things. Forget the mindset of ‘there’s one way to do something.’ Every problem has many solutions and many different ways of achieving those solutions."
Mohamed Kotby
Assistant Super, C.A.C. Industries Inc.
Fast Facts about Builders
Augmented reality is affecting construction—in winning more projects, improving safety and facilitating team interaction.
Women are increasingly joining the construction workforce, in skilled trades all the way to the executive suite.
From AI and advanced intelligent materials to drones and robotics, the construction industry is building better and more sustainably.
Skilled trades let you follow your passion in a specialized way.
Infrastructure builds big to move people and products.
There are many paths to construction and many ways to get there.
Construction is going green every which way, every day.
You can use your skills, make good money, and do something meaningful.
