The construction trade is a rewarding and valued career. Reliable and skilled craftworkers are in high demand on construction sites around the country. Construction jobs require tradesmen to perform many physical tasks, both individually and as part of a team.
Questions to Ask
Before you begin or change career paths, ask yourself the following questions:
- Are you fit enough to carry out a variety of physical tasks?
- Do you enjoy working as a member of a team?
- Do you have excellent hand-eye coordination?
- Do you enjoy working outdoors in a variety of seasons?
- Do you enjoy having variety in your work experiences and responsibilities?
If these job requirements match the kind of work you enjoy, then the construction industry could be a great career choice.
Factors to Consider
The construction industry offers many opportunities to skilled laborers. The market is battling a labor shortage, so contractors and project managers are searching for hard-working individuals to staff job sites.
For most construction labor jobs, a high school diploma is the minimum education requirement. High school students searching for foundational trade skills and experience should consider vocational programs at their school. To further advance your trade skills, we encourage you to seek on-site training through part-time or summer employment.
Typically, construction workers with more education and training have the best job opportunities. For those out of high school looking for work, Tradesmen International can help you find work, with long-term stability and benefits.
There are many skilled trades to consider, but some of the most popular choices include:
Education and Training to Become a Construction Worker
Several educational options are available for those interested in construction. You can learn the trade on the job, attend a vocational school or obtain a degree from a college or university. Craftworkers often start as unskilled laborers to learn the basics of the trade, then refine their skills as their training progresses.
Trade schools offer courses covering the basics of construction trades. After your initial courses, you may continue your education through an apprenticeship program. Experienced construction craftworkers, or those seeking a management position, generally continue their education in a college or university to obtain a degree in construction engineering technology.