Your career MATTERS. Choosing one that aligns with what you want in life, your interests, and skills is crucial.
Civil construction is an industry that will always be needed by the public and is constantly growing in scale.
If you have what it takes to help build the future of the country, A degree in civil construction could be the perfect path to a stable, well-paying, and impactful career.
Should YOU Major in Civil Construction?
The first question you should ask yourself when considering pursuing a career in civil construction is, will I enjoy this?
It is a long and rewarding road ahead, and being able to take joy in your work and studies can go a long way.
Civil construction might be the perfect fit if you enjoy problem-solving, working with your hands, or the idea of managing large-scale projects.
If you check these boxes, it could be for you:
✔️ You enjoy working on projects that make a visible impact.
✔️ You like a mix of hands-on work and strategic planning.
✔️ You are good at math, science, or technical skills.
✔️ You want a job that offers long-term stability and career growth.
What Can You Do with a Civil Construction Degree?
A major in civil construction opens the door to multiple career paths in infrastructure and project management. Here are some of the most common roles:
• Construction Manager: Oversees large construction projects, ensuring they stay on time and within budget.
• Estimator: Calculates costs for labor, materials, and equipment to plan a project’s budget.
• Field Engineer: Works on-site to manage technical aspects of construction projects.
How to Get Started in Civil Construction
1. Choose the Right Program
When looking for a college or trade school, consider:
• Associate vs. Bachelor’s Degree: An associate degree takes about two years and focuses on practical skills, while a bachelor’s degree (four years) includes more project management and engineering concepts.
• Accredited Programs: Look for schools with strong ties to the construction industry, offering internships and hands-on learning.
2. Get Hands-On Experience
Nothing beats real-world training. While in school, take advantage of one of these things if possible:
• Internships: Work with construction firms or public infrastructure projects.
• Part-Time Jobs: Entry-level roles in construction help you build skills and industry connections. Look for these in the summer when large companies bring on multiple interns or part-time people for the summer.
• Campus Organizations: One of the best ways to get started with zero experience would be things on your college campus. Many schools have construction or engineering clubs that provide networking opportunities.
3. Learn the Industry’s Technology
The construction industry is evolving, and today’s professionals use tools like:
• Building Information Modeling (BIM): A 3D modeling system for planning construction projects.
• Drones & GPS Surveying: Used to assess sites and improve project accuracy.
• Project Management Software: Programs like Procore, Primavera P6, and AutoCAD help streamline workflow.
What to Expect from a Career in Civil Construction
Civil construction is an extremely rewarding career, both financially and personally. They are jobs that are always in demand and needed in all corners of the country.
1. Job Security & High Demand
The U.S. needs skilled construction professionals to maintain and expand its infrastructure. Civil construction careers offer steady job growth and opportunities across the country.
2. Competitive Salaries
Your earnings depend on your role and experience, but here’s a general idea:
• Construction Manager: $80,000 – $120,000
• Estimator: $65,000 – $100,000
• Field Engineer: $60,000 – $90,000
3. Opportunities for Growth
With experience, you can move into senior roles such as project director or executive management or even start your own construction firm.
4. A Hands-On, Impactful Career
A degree in civil construction leads to a career where you see the results of your work, and not many people can say that! Whether it’s a new highway, a sports stadium, or a city skyline.
Are You Ready?
If you’re looking for a career that combines technical skills and problem-solving, majoring in civil construction could be the perfect fit.
Ready to get started? Look up schools with strong construction programs, and start building your future today!