It’s a great time to consider a career in construction. The general industry needs new talent and hard workers to thrive. Whether you’re interested in helping prospective homeowners customize the house of their dreams or you’re more focused on occupational safety, there are several facets of construction you can pursue.
Of course, it can also feel overwhelming with all of this information, OSHA standards, and occupational safety best practices. If you’re not sure where to start, it’s critical to use practical resources that can help you learn more about the general industry, employment trends, and new skills. Here’s what you need to know.
Pursue OSHA certification to learn about workplace safety.
One significant component of any construction job is workplace wellness and safety. Supervisors, contractors, and team members need to understand OSHA principles to ensure they’re meeting safety standards while they’re on the job. Often, this means that you need to pursue an OSHA certification program.
OSHA outreach training can help keep you apprised of the latest regulations and industry standards. That way, you’re able to ensure you’re up-to-date on all of your necessary safety and health training. With a bit of practical OSHA outreach training, you can avoid common workplace hazards, prevent accidents, and ensure proper installation. Since construction safety is critical, don’t neglect your OSHA responsibilities.
Work with established construction companies.
Particularly if you want to work directly with homeowners or commercial brands, you’re probably going to want to do some research on the top local and regional brands. After all, the best way to learn the ins and outs of the construction industry is to practice and work with the pros. So, for example, you could work with a company like CMK Construction (cmkconstruction.com) and use your combined skillsets to help homeowners build their dream houses. Even if there aren’t employment opportunities, these brands can help you learn more about the industry.
Construction companies also do more than physical labor. Commonly, they’ll provide energy efficiency recommendations, help clients choose between siding options, and even ensure that projects adhere to local codes and regulations. The suitable trainers can even teach you how to diagnose cracks, effectively find wall studs, and determine what type of siding is best for a home. So whether you’re learning about the benefits of vinyl siding or your trainer’s informing you how to install total solar panels, working with an established construction brand can teach you plenty.
Use online publications to find the latest news.
The United States construction industry continuously shifts and morphs. For some pros, it’s a little daunting to try and keep up. If you feel like this is the case, it’s a good idea to find a news outlet or online publication that’s industry-specific. Whether it’s a news outlet that focuses on design trends and renovation tips or an online DIY blog with home project ideas, several digital resources provide key benefit opportunities to construction pros and property owners alike.
When you find a site or publication that delivers helpful content, it’s a good idea to bookmark it or see if the outlet has its software application. With push notifications, you can keep up with the newest industry developments in near real-time. It’s an excellent way for entrepreneurs and construction business owners to make strategy adjustments and forecast sales.
Consider a trade school or construction academy.
Most construction professionals know about dozens of different home improvement projects, repairs, and renovations. While it’s possible to pick up much of this information on the job, some continued education can also help. In some cases, a certificate or diploma may even be a condition of employment. As such, you must familiarize yourself with training requirements to prepare yourself to enter the workforce. Of course, depending on your specific career interests, this could look different.
For some construction professionals, you may only need a two-year degree or a certificate. However, you’ll also want to have completed OSHA training, so employers know you’re familiar with your safety responsibility. You’ll want to consider something akin to an apprenticeship for other prospective employees, which is a popular choice for many skilled trades. Before you decide on an education program or continued schooling, it’s a good idea to weigh the positives against any potential drawbacks. After all, it might not be the best plan to get into debt with school loans or expenses, so you may need to rethink how long a degree program might take you.
There are plenty of resources to help you succeed.
Even though the construction industry can sometimes seem significant, expansive, and overwhelming, it’s much easier to navigate if you know where to look. By keeping up with the latest industry news and workforce developments, you can set yourself up for a long, successful career. Beyond that, your construction resources can also help you network, build professional connections, and possibly start your own business. Solidify your goals and look for resources that align with your core interests. It’s the smart way to continue growing.
