More than next job: Construction as a Rewarding Career

GMCS Editorial:  Our industry continues to struggle with the issues of increased skilled workforce demand and a limited supply.  With significant industry growth opportunities lying just ahead of us and the reality that we can provide real career growth opportunities along with attractive career development options, it’s time that we, as an industry, start packaging and branding what we provide.   While a career in construction can be mentally and physically tough and challenging, it can also be highly rewarding.  From construction management, site safety & supervision, skilled tradesman specializing in high performance buildings and alternative energy or following and ever evolving and popular technology track including BIM, drones, augmented reality and more, this isn’t the industry of the past.  Our efforts and emphasis must be focused on branding what we are and directing that message to our next generation of skilled trades’ people when they are young; we must strive to create and provide an academic and vocational track that welcomes each of them with open arms and endless opportunities upon graduation.      

More than next job: An Ed/OP

February is National Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month and across the country, educators are preparing America's next generation of skilled workers. In the Pittsburgh area, tens of thousands of students will graduate from high school in just a few months and many aren't sure of their next step. Pennsylvania's construction contractors face a related but different problem: a major shortage of skilled labor.

For many individuals, becoming a skilled craft tradesman is an excellent alternative or addition to college. Unfortunately, the focus on CTE education and on the trades has faded over the years. However, while the focus may have faded, opportunities within the construction industry have not. Construction is among the fastest growing industries in the country and faces a shortage of 1.6 million skilled workers by 2022, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Most construction apprenticeship programs, including the four-year programs at Associated Builders and Contractors' Western Pennsylvania Chapter, offer the opportunity to earn a wage while working and taking classes. When apprentices graduate, they are already working full-time at good wages, and can do so without the burden of paying off student loans.

A skilled workforce is a tremendous asset to Pittsburgh's economy. So, if you're looking for a career, and not just your next job, construction is an excellent choice.

R. Pete Gum

Source: The Tribune Review