4 answers
max
Student
1
Question
Asked
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how would it be if i would want to contribute in the career path of a construction worker?
i am in 10 grade love to build thing i have all b on my report card
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4 answers
Kara Guthro
Professor of Construction Management
3
Answers
Rockville, Maryland
Updated
Kara’s Answer
Hi, Max!
There are almost infinite career paths in construction, depending on your areas of interest and the type of work you're interested in!
If you are interested in a particular craft like carpentry, electrical wiring, concrete, plumbing, HVAC, or others, check out https://www.byf.org/explore/construction-careers/. There's a lot of information on different trades, including the skills and other essential requirements for each trade (They can vary widely!).
If you're interested in being or working for a general contractor, there are several different paths you can take: estimating (pricing materials and labor), field supervision (overseeing and coordinating the work of all the trades), project management (contract administration and financial management), safety (making sure all safety regulations are followed), virtual design and construction (using technology to model the construction project), scheduling (planning the steps required to complete the project and when each step has to be completed). Some things are common to many of these paths: math skills (particularly in algebra, trigonometry, and geometry), communication skills, ability to work in a team, time management, critical thinking, and problem-solving, to name a few.
There are almost infinite career paths in construction, depending on your areas of interest and the type of work you're interested in!
If you are interested in a particular craft like carpentry, electrical wiring, concrete, plumbing, HVAC, or others, check out https://www.byf.org/explore/construction-careers/. There's a lot of information on different trades, including the skills and other essential requirements for each trade (They can vary widely!).
If you're interested in being or working for a general contractor, there are several different paths you can take: estimating (pricing materials and labor), field supervision (overseeing and coordinating the work of all the trades), project management (contract administration and financial management), safety (making sure all safety regulations are followed), virtual design and construction (using technology to model the construction project), scheduling (planning the steps required to complete the project and when each step has to be completed). Some things are common to many of these paths: math skills (particularly in algebra, trigonometry, and geometry), communication skills, ability to work in a team, time management, critical thinking, and problem-solving, to name a few.
Harry Moats
Vice-President
23
Answers
Woodstock, Georgia
Updated
Harry’s Answer
There are plenty of opportunities for young people to get in the construction industry you just need to decide on what trade fits your interests. Then look for either a tech school that has programs for that particular trade or industry related training programs that are offered.
Hi Harry, do you have any recommendations on how Max can explore different trades and related training?
Sharyn Grose, Admin
Niha D
Physical Therapist
60
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Niha’s Answer
I am not in the construction business, but from what I understand, I would look into building up 3 areas of yourself:
1) Your physicality. Construction workers have unusual hours and have to lift and move heavy items pretty repeatedly. Get used to stretching yourself out in the mornings and evenings to protect your body in the long term alongside strengthening and endurance.
2) Mental. Some workers can spend extended periods of time away from family. It can get lonely sometimes from what I have heard from construction workers. Make sure you can manage yourself and are okay with being by yourself sometimes.
3) Technical training. Construction workers have to be trained in working the equipment, and can advance by being trained in leadership/supervisory roles, and by knowing the technological advancements of construction. I recommend looking into if there are ways to get trained in equipment after getting a driver's license even before graduating high school, which could give you a leg up!
1) Your physicality. Construction workers have unusual hours and have to lift and move heavy items pretty repeatedly. Get used to stretching yourself out in the mornings and evenings to protect your body in the long term alongside strengthening and endurance.
2) Mental. Some workers can spend extended periods of time away from family. It can get lonely sometimes from what I have heard from construction workers. Make sure you can manage yourself and are okay with being by yourself sometimes.
3) Technical training. Construction workers have to be trained in working the equipment, and can advance by being trained in leadership/supervisory roles, and by knowing the technological advancements of construction. I recommend looking into if there are ways to get trained in equipment after getting a driver's license even before graduating high school, which could give you a leg up!
Peter Yeung
Data Analytics
3
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Peter’s Answer
Fantastic future job prospects await you! Think about exploring vocational training programs once you've completed high school. Aim to acquire recognized professional qualifications that highlight your unique skills, making you a sought-after individual. Establish connections with professionals in the industry you're interested in and seek their guidance on how to kick-start your career.
You might also want to consider securing a summer job with a local builder in your vicinity.
You might also want to consider securing a summer job with a local builder in your vicinity.