The construction sector forms a fundamental part of the economy. Unfortunately, the sector has been facing myriad challenges in the recent past. The industry must rise and meet the increasing need for higher quality, improved services, and skilled workers. And this has led to an increased demand for construction managers. The job pays highly remunerated, and you must prove your skills to secure such a position.
Check out the steps to becoming a construction manager:
1. Obtain a high school diploma
A high school diploma is among the highest qualifications for most construction managers. It was easier to secure a job in the past with such certification. However, the construction industry is now more technical, and a degree certificate is ideal. Moreover, information on construction tools, machines, and materials is crucial. For instance, understand the various types of cranes used in construction work. Also, recognize the useful crane parts and where to acquire them. This way, managing any eventualities during your career will be easier.
2. Acquire an undergraduate degree
This involves different academic pathways. Many colleges offer degree programs in construction management. However, it’s necessary to earn a specialized degree in the field. Some sought-after courses include design, project control, cost estimation, building codes, and contract administration.
You can land a job without a constriction degree, but this will be necessary for future and more significant projects. You’ll learn about construction materials, developing and building construction projects, managing workers, maintaining building codes, and many other useful topics. You can further enroll for a master’s degree in construction management.
3. Secure an entry construction job
As you study, get an entry-level job in the construction industry. Take any position that doesn’t demand any experience. It allows you to gain more skills and construction experience. You’ll obtain lots of information on masonry, flooring, carpentry, painting, and more. The experience will come in handy when you graduate.
4. Get certification
It’s not mandatory to get certified as a construction manager. But this gives you an edge over other job seekers. It also looks good on your resume. You can get different certifications depending on your specialty area. One of the essential certificates is the Construction Management Association of America’s Certified Construction Manager (CCM). Such a certification assures your employers that you possess the right skills and are well experienced to work as a construction manager.
5. Specialize in a niche
You can’t be the best manager when handling all tasks! Getting a niche is The best way to improve as a construction manager. Choose any depending on your interest, and this may be a civil engineer, senior analyst, building inspector, designer, or contract manager. You can also specialize in other related construction careers.
The bottom line
Big construction companies require construction managers to manage employees, follow up with clients, and oversee the entire construction project. You should possess excellent communication, time management, and organizational skills to succeed in the position. Moreover, you must enroll in various management courses and get certified.