What Education Do You Need For Construction?

Are you curious about how to break into the construction industry and what kind of education is necessary? This blog will guide you through the essential steps to kickstart your construction career, as well as the importance of experience and the key to ensuring long-term career growth. Stay tuned to discover more!

How Can You Get Your First Break in Construction?

One of the most common questions I receive is, “How do I get my first shot in the construction industry?” Many people wonder what kind of education or experience is required to enter this field. Let’s take a look at the current state of the construction industry to better understand the challenges and opportunities available.

The Current State of the Construction Industry

The construction industry is facing significant challenges. Due to economic shifts, population changes, and global supply chain issues, North America needs to increase its production capacity. However, we are struggling with a massive labor shortage. For every five people retiring from the construction sector, only one person is entering. This shortage is creating a high demand for workers, yet the industry isn’t recruiting or training effectively enough to fill the gap. Despite this, many companies still have stringent hiring requirements, often demanding years of experience and advanced qualifications, which don’t always align with the current labor market. The reality is, if you’re interested in construction, companies need you, but the industry’s approach to hiring might not reflect that yet.

What Education Do You Need for Construction?

The truth is, you don’t necessarily need a degree to be successful in construction. Many individuals in this field are highly successful without formal education. However, having a diploma or certificate can sometimes be the key to getting hired by a company. Here’s a breakdown of your options:

1. High School Diploma or GED: At a minimum, most construction jobs will require a high school diploma or GED. This is an essential qualification to get your foot in the door.
2. Associate’s Degree: If you want to demonstrate that you can handle challenging work and meet academic expectations, an associate’s degree can be beneficial. It can help show potential employers that you’re capable of completing tasks and following through on commitments.
3. Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree in construction management or a related field is often preferred for higher-level roles, such as project engineers, assistant project managers, or assistant superintendents. This degree can open doors to internships and entry-level positions, which can lead to career advancement.
4. Certifications and Apprenticeships: Professional certifications and on-the-job training, like apprenticeships, are invaluable for gaining practical experience. If you choose not to pursue a college degree, apprenticeships or certifications are a great way to learn hands-on skills while working your way up in the industry.

How to Present Your Experience

If you have relevant experience, whether from another industry or from informal work like building with your family, make sure to present it in a way that aligns with the construction field. For example, if you led a construction crew or managed a project, describe those roles with industry-relevant language on your resume and LinkedIn profile. This ensures recruiters understand the full scope of your experience.

Key Tips to Succeed in Construction

1. Get Your Foot in the Door: Whether through an apprenticeship, internship, or even an entry-level position, the key is to get into a construction company. Once you’re in, work hard, take on additional responsibilities, and impress your supervisors to climb the ranks.
2. Keep Learning: Construction is an ever-evolving field. Make sure you’re always learning, whether through formal education, certifications, or self-directed learning. If your company isn’t offering training, seek it out yourself.
3. Be Persistent: Whether you’re starting out as a laborer or an assistant, persistence is key. By consistently volunteering for new tasks and showing a strong work ethic, you can position yourself for promotions and greater opportunities.