There’s a common misconception that anyone off the street can pick up a few tools and get to work in construction - even if they have little to no experience or training. But that couldn’t be further from the truth! Just because you don’t need a four-year college degree to work in the building trades, doesn’t mean that you don’t need any skills, education, or specialized training. In fact, you need a LOT.
Who can work in construction?
The building trades are open to anyone who is willing to learn and hone a craft. However, that doesn’t mean that anyone can get a job. The men and women you see out on construction sites usually have a very specific area of expertise, a honed craft, and countless hours of experience.
There are also some physical and educational requirements to work in the building trades, like being able to lift a certain amount, having a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent, and the ability to pass certain aptitude tests.
What skills do you need to work in construction?
Construction work is serious work, not layman’s work. Being a successful construction tradesperson requires much more skill than simply being able to swing a hammer, use a drill, or weld a pipe. Construction workers today have a unique skill set that includes technical knowledge, a deep understanding of engineering and building principles, excellent communication skills, physical endurance and strength, strong math skills, and so much more!
How do you get the skills you need to work in construction?
The best way to get the skills you need to succeed in the construction trades is through a registered apprenticeship program. During apprenticeship, workers learn a skilled trade through a mix of classroom education and real, hands-on experience from on-the-job training alongside seasoned professionals in the trade.
The best part? No prior experience is necessary to get started in an apprenticeship AND apprentices are also considered full-time employees, which means they get paid for their on-the-job training time.
Apprenticeships will teach you everything you need to know in your chosen trade, give you real-world experience, and will grant you a certificate that establishes you as a trained professional in your craft. After completing your apprenticeship, you have everything you need to have a successful and rewarding career in the construction industry.
Want to get started on the path to a well-paying, meaningful career in the construction industry? There are apprenticeship programs in all 50 states and Canada in all types of trades. Learn more and get started today!
