Why Construction and Maintenance?
Mobility, great pay and benefits, and the feeling of accomplishment that comes from building something with your own two hands - these are just some of the benefits of choosing a career in construction and maintenance
Going down this path is both challenging and rewarding. In addition to high wages (you'll get paid even when you're in training), you'll have the opportunity to travel across the country working on interesting, high-profile projects. You'll learn how to use the most advanced tools and cutting-edge technology. Most importantly, you'll be part of a professional team. You'll experience the satisfaction of working together to accomplish the (seemingly) impossible. You'll be one of the few people who can drive past a new power plant that provides energy to tens of thousands of consumers, or a manufacturing facility that gives good-paying jobs to hundreds of workers, point to it, and say, "I built that."
But your opportunities aren't limited to the United States. Craftspeople are a highly skilled part of the work force; their talents and abilities are in demand everywhere. With the right training, you could have the opportunity to work on jobs all over the world. Learning a trade can be more than just your gateway to a career - it's your gateway to literally a whole world of possibilities.
Opportunities for advancement in construction are available in every trade. A craftsperson is able to distinguish him or herself through both preparation, study and hard work. You'll experience the pride that comes with moving up the ranks in your chosen trade - and the excitement of developing new skills and learning even more. Before you know it, you'll be helping to train the next generation, passing on the legacy to young people just like you.
How to Talk to Parents about a Career in Construction and Maintenance...
The key word is "career." The construction and maintenance industry needs bright, ambitious, energetic, and creative people who may not want to sit in front of a computer screen for 8 hours a day or spend years trapped in a corporate cubicle. There are dozens of trades and occupations to choose from. Whether you decide to become a skilled construction worker or a manager, there are opportunities to earn up to six figures annually. Now more than ever, the construction and maintenance industry uses high-tech equipment and heavily relies on team work. So if you enjoy working with people and want a profession that is filled with excitement and variety, a satisfying and life-long career in the construction industry could be the perfect fit.
Training Snapshot
Capacity – there are over 1,500 training centers across the country that train 70% of all construction apprentices in the US. That is the equivalent of the third largest public university system in the United States - bigger than the Ohio State University or University of Texas systems!
Safety - A Core Value throughout the industry, the "zero injury" philosophy is the foundation of every thing we do and ensures that our tradespeople go home whole each and every night.
Quality – Rigorous standards, taught by highly qualified, experienced instructors. Curriculum developed by Owners, Building Trades, and Contractors emphasizing core skills.
Stability – There is broad based funding for Joint Apprenticeship Training Committees through local collective bargaining - with approximately $1 billion invested annually. These JATCs produce highly skilled, easily mobilized regional workforces.
Leadership – North America's Building Trades Unions convenes regular meetings of the Standing Committee on Apprenticeship and Training. These programs benefit from owner/customer, contractor and labor (also known as "tripartite") governance and are subject to independent, third party review.
Are you a retired or transitioning active-duty military service member looking for a hands-on civilian career? Helmets to Hardhats is a national, nonprofit program that connects National Guard, Reserve, retired and transitioning active-duty military service members with skilled training and quality career opportunities in the construction industry. The program is designed to help military service members successfully transition back into civilian life by offering them the means to secure a quality career in the construction industry.
A New Day for Women in Construction
The Construction Industry is a great place for women to learn a trade and leave their mark. A job in a building trade can be as rewarding and satisfying for women as for men. The same opportunities for travel and advancement are available regardless of gender. The construction industry is a great place to build a career.