Training at a construction trade school can prepare you for exciting roles in the building professions. Career training can prepare you for a number of positions, including carpentry, roofing, construction management, electrical work, and more. Construction remains one of the nation's largest industries and the building and construction trades employ more than 7 million salaried workers along with nearly 2 million self-employed professionals.
Depending on your career choice, your educational options may vary. Many construction workers complete an apprenticeship as well as class work through a local trade school or community college. Apprenticeships may last up to five years as you learn the skills necessary to succeed in your field. If you are interested in eventually moving into a management position, you may need to complete a four-year degree in a related field.
Construction Trade Career Opportunities
In this diverse field, you should be able to pursue a variety of training and career opportunities. However, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the contraction trades have "relatively high earnings" and rely upon a large number of self-employed workers. In 2008, these positions earned the following median annual salaries:
- Carpenters: $38,940
- Electricians: $46,420
- Construction Managers: $79,860
- Construction Laborer: $28,520
Today, more than half of all jobs are in residential and commercial construction, with specialties in plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical leading the way after general contracting. Armed with career training from a construction trade school, you should find yourself prepared to join a diverse field of career possibilities.
