Careers in construction teach valuable skills you’ll have for a lifetime and provide a path toward a secure retirement. It’s no surprise that nearly 770,000 people in the United States pursue careers in trades, and you can join their ranks by taking the proper steps for your future. The roadmap toward becoming a construction manager is straightforward with the appropriate experience.
Learning how to get a construction job is a step toward a bright future, and it starts with getting an education. Following the best track provides peace of mind that you can provide for yourself.
Luckily, you’ve come to the perfect spot to learn more about the steps you should take when pursuing a career in the construction industry. Continue reading to take the first step toward a bright future with skilled trades today!
Finish Your Education
The first step toward qualifying for careers in trades is finishing your education. Advanced degrees aren’t expected or required to find employment in construction, though they’re beneficial if you want to move up to a construction manager position.
Most employers want to find candidates with a high school education or GED. Take courses like woodworking, welding, and trades offered at your school. You can also take classes in engineering and math to get a leg up on the competition as you prepare to learn skilled trades.
Attend a Trade School
Upon completing your GED or graduating from high school, the next step is to attend a trade school that offers the courses that interest you. You’ll have several career paths to consider when attending trade school. You can supplement your new skills with a college education, though it’s not required to find success when learning how to get a construction job.
Trade schools give students the knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to take the construction industry by storm. You can find reputable trade school programs at community colleges or through online coursework.
The average course takes one to two years to complete. If you know the path you want to take, consider applying for trade school while still in high school. It’s a fantastic way to get a head start on your career in construction.
Some top options to consider include:
- Plumber courses
- Electrician courses
- Sheet metal courses
- Carpentry Courses
- HVAC Courses
You can sort through your options and find the one that aligns with your interests and passions. It’s a rewarding career that provides skills that translate across several parts of life.
Apply for an Apprenticeship
Upon graduating from trade school, applying for an apprenticeship is the next step you should take when learning how to get a construction job. You can apply for an apprenticeship as soon as you receive your high school diploma or GED and complete the trade school course of your choice.
Your apprenticeship is a fantastic opportunity to gain practical experience and further your skills. You’ll work under the tutelage of more experienced individuals in your chosen field. The average apprenticeship lasts four years, so it’s best to remain patient when pursuing careers in construction and moving up the ladder.
You’re required to complete 2,000 hours of on-the-job training. The apprenticeship also requires you to complete 144 hours of classwork to move past that stage of your construction career. It’s the perfect time to start looking for jobs for tradesmen.
Gain Certification
You’ll need certification to find the best jobs within the construction industry. Certifications are documentation that you’ve learned specific skills related to your craft. You’ll need certifications to qualify for advanced positions and promotions within your chosen field.
It’s also a fantastic way to show potential employers that you’re a top candidate with ambition and goals for your career. Commitment to your professional development will take you far when applying for the best open positions.
Your certification sets you apart from other candidates vying for the same positions. They improve your chances of getting the job you want. You’ll need a certificate to begin work as an electrician, Hazmat worker, or scaffolding expert.
Build Your Resume
Resumes are vital when discovering how to get a construction job, and building yours from a position of strength is worthwhile. Focus on your best attributes and the most impressive experience you’ve gained. Mention what you’ve studied in school and the certifications you’ve earned on your career path.
The goal is to highlight your relevant skills and display your value to potential employers. Use buzzwords like “attention to detail” and “quick learner” to bolster your resume and cover letter when applying for positions.
If you went to trade school after earning your GED or high school diploma, mention the school you attended. Talk about the skills you learned and the hands-on experience you gained. It’s one of the best ways to stand out among other candidates.
Explore the Job Market
The last step of learning how to get a construction job is testing the job market and searching for new opportunities. You have the skills, education, and experience to apply for top positions like construction manager. Use the strength of your resume to find careers in trades that provide fulfillment and fair compensation.
Job search websites are an excellent place to begin your job hunt. You’ll find plenty of job openings, and the best sites make applying for open positions a breeze.
Look for positions you qualify for, though it’s worth shooting your shot when looking to move up the ladder and gain more experience. Recruiting agencies and temp positions are other ways to gain experience and forge a path in the construction industry.
Now You Know How to Get a Construction Job
Choosing careers in trades provides access to specialized skills, good salaries, and job security. Learning how to get a construction job is a tremendous step toward a bright future.
Focus on earning your GED or high school diploma and find a trade school that appeals to you. Gain practical experience and start your apprenticeship as you take the path toward becoming a construction manager. Finding a career you love is daunting, but the perfect job exists. Explore our Career content to take the best steps toward finding your dream job today!