Coen Construction workers assemble on the job site each day before dawn, fueled by coffee and camaraderie. They prepare tools and materials, attend safety briefings, and take precautions to ensure a productive work environment.
After lunch, they push through the afternoon heat or cold and strive to meet deadlines and milestones. They also clean up the work area and check in with their supervisor before leaving for the day.
Construction is one of the most hands-on skills and requires patience to master. Most individuals will gradually pick up this physically demanding field over time as they attend classes, participate in apprenticeships, and receive on-the-job training.
However, how hard the process of learning construction is for an individual will largely depend on the level of knowledge they bring to the training process, the method they select for study, and their ultimate aspirations for using this in-demand skill set. For example, those with a strong background in math and a basic understanding of CAD software are likely to find the learning process much easier than those who do not.
Aspiring professionals will need to learn how to read and understand blueprints, work with a variety of tools, make precise measurements, and address unforeseen developments on the job site such as weather delays or hidden structural issues. Additionally, specialized trades like carpentry require specific skill sets that take time to learn.
In addition to finding a mentor, it is helpful to seek out other resources like books or YouTube videos that teach basic construction techniques. These free resources can provide a low-stakes way to explore this industry without a substantial financial investment. For those who are interested in advancing their construction knowledge, bootcamps and certificate programs are available that provide more comprehensive training.
Another way to learn about construction is to visit a hardware store and interact with the materials and tools that are used. This will help you get a feel for the process and understand what to expect when you begin your career in construction. Additionally, many online educators offer self-paced construction courses that allow learners to study at their own pace, and these programs are often free for beginners. Self-paced classes vary in length, ranging from just a few hours to several weeks or months. You can find a selection of these on-demand construction courses through top educators such as Udemy or Coursera.
It’s a Fast-Growing Industry
Construction is an industry that’s rapidly growing and thriving, particularly in China. The country’s rapid urbanization is due in part to policies that facilitate the speedy construction of new buildings and infrastructure projects. This includes a simplification of regulations and an emphasis on centralized funding and streamlined processes.
Those with construction skills are in high demand, and the job market is competitive. However, the industry lost a million and a half jobs in the housing crash of 2008 and is still clawing its way back. Moreover, the industry suffers from a lack of young people entering the workforce. With more emphasis on four-year college degrees over trade schools and vocational training, fewer younger people are choosing to become carpenters or electricians.
As a result, the industry struggles to keep up with current demand and is facing a labor shortage. Many of the skilled jobs in construction require a minimum of an associate’s degree, but some only need a high school diploma.
Many construction companies are struggling to find qualified workers, which is hampering project timelines and causing delays. As the industry struggles to keep up with demands, many are turning to offsite construction to expedite the process and meet deadlines. Offsite construction refers to the fabrication of building components in a controlled factory setting before transporting them to the site for installation. This can include volumetric modules where entire 3D sections of a building are constructed in the factory and transported to the site for final assembly, or panelized systems where flat panels for walls, roofs, and floors are fabricated offsite and assembled onsite.
Using advances in technology, including building information modeling and automation, offsite construction offers higher standards of precision and efficiency than traditional methods. By utilizing offsite manufacturing in construction, companies can reduce the time it takes to build and deliver a building and save money by reducing material waste. With advancements like cold-formed steel framing, offsite manufacturing can also be a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option. This is especially important for the future of global construction as urbanization continues to expand and increase demand for housing and infrastructure.
It’s a Career That Offers Advancement
Construction professionals who work diligently to improve their craft can easily advance their careers. Specialized training in trades like electrical work, masonry, and carpentry can make you an invaluable member of the team. Plus, continuing education in industry trends like Building Information Modeling (BIM), drone piloting, and augmented reality is increasingly important as well.
As your skills improve, you’ll find it easier to handle advancing projects and deadlines. You’ll also become more efficient, which makes you a valuable asset to your employer. You can even apply your knowledge of best practices to other aspects of the job, such as scheduling or project management, to increase your value.
In addition to honing your craft, building strong professional relationships is essential for career advancement in any industry. For instance, if you’re a contractor, attending industry conferences and collaborating with other contractors can open doors to new projects and mentorship opportunities.
Additionally, many people who choose to pursue a career in the construction industry get started by going to trade school or an apprenticeship. This gives aspiring contractors the opportunity to practice their craft on a day-to-day basis while gaining hands-on experience. Apprenticeship programs typically last between 1-4 years and can be a great way for aspiring construction professionals to learn the ins and outs of their craft.
Construction workers are also able to choose their own path to success, which gives them the freedom to switch specialties and explore different parts of the field until they find their niche. For example, there is a wide variety of roles on a commercial site, including surveyors, painters, carpenters, plumbers, and electricians. As a result, it’s not uncommon for a person to move up the ladder in one of these positions before becoming a general manager or supervisor.
As the housing market recovers, there is a renewed demand for construction workers. So, if you’re considering a career in the industry, now is an ideal time to start looking for a job. Start with a simple search online to find local construction jobs near you and then consider how you can enhance your career through on-the-job training, apprenticeships, and industry-leading certifications.
It’s a Healthy Career
Construction work is physically demanding, and the high-stress environments can take their toll on a person’s mental health. This is especially true for those who don’t make a conscious effort to prioritize their physical and mental well-being by exercising regularly, eating healthy foods, and getting enough rest. These habits can help prevent chronic conditions that can destabilize a construction career as workers age.
Many workers in the construction industry struggle with a variety of mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, and stress. The stigma around discussing mental health issues in this male-dominated profession makes it harder for workers to reach out for treatment or support when needed. These challenges, coupled with a lack of workplace culture that encourages open communication, may contribute to higher suicide rates in the industry than in other sectors.
Workers in construction must also contend with hearing loss caused by the repeated use of loud equipment on the job, like jackhammers and electric saws. This can cause tinnitus and even permanent hearing loss, so it’s important for construction workers to protect their ears.
Construction workers must also be mindful of musculoskeletal injuries. The constant movement of heavy machinery and prolonged sitting can lead to back pain and other joint problems. Regular stretching and utilizing proper ergonomics can help reduce these aches and pains. Additionally, taking the time to learn new skills for personal hobbies outside of work can keep workers’ brains and bodies sharp.
Another issue faced by many construction workers is the risk of suicide. This is a serious issue that can be exacerbated by factors like drug or alcohol abuse, a lack of social support, or having access to lethal weapons at work. A strong support system at work can help mitigate these risks by normalizing the discussion of mental health and creating a safe space for employees to share their struggles.
While there are a number of reasons why construction is a great career choice, it’s also crucial that workers have the tools and resources they need to thrive on the job. This includes seeking therapy or other mental health services when necessary and prioritizing their health, both physically and mentally.