Especially in the developed and developing parts of the globe, there is an alarmingly growing demand for skilled construction workers, including in Africa. This is especially seen in areas with rapid population growth, which increases the need for new buildings, roads, and infrastructure to accommodate the increasing number of people. Consequently, there is increased pressure on the construction industry to build projects quickly and efficiently.
If you’ve considered pursuing a career in this fast-paced industry, here are a few entry paths you can consider.
1. Attend Vocational School
This is one of the most common options to consider when interested in pursuing a career in construction. Vocational schools offer courses and certifications that can qualify you for a wide range of construction jobs. Some of these courses may include welding, carpentry, masonry, electrical, plumbing, and more.
You’ll also learn about safety protocols, building codes, and other regulations that need to be followed in the field.
Additionally, you can always pursue a certificate or degree in construction management. With the right training, graduates can find employment in a variety of roles in the construction industry, from laborers to supervisors.
2. Consider On-the-Job Training
Many companies offer on-the-job training programs that can help you gain the skills and experience you need for a career in the construction industry. Training may consist of instruction, coaching, and hands-on practice to help you learn the ropes and what it takes to become an effective member of the construction team.
On-the-job training also encourages the development of other skills and knowledge that are essential to the construction process, including safety measures, materials handling, and proper use of tools.
3. Volunteering and Apprenticeship
Volunteering with a local construction firm can provide you with valuable experience and connections that can help you enter the industry. As an alternative to volunteering, becoming an apprentice is also a great way to get your foot in the door of the construction industry. You can gain hands-on experience and learn from experienced professionals while earning a wage.
4. Take an Online Construction Course
Several online courses are available that can help you acquire the knowledge and skills you need for a career in the construction field.
Some examples of construction-related courses you can find online include:
- Introductory courses in construction management – These can provide an overview of the principles and practices of construction project management.
- Specific Courses in certain construction trades, such as carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, or masonry.
- Courses in safety, sustainability, and other specialized topics in construction.
- Courses in construction estimating can teach you how to calculate the materials, labor, and other costs associated with a construction project.
Many online courses for construction are self-paced, which means you can complete them at your own convenience. Some courses may also be part of a larger certification or degree program. Coursera, edX, and Udemy are just a few examples of popular online learning platforms that provide certain courses for construction.
5. Taking a Training Program That Matches Students with Employers
Whether you enroll in a vocational school program or take an online course, it’s important to find a training program that best suits your needs.
Additionally, a program that lets you meet with potential employers is usually a big plus. The ConstructionReady training program, for instance, is known to match at least 97 percent of their graduates with employers during training. This way, it becomes easy to secure a befitting job once you graduate.
The construction industry is in dire need of skilled and experienced workers to complete projects on time and within budget. A career in construction jobs can also pay decently, depending on factors such as your specialization, credentials, experience, and location. To find the best jobs out there, be sure to attend job fairs and invest your time in networking.
