Spotlight on a Non-Office Industry: Construction
As we've shared this month, many non-office jobs are in fast-growing industries. For example, think about jobs in "green" industries, such as solar panel installation and wind turbine maintenance. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the construction industry is not only increasing in job opportunities, it's projected to have one of the fastest wage and salary increases over the next decade. Could this be a field for you? Let's take a closer look at the construction industry and what it takes to pursue training and a career.
What are some construction roles?
Construction roles go far beyond hitting a nail with a hammer. Sure, that's part of the construction world, but there is so much more to it. Different roles in construction include carpenters, electricians, plumbers, heavy equipment operators, safety specialists and many more. There are also surveyors, foremen, supervisors and project managers as you move up the ladder in the industry. You'll find jobs at many skill levels and interests. Construction workers build new structures like commercial and residential buildings, bridges and roads, and repair or renovate existing ones. It takes many talented and skilled people in specialized roles to complete a construction project. If you've ever watched a television show about remodeling, you've seen that it takes everyone to create a finished project. The team includes interior designers to make color and furniture decisions, as well as a construction crew for areas such as drywall and electrical work.
What education is required for construction jobs?
Typically, you don't need a college degree to work in the construction industry. Some jobs may require a high school diploma. Many construction companies offer on-the-job training. It may be an informal training program while you gain hands-on experience. This gets you right into the industry, already contributing to projects.
Another popular option is to complete an apprenticeship. An apprenticeship is a little more formal in that you work while getting classroom education and experience. This is a paid situation that allows you to learn while earning a paycheck. An apprenticeship program can last anywhere from one to four years and allows you to get the technical skills you'll need on the jobsite. You can learn more about apprenticeship programs on our blog post Apprenticeships: Learn While you Earn.
Another way to start a construction career is to take courses towards certifications in the area of construction that appeals to you. Many of these are offered by trade associations and councils. Yet one more way is to attend a vocational school and choose a construction program specific to your interests. The Occupational Outlook Handbook is a helpful resource for learning more about training and education requirements.
Who are construction jobs right for?
People who choose to work in the construction industry often enjoy physical labor and the manual skills they use daily. They find it rewarding to see a project or building come together and know that they contributed to it. There's also a technical side of the work, like reading blueprints and paying close attention to measurements and math. Another trait necessary in construction is being observant. There are numerous safety hazards on a job site. You must be aware of your surroundings due to the heavy equipment, power tools and environmental variables.
Where do you look for a construction role?
You can find entry-level construction jobs on many online job boards. We have an extensive list of job boards on the Find a Job page of our website. If you are interested in becoming an apprentice as mentioned above, visit Apprenticeship.gov for available programs in construction. In addition to the job boards, be sure to tell family and friends that you're in the market for a new job in construction. They may have connections that can lead you in the right direction.
Finding Success with Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program
Social Security's Ticket Program can guide you on your employment journey to construction, or the industry you choose. The Ticket Program is a free and voluntary program that supports career development for Social Security disability beneficiaries ages 18 through 64 who want to work. Meet Marty who received help from the Ticket Program and is thriving in his construction career.
Learn More
To learn more about the Ticket Program, visit choosework.ssa.gov or call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. Ask a representative to send you a list of service providers or find providers on your own with the Ticket Program Find Help tool.
Receive Ticket Program Texts
If you're interested in receiving text messages from the Ticket Program, please text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292. Standard messaging rates may apply. We'll send updates from our blog, identify steps on the path to employment and more. We hope you'll find our texts helpful, but you can opt out at any time.
