Building a Career in Construction Management
Leadership. Problem Sovling. High Pay.
If any of those three things pique your interest, then stick around for this blog, where we break down everything you want to know about starting a career in construction management.
What is Construction Management?
Construction management is an awesome and rewarding career where you oversee the planning, execution, and completion of projects. As a construction manager, you’ll lead teams, manage budgets, and ensure projects meet deadlines and safety standards.
If you’re interested in leadership roles in construction, here’s a detailed guide on how to become a construction manager, starting in high school and continuing through every step of your journey.
Step 1: High School Preparation
If you are still in high school, this is where you start. Preparing yourself in the best way you can control before you step on a jobsite can go a long way.
This is why the classes you take in high school can be so important. Here are a few types of classes that could help you excel in construction.
• Math and Science: We know that math and science aren’t always everyone favorite subjects, but in construction, it is crucial. Construction managers need a strong grasp of math, particularly geometry and algebra, to calculate measurements and understand structural designs. Physics will also help you understand the forces involved in construction.
• Business and Management Classes: If available, business or management courses can give you a head start on understanding project management, budgets, and leadership.
• Technical Education: Shop classes or any technical education that focuses on building, mechanics, or design will provide hands-on experience with tools and concepts you’ll use in the field.
Clubs and Extracurricular Activities
Outside of the classroom, there are a number of things you can do in high school to really make yourself stand out.
• Student Government or Leadership Clubs: Since construction managers are responsible for leading teams, joining leadership clubs or student government can help you develop your leadership and organizational skills. They also might help you stand out as someone who actively searches for leadership roles.
• Engineering or Building CLubs: While not every school offers something directly related to construction, robotics, manufacturing, woodworking, etc., there are other possible options to help you gain skills.
Step 2: Gaining Early Experience
Part-Time Jobs and Summer Internships
Now, if you are over 18 and out of high school, here are the best ways to start getting that experience you will need.
Construction Laborer: Working as a laborer during summer breaks or after school is an excellent way to gain first-hand experience. You’ll learn how construction sites operate, understand various roles, and become familiar with tools and materials.
Internships with Contractors: Look for internship opportunities with local contractors or construction firms. Even if it’s a general administrative position, it will give you insight into the business side of construction and project management.
Even if you do not see a posted position, call the company and see if they are interested! Many contractors are smaller operations and may need to be contacted.
Step 3: Pursuing Education and Formal Training
Unlike some careers in civil construction, you do need some additional training/schooling for construction amazement. Which makes sense given how important the position is.
College or Trade School
Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management: Most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in construction management, civil engineering, or architecture. These programs cover things like project management, cost estimating, contract law, and building codes.
Alternative Paths: If college isn’t your immediate goal, consider a vocational program that focuses on construction or management skills. This can be a more affordable and faster route into the field, with the option to continue your education later.
Certifications
Safety is huge in construction, so having the certification of the OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) will make you more competitive when applying for entry-level positions. Pursuing a project management certification, such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management), will demonstrate your understanding of managing complex projects.
Step 4: Starting in Entry-Level Positions
You do not just jump into a full-on construction assignment position. It is usually best to start as something else and learn the flow of the jobsite.
This makes you a better manager and gives a more well-rounded approach.
Entry-level positions:
Assistant project manager
Field Engineer
Construction coordinator
These types of roles give you hands-on experience in overseeing portions of construction projects. You’ll assist senior project managers and get to see how large-scale projects are executed. As an assistant, you’ll help with everything from scheduling to budget tracking, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how projects are managed from start to finish.
Step 5: Becoming a Certified Construction Manager
Gaining Experience
After you have made it into the industry, it is time to gain experience leading teams and making decisions.
Work Experience: To qualify for certification, you’ll need several years of experience in the construction field. Typically, five to seven years of experience is required, which you’ll gain by working your way up from entry-level positions.
Supervise Projects: Once you’ve gained enough experience, you’ll start taking on bigger responsibilities, such as overseeing entire projects, managing budgets, and making critical decisions on-site.
Step 6: Advancing in Your Career
Climbing the Ladder
With your experience and certifications, you can now apply for roles as a project manager, where you’ll be responsible for every aspect of a construction project. As you gain more experience and successfully complete projects, you can advance to senior roles such as director of construction, overseeing multiple projects, and managing large teams.
Continuing Education
Master’s Degree: Some construction managers choose to pursue a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or a specialized master’s in construction management to qualify for higher leadership roles.
Staying Up-to-Date: The construction industry is always evolving, with new technologies, materials, and regulations emerging regularly. Continuing education and attending industry conferences can keep you ahead of the curve.
Starting Your Own Company: With enough experience, many construction managers choose to start their own construction or consulting firms. This allows you to manage your own projects and expand your influence in the industry.
Leading the Way in Construction
Becoming a construction manager is a journey that requires years of dedication, education, and hands-on experience. By starting early in high school, pursuing the right education, and gaining valuable work experience, you can build a fulfilling career in construction management.
With opportunities for growth, specialization, and even entrepreneurship, the field offers endless possibilities for those ready to lead in the ever-evolving world of construction.