12 answers
Jozlyn
Student
Wilmington, North Carolina
1
Question
Asked
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Construction management
How can I hands on experience and access to internships for Construction Management.
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12 answers
Isabel Dominguez
Student
137
Answers
Corning, California
Updated
Isabel’s Answer
Hi Jozlyn!
To get some hands-on experience in Construction Management, try starting with entry-level jobs like a construction assistant or laborer. This way, you can learn right at the job site. Consider joining a community college or trade school program that offers internships or co-ops, as many schools have partnerships with local companies. You can also look for internships on websites like Indeed, Handshake, or LinkedIn. Don’t hesitate to contact construction firms directly to ask about shadowing or internship opportunities. Volunteering with groups like Habitat for Humanity is another great way to gain skills and meet people. Networking with professionals and attending local trade events can also help. Keep curious and continue learning!
To get some hands-on experience in Construction Management, try starting with entry-level jobs like a construction assistant or laborer. This way, you can learn right at the job site. Consider joining a community college or trade school program that offers internships or co-ops, as many schools have partnerships with local companies. You can also look for internships on websites like Indeed, Handshake, or LinkedIn. Don’t hesitate to contact construction firms directly to ask about shadowing or internship opportunities. Volunteering with groups like Habitat for Humanity is another great way to gain skills and meet people. Networking with professionals and attending local trade events can also help. Keep curious and continue learning!
Mary Corder Dugie
Capital estimator, Cost Control, Document control, mechanical planner
20
Answers
Updated
Mary’s Answer
Most larger companies will not allow anyone on job under 18 due to insurance liability. Don't let that discourage you though, there are other ways to connect with companies, in addition to what others have suggested here.
Most construction associations have student memberships at a discounted rate. They also let you come to a couple meetings as a guest. These associations will allow you to meet contractors in your area, learn about the industry and different paths you can take as a CM and understand better the expectations of that role depending on the type of company you go to work for. Recommended AGC (Associated General Contractors of America), ABC (Associated Builders and Contractors), ASA (American Subcontractors Association) or NAWIC (National Association of Women in Construction)
I've an AS in CM, but I didn't go to school to get it until after working in construction for several years and going through an apprenticeship classroom training. You will not get a superintendent or construction management position without field experience, there is too much risk. So try to figure out which trade you would like to start with, and which part of the industry you want to work in.
What I mean when I say that is do you want to do residential / home building, commercial building or industrial work? There will be more money in the industrial work, but it is equivalent to the risk of working in some facilities.
Do you want to work for a general contractor, or a specialty trades contractor? This question will most likely be guided by the trade that you would like to pursue.
Check for local associations that me in your area and contact them to attend as a guest. The information should all be found on the association website.
Research the different kinds of contractors and what trade they perform
Research different construction industries. Consider what type of facilities you have in your area and which construction type is more common
Most construction associations have student memberships at a discounted rate. They also let you come to a couple meetings as a guest. These associations will allow you to meet contractors in your area, learn about the industry and different paths you can take as a CM and understand better the expectations of that role depending on the type of company you go to work for. Recommended AGC (Associated General Contractors of America), ABC (Associated Builders and Contractors), ASA (American Subcontractors Association) or NAWIC (National Association of Women in Construction)
I've an AS in CM, but I didn't go to school to get it until after working in construction for several years and going through an apprenticeship classroom training. You will not get a superintendent or construction management position without field experience, there is too much risk. So try to figure out which trade you would like to start with, and which part of the industry you want to work in.
What I mean when I say that is do you want to do residential / home building, commercial building or industrial work? There will be more money in the industrial work, but it is equivalent to the risk of working in some facilities.
Do you want to work for a general contractor, or a specialty trades contractor? This question will most likely be guided by the trade that you would like to pursue.
Mary recommends the following next steps:
Phill Pezo
Industrial Design
103
Answers
Nutley, New Jersey
Updated
Phill’s Answer
Hey Jozlyn,
It is great that you are thinking of ways to get into the field that you are interested in. Construction can be a great one to learn many different skills that can be practical outside of your work day as well. It seems like you are looking to aim high for a management position, but in order to know what you are managing, the best way to start to go about this is an entry level job. Most construction companies will start new people in demolition. It is a great way for workers to get used to the heavy work load, get a feel for the work environment and pace, and to learn from the construction workers. It is also a great way to get used to the tools and layouts of houses. In a sense, reverse engineering would help one understand how it was constructed. While you do this, work your hardest, take care of your physical health, and show you are eager to progress. If you stand out from the rest, you will be the person they want to level up. Once you do, you will most likely find yourself assisting complete smaller tasks with one of the construction workers. Make sure to be intuitive, and to ask a reasonable amount of questions. Once they send you to do a specific task on your own, do everything you can to indeed do it on your own. They see that you are ready, so trust that you can figure it out. Eventually you will step up to construction, and then management. Each step of the way will help you progress and grow to be able to understand what it is you are managing once you get to the management position. For now, look for local construction companies that are hiring or taking apprentices. Know that if a company does not have opportunities to get a higher position, still try to get experience there that can than be used to get another job elsewhere.
Best of luck on your journey!
It is great that you are thinking of ways to get into the field that you are interested in. Construction can be a great one to learn many different skills that can be practical outside of your work day as well. It seems like you are looking to aim high for a management position, but in order to know what you are managing, the best way to start to go about this is an entry level job. Most construction companies will start new people in demolition. It is a great way for workers to get used to the heavy work load, get a feel for the work environment and pace, and to learn from the construction workers. It is also a great way to get used to the tools and layouts of houses. In a sense, reverse engineering would help one understand how it was constructed. While you do this, work your hardest, take care of your physical health, and show you are eager to progress. If you stand out from the rest, you will be the person they want to level up. Once you do, you will most likely find yourself assisting complete smaller tasks with one of the construction workers. Make sure to be intuitive, and to ask a reasonable amount of questions. Once they send you to do a specific task on your own, do everything you can to indeed do it on your own. They see that you are ready, so trust that you can figure it out. Eventually you will step up to construction, and then management. Each step of the way will help you progress and grow to be able to understand what it is you are managing once you get to the management position. For now, look for local construction companies that are hiring or taking apprentices. Know that if a company does not have opportunities to get a higher position, still try to get experience there that can than be used to get another job elsewhere.
Best of luck on your journey!
Not every manager know what it is to be in-field. Not every construction manager used there hands on project.
While starting from demolition is honorable start to management, that rarely happens.
Oleg Kushnerov
Marty Meyer
General Manager
62
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Marty’s Answer
Companies bring in interns for good reason - 1. They are "free" employees who do low skilled work and 2. They get a chance to evaluate interns for potential paid positions.
I interned for 2 years while I was in college. I was paid minimum wage in the same type of job for my next 2 college years. When I finished my education, I was offered a well paid, full time, position by a well known organization. My career has only grown from there.
You get out what you put in - internships offer you a chance to gain skills, get a reputation, and advance your career.
Best of luck to you - Marty
I interned for 2 years while I was in college. I was paid minimum wage in the same type of job for my next 2 college years. When I finished my education, I was offered a well paid, full time, position by a well known organization. My career has only grown from there.
You get out what you put in - internships offer you a chance to gain skills, get a reputation, and advance your career.
Best of luck to you - Marty
Elainne Tavares
Architect and interior designer
4
Answers
Rio de Janeiro, State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Updated
Elainne’s Answer
Getting hands-on experience in Construction Management is all about combining formal learning with proactive networking and exposure to real projects. Start by connecting with your professors and career services—they often have industry contacts and can recommend you for internships. Join professional associations like the CMAA (Construction Management Association of America) or local construction groups; many offer student memberships and volunteer opportunities.
Look for part-time or summer jobs, even in entry-level site roles, to understand workflows on the ground.
Attend industry events, site tours, and workshops to meet professionals and learn how projects are managed in real time.
The more you show initiative and willingness to learn, the more likely industry professionals will give you a chance to get involved.
Look for part-time or summer jobs, even in entry-level site roles, to understand workflows on the ground.
Attend industry events, site tours, and workshops to meet professionals and learn how projects are managed in real time.
The more you show initiative and willingness to learn, the more likely industry professionals will give you a chance to get involved.
Elisée KANGNI
General Director
1
Answer
Cotonou, Littoral Department, Benin
Updated
Elisée’s Answer
If you want real experience in Construction Management, here’s the roadmap I’d give you:
1. Start on-site – don’t wait for a big title. Ask to shadow site supervisors or assist with basic tasks. Being present where the work happens is the best school.
2. Seek internships directly – go to construction companies, even small ones, and introduce yourself. Tell them you want to learn. Many opportunities aren’t advertised.
3. Build relationships – talk to engineers, project managers, and foremen. Ask for mentorship. A single connection can open doors.
4. Take every chance seriously – whether it’s one day on a site or a full internship, show discipline, punctuality, and willingness to learn. That’s how you get invited back.
5. Grow step by step – don’t rush. Every experience, no matter how small, builds your foundation as a future construction manager.
Remember: this field rewards commitment and consistency. If you show up eager to learn, people will notice—and they’ll trust you with bigger responsibilities.
KANGNI Élisée
1. Start on-site – don’t wait for a big title. Ask to shadow site supervisors or assist with basic tasks. Being present where the work happens is the best school.
2. Seek internships directly – go to construction companies, even small ones, and introduce yourself. Tell them you want to learn. Many opportunities aren’t advertised.
3. Build relationships – talk to engineers, project managers, and foremen. Ask for mentorship. A single connection can open doors.
4. Take every chance seriously – whether it’s one day on a site or a full internship, show discipline, punctuality, and willingness to learn. That’s how you get invited back.
5. Grow step by step – don’t rush. Every experience, no matter how small, builds your foundation as a future construction manager.
Remember: this field rewards commitment and consistency. If you show up eager to learn, people will notice—and they’ll trust you with bigger responsibilities.
KANGNI Élisée
Derek Lambert
Construction Inspection Supervisor
1
Answer
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Updated
Derek’s Answer
Jozlyn, starting early and asking good questions is a great way to show your interest, ambition, and confidence! You're definitely on the right track. Construction and its trades are very hands-on, so it's great if you're the kind of person who learns by doing and watching others. Every day on a construction site offers many chances to grow and learn. Be like a sponge and soak up as much as you can. Try not to get distracted by chatting or using your phone. Instead, be ready to jump in and focus on what your team is doing and why.
Instead of internships, which are often unpaid, look for a job in the trade fields you're interested in. This way, you can earn money while learning all about construction.
Keep up your enthusiasm and confidence! You’ve got this!
Be the Sponge
Observe & Understand whats going on and why.
Instead of internships, which are often unpaid, look for a job in the trade fields you're interested in. This way, you can earn money while learning all about construction.
Keep up your enthusiasm and confidence! You’ve got this!
Derek recommends the following next steps:
Oleg Kushnerov
Construction Project Manager
13
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Oleg’s Answer
In big cities, many large companies offer internships. These opportunities help companies save money and assess potential new hires. As Isabel suggests, search job boards for "construction internship" opportunities; some will focus on carpentry, while others may be about management.
When applying, write a strong cover letter explaining why the company should choose you. Share your reasons and tell your story. Provide an example of how the company's mentorship has helped past interns become leaders within the organization.
Getting an internship is similar to applying for college. It's an investment in your future.
When applying, write a strong cover letter explaining why the company should choose you. Share your reasons and tell your story. Provide an example of how the company's mentorship has helped past interns become leaders within the organization.
Getting an internship is similar to applying for college. It's an investment in your future.
Christopher Adeniji
Architect | Entrepreneur | Technocrat
50
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Christopher’s Answer
Hi Jozlyn,
Great question. One of the best ways to get hands-on experience in construction management is to start where you are and be proactive. I remember reaching out to my uncle, who is a contractor, and asking if I could join him on site visits. He agreed, and I spent about two months visiting construction sites, observing, and sometimes helping with basic supervision. It wasn’t paid, but it gave me valuable insight into how things work on the ground.
You can try something similar by contacting local contractors, builders, or even project managers and asking if you can tag along or assist. Also, keep an eye out for student internships, join construction-related groups in school, and attend industry events when you can. The key is to start small, show genuine interest, and let the experience build from there.
Great question. One of the best ways to get hands-on experience in construction management is to start where you are and be proactive. I remember reaching out to my uncle, who is a contractor, and asking if I could join him on site visits. He agreed, and I spent about two months visiting construction sites, observing, and sometimes helping with basic supervision. It wasn’t paid, but it gave me valuable insight into how things work on the ground.
You can try something similar by contacting local contractors, builders, or even project managers and asking if you can tag along or assist. Also, keep an eye out for student internships, join construction-related groups in school, and attend industry events when you can. The key is to start small, show genuine interest, and let the experience build from there.
Harry Moats
Vice-President
29
Answers
Woodstock, Georgia
Updated
Harry’s Answer
First you would have to have finished high school. You will need to start at the bottom and try to get a job in the office of one of many construction companies and or general contractors. At the same time you can work on furthering your education through night classes which are offered at a number of small colleges and or tech schools that offer degree programs in construction management. Show professionalism, commitment, dedication and a willingness to work hard and you will go a long way.
Alex Brown
Manager
7
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Alex’s Answer
Try reaching out to local contractors or project managers and offer to shadow them for a few weeks — even unpaid at first. Many small firms are open to letting students or newcomers help with site visits, documentation, or scheduling. Also, check your university’s career center and local construction associations; they often have internship boards and networking events where you can meet people in the field.
Alan Hester, MSA, PMP
Sr. Financial Project Manager & Accountant
9
Answers
Las Vegas, Nevada
Updated
Alan’s Answer
If you want to get into construction management, start getting hands-on experience now. Volunteer with groups like Habitat for Humanity or help out on small building projects in your community — they’ll train you, and you’ll learn real skills. Let your teachers, family, and friends know you’re interested so they can connect you with people in the industry. Even simple summer jobs or part-time work on a construction site can teach you a lot. Take any classes your school offers in shop, drafting, or CAD, and use free resources online to learn about tools, safety, and basic building practices.
When you do get an opportunity, show up on time, work hard, and be willing to help with anything. Ask questions and pay attention to how things get done — that’s how you build trust and a good reputation. Companies remember reliable people, and those connections can lead to internships or full-time jobs later. Starting early gives you a huge head start when it comes time to apply for construction management programs or jobs.
When you do get an opportunity, show up on time, work hard, and be willing to help with anything. Ask questions and pay attention to how things get done — that’s how you build trust and a good reputation. Companies remember reliable people, and those connections can lead to internships or full-time jobs later. Starting early gives you a huge head start when it comes time to apply for construction management programs or jobs.
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Jozlyn