The construction industry is a great place to start or further your career. It’s a stable industry with plenty of opportunities for growth. Plus, if you’re the handy type, it’s a perfect way to put your skills to good use. If you’re thinking about pursuing a career in construction, here are six steps you need to take:
1. Get training.
Many construction jobs require specialized skills and knowledge. The best way to get these is by enrolling in a trade school or apprenticeship program. Many different programs are available, so do your research and find one that’s right for you.
For example, if you want to be an electrician, you’ll need to complete an electrician apprenticeship. These programs typically last four years and include a mix of classroom instruction and on-the-job training.
Meanwhile, if you’re interested in becoming a carpenter, you can enroll in a carpentry program at a trade school. These programs usually last two or three years and will give you the skills and knowledge you need to start your career.
2. Get experience.
Once you have the necessary training, it’s time to get some experience under your belt. Many construction companies offer internships or entry-level positions. This is a great way to learn the ropes and see if construction is really the right industry for you.
For instance, if you’re interested in becoming a project manager, you might start out as an assistant project manager. This will give you a chance to learn about the construction process from start to finish and see if it’s something you’re interested in pursuing long-term.
In addition, many construction companies offer on-the-job training for entry-level employees. This is a great way to learn the ropes and get paid while you’re doing it.
3. Network.
It’s important to network in any industry, but it’s imperative in construction. Get to know other professionals in the industry and make connections. You never know when one of those connections might come in handy.
One way to network is to join a professional organization, such as the National Association of Home Builders or the American Institute of Architects. This will give you access to resources and networking opportunities.
In addition, attend industry events, such as trade shows and conferences. This is a great way to meet other professionals and learn about new trends in the industry.
4. Get certified.
While not all construction jobs require certification, it can give you a competitive edge. You can get many different types of certification, such as OSHA certification, which shows that you’re knowledgeable about safety standards.
On the other hand, you can also get an NCCCO tower crane certification, which proves that you’re qualified to operate a tower crane. This certification can be handy if you’re interested in working on construction projects that involve tall buildings.
In addition, many states require contractors to be licensed. If you’re interested in starting your own construction business, research the licensing requirements in your state.
5. Get insured.
You should also make sure you’re insured against any accidents or injuries that might occur while on the job. This is especially important if you’re working on a construction site.
You can get many different types of insurance, such as workers’ compensation and liability insurance. Talk to your employer about what kind of insurance they offer and make sure you’re covered.
Likewise, if one day you’re going to start your own construction business, be sure to get the right insurance for your company. This will protect you and your employees in case of any accidents or injuries.
6. Stay up-to-date on trends and technologies.
The construction industry is constantly changing, so it’s essential to stay up to date on the latest trends and technologies. This will help you be more competitive in the job market and better equipped to do your job well.
For instance, new construction methods and green building techniques are constantly being developed. Therefore, if you want to make sure you’re ahead of the curve, make an effort to stay up to date on these trends.
In addition, new construction technologies, such as 3D printing, are also becoming more popular. Be sure to familiarize yourself with these technologies so you can be ahead of the game.
Pursuing a career in construction can be a great way to use your hands and get paid to do it. It’s essential to do your research and take the necessary steps to be successful in the industry. Get training, gain experience, network effectively, get licensed and insured, and stay up to date on trends and technologies. Do all of this, and you’ll be well on your way to a profitable career in construction!