Construction Trades and Management

Do you like the idea of working in construction? Would you like to work in a supervisory position? If so, a career in construction management might be for you! Read on to learn more.

Are Construction Trades and Management For Me?

Working in construction management, you'll be involved in all aspects of structural and land developments. You might work on projects involving homes, industrial buildings, medical facilities, freeway overpasses or streets. You'll be in charge of overseeing most, if not all activities during these types of construction projects. If you're interested in construction management, it requires strong construction skills, in addition to personnel and project management abilities.

You might work as a general contractor, foreman, project manager or project engineer. Other titles might include constructor, construction superintendent or construction supervisor. If employed by a company, you will most likely work on a salary basis. You could also choose to become self-employed.

The outlook for job growth is good for construction managers. Employment of construction managers was projected to grow 17% from 2008-2018, faster than average, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov). Construction managers made an average annual salary of $94,240 in May 2010, according to the BLS.

How Do I Work in Construction Trades and Management?

Though you might be able to learn this trade through on-the-job training, academic programs are available in construction trade management and construction management. If you already possess an undergraduate degree, graduate degree programs such as a master's degree program in construction management exist. If you're interested in applying for a graduate program in this field, you'll be expected to have significant construction experience and a bachelor's degree in a related area.

Construction trades management and construction management programs are offered through 2-year and 4-year educational institutions. Programs typically start at the undergraduate certificate or undergraduate degree level, such as a bachelor's degree program in construction management. These types of programs provide you with the skills and knowledge to serve in a supervisory role. You'll most likely have coursework in scheduling, project management, electricity codes, cost estimation, safety procedures and analyzing plans.

As a graduate of a construction management program, you could also consider working at an architecture firm, engineering firm or another type of management position outside of the construction industry. You can also earn voluntary certification through the Construction Management Association of America (www.cmaa.com), a professional association for construction management students and professionals. You can also get certified through the American Institute of Constructors (www.aicnet.org).

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