what course would i need to take in high school to become a construction worker

Consider the following steps to become a construction worker:

• Earn High School Diploma or Equivalent: Take it further when in school by looking into high school courses specifically targeting the skilled trades.
• Training: Consider postsecondary training or an associate degree program in a construction field. ...
• Apply for Job/Apprenticeship: Apply for entry-level construction positions, or consider hands-on training by applying for an apprenticeship.

Full Answer

What educational background does a construction worker need?

Entry-level construction jobs typically have no educational requirements, though high school-level training programs can be a big help. Some apprenticeship programs require a high school diploma or GED. To practice certain advanced skill sets, such as welding, you may need specialized training and appropriate licensure.

What kind of Education do you need to be a construction worker?

Education Most employers require construction workers to have a high school diploma. They can improve their skills by taking classes in welding, woodshop and mathematics while still in high school.

What qualifications do you need to be a construction worker?

What qualifications do you need to be a construction foreman?

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Ability to organize a work schedule.
• Ability to solve disputes between workers.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to negotiate.
• Deep knowledge of the construction industry and processes.

Do you have to go to college to be a construction worker?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics says construction workers do not need formal schooling and that most learn their trade through on-the-job training. Some jobs may require that applicants have at least a high school diploma. Education

How do you prepare to be a construction worker?

How to become a construction workerEarn a secondary education. Candidates often need a high school diploma or GED before applying to be a construction worker. ... Complete an apprenticeship. ... Take the OSHA certification. ... Finish specialty certifications. ... Improve their resume.

Is construction hard to learn?

While construction work may seem straightforward, it is a physically and mentally challenging career. There are plenty of skills and traits construction workers need to possess in order to be successful in their work.

How can I become a construction skill?

You can learn the trade on the job, attend a vocational school or obtain a degree from a college or university. Craftsmen often start as unskilled laborers to learn the basics of the trade, then refine their skills as their training progresses. Trade schools offer courses covering the basics of construction trades.

What skills do you need to be a construction worker?

Here is a list of five essential skills and abilities to look for when you're choosing proven commercial, residential and industrial construction workers.Physical strength and stamina. ... Manual dexterity and coordination. ... Strong reading and math skills. ... Building and mechanical knowledge. ... Excellent vision and depth perception.

Is construction a good career?

Construction management is not only considered one of the best careers in the industry, but it's also listed as one of the best jobs in the country, according to a report from U.S. News.

What is the easiest job in construction?

11 Construction Jobs You Can Get With Little to No Experience11 Entry-Level Construction Jobs.Traffic Controller or Construction Flagger.Cleaning Crew.General Laborer.Sheet Metal Worker.Flooring and Tile Installer.Painter.Insulation Installer.More items...

What do construction workers wear?

What do construction workers wear? Construction workers generally wear functional work pants with plenty of accessible pockets, work boots with toe and slip protection, and a work shirt appropriate for the climate. They also must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to meet certain safety standards.

What are 5 responsibilities of a construction worker?

Construction Worker duties and responsibilities Digging trenches and backfill holes to prepare for the construction site. Operating equipment and heavy machinery used in construction sites. Following instructions from construction project managers and supervisors. Loading and unloading building materials.

What are the benefits of being a construction worker?

8 Good Reasons to Get Into a Construction CareerThere are jobs. ... The money is good. ... You can start earning money quickly. ... You can build a lifelong career. ... You can build a meaningful career. ... You can travel. ... You won't get bored. ... You get to work with awesome people, just like you!

How can I learn basic construction?

If you want to learn more about construction, consider some of the ways below:Get an entry-level construction position. ... Read about construction. ... Use video resources. ... Consider joining a mentorship. ... Take online courses. ... Enroll in college programs. ... Attend conferences. ... Accomplish projects.More items...•

What type of skill is construction?

Construction worker skills are the abilities and industry knowledge required to complete physical labor on construction sites, like machine operation, masonry, carpentry and project management.

What are some hard skills in construction?

Five Indispensable Skills Needed for a Construction JobPhysical Endurance and Agility. ... Communication Skills and Teamwork. ... Project Management: Organizational and Leadership Skills. ... Design and in-Depth Knowledge of Codes and Regulations. ... Familiarity with the Latest Construction Technology.

Can you teach yourself construction?

If you want to learn more about construction, one way you can introduce yourself to concepts is by obtaining an entry-level construction position. Positions such as general construction, roofing and repair positions on crews may allow you to join with on-the-job training, depending on firm size and location.

What are the basics of construction?

The stages of construction are divided into six stages which are:Project conception, design, and planning.Building permits.Preconstruction.Procurement.Construction phase.Post-construction.

Why should I study construction?

If this sounds interesting to you, studying construction management could be your pathway to an interesting, well-paid career. You'll hone your team skills and get the opportunity to work on projects ranging from residential builds, to hospitals, factories, or skyscrapers in a CBD.

Why do we study construction?

A degree in Construction Management helps students develop the skills required to take on all the on-site responsibilities of a construction project. Some of the responsibilities you'll have as a construction manager include: Managing the budget, project expenses, and construction workers.

How long does it take to become a construction apprentice?

Once students complete trade school training, many opt to continue their training as a paid apprentice. This period of their career may take up to five years. During that time, the construction worker goes to assigned jobs in the building trades and attends classroom training.

How much will construction jobs grow in 2026?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that the number of jobs for construction laborers will grow 12 percent by 2026, which compares to the 7 percent average rate of growth for all other U.S. occupations. Construction of additional schools, businesses and factories will help to keep demand for workers high.

What is trade school?

Trade School. A trade school offers courses on the basics of the construction trades. Students learn how to select building materials for projects, and how to install them using the appropriate power and hand tools. Reading and interpreting blueprints, building codes and shop drawings are also part of the curriculum.

What is the second option to get a degree in technology?

A second option is to earn an associate of technology, associate of science or certificate of technology degree from a community college. Both types of training offer a mixture of hands-on and classroom experiences.

How long does it take to become a construction worker?

Unlike some jobs, there are lots of different routes that you can go down to become a construction worker. All of these routes take a different length of time and will be better suited to different individuals depending on the type of construction work that they want to go into.

What does a high school diploma tell you about construction?

Graduating with your high school diploma can tell an employer a lot about your character and work ethic, so it is always best to have it. Even though your high school diploma doesn’t teach you anything about construction work.

How long is a construction certification course?

The length of this course varies from 30 minutes to 10 hours depending on the level of experience that you have, and the course that you want to do. But, most construction companies will require their employees to obtain this certification before they can start working.

Do you have to get a certification to work on site?

Instead, you will have to complete certifications alongside working on site. But don’t worry too much about which specific certifications you have to get. If you apply for a job in construction, the company will likely tell you what specific qualifications you need, and might even pay for them for you.

How to become a construction worker?

First, become knowledgeable about the construction industry. Consider attending a trade school to learn the basics about construction trades. Trade schools teach students about how to install building materials using the appropriate power and hand tools along with how to read and interpret blueprints and building codes. The minimum education requirement for construction workers is a high school diploma or GED, with much of the learning occurring on the job.

What are the skills needed for construction?

Here are some of the top skills for successful construction workers: 1 Physical strength and stamina: To lift and move equipment, construction workers use their physical strength. They also are on their feet throughout the day, so they must have lasting stamina. 2 Excellent vision and depth perception: Since construction jobs require precision and accuracy, construction workers need excellent vision and depth perception to move equipment properly. 3 Proficiency in math and measurements: Construction workers use basic math skills to calculate measurements and finding ratios for the proportion of an object's length to its height. 4 Coordination and manual dexterity: When working on projects, these professionals use their hand-eye coordination to assemble parts and operate machinery. 5 Detail-oriented: In order to follow directions effectively, construction workers pay attention to details. 6 Building and mechanical knowledge: Construction workers understand building equipment and tools to help them perform their job. 7 Teamwork: Since construction professionals work with a large group, they know how to operate together to get the task done.

How to become a certified welder?

Consider expanding your construction understanding by earning a specialized certification. The American Welding Society (AWS) offers a certification in welding, which has no prerequisites to earn. To become certified by AWS, demonstrate that you can deposit a sound weld. This certification remains valid as long as you provide written documentation signed by your employer, showing that you still perform welding tasks.

What is the job growth rate for construction workers?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a growth of 5% for construction workers and helpers between 2019 and 2029. This is a slightly faster rise than the average career growth of 4% for other occupations. The BLS expects the construction worker job growth to reflect the increase in overall construction activity, as workers repair the nation's infrastructure for roads and bridges. The increase in prefabricated components, such as modular rooms and panels, made offsite and assembled onsite may also aid job growth for construction workers.

What do construction workers use to lift and move equipment?

Physical strength and stamina: To lift and move equipment, construction workers use their physical strength. They also are on their feet throughout the day, so they must have lasting stamina.

What is construction labor?

A construction laborer, or construction worker, is someone who performs tasks on a construction site. Those working as residential construction workers focus on buildings for daily living, such as apartments, whereas commercial construction professionals work on structures for business purposes, like retail stores and offices.

Where do construction workers work?

Construction professionals work for a variety of companies and organizations, including private companies and even the government. These workers do the majority of their work outside, sometimes in unsafe environments or in inclement weather. Construction workers sometimes work indoors in tight spaces that require crawling and bending.

What are the courses that you can take to get college credit?

This includes Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses if they are available in your school. If you do well in these courses, you may receive college credit for them. Advanced courses can also strengthen your college application.

What are the best electives for high school?

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this occupation include: 1 Blueprint Reading 2 Carpentry 3 Computer Fundamentals 4 Construction 5 Drafting 6 Industrial Arts 7 Electricity

What are some work based learning opportunities?

These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Is a construction manager self employed?

Many construction managers are self-employed. If you want to run your own business some day, you should consider taking these courses as well:

What type of education is required to be a construction worker?

A high school diploma is the bare minimum education required for the majority of construction worker positions. Students in high school who are interested in gaining core trade skills and experience can consider enrolling in a vocational program at their school.

What qualifications do you need to work in the construction industry?

Employers often want applicants who have two or more GCSEs (9-4) in English and mathematics, with passes in both subjects. Some firms may accept candidates who do not have GCSEs if they have prior, relevant job experience, while others will not.

Do construction workers make good money?

Construction workers in the United States earn a respectable living, with a typical annual wage of $37,080 throughout the country. This amount, however, is subject to change.

Do you need a college degree to do construction?

Education and Training Requirements It is not uncommon for construction employees to be required to hold a college degree. Many professionals have a high school graduation and find work with a firm that offers on-the-job training to supplement their education.

What is the highest paid job in construction?

Elevator installation and repairers ($88,540) are the first in the list. Elevator installers and repairers rank first on our list of the highest-paying construction occupations, earning an average income of $88,000.

What do construction worker do?

Construction laborers and assistants are often responsible for the following tasks: Construction sites should be cleaned and prepared by eliminating debris and any potential risks. Loading and unloading of construction materials to be employed in the construction process.

Is being a construction worker a good job?

Rankings. Construction workers are ranked sixth on the list of the best construction jobs. Jobs are graded according to their ability to provide a difficult-to-find combination of factors. More information on how we rate the top jobs may be found here.

How many years of construction experience do you need to become a construction manager?

The certification requires a 4-year bachelor’s degree and 4+ years of construction management experience, or eight years of construction experience with four years in management if you don’t have a bachelor’s degree.

Why is it important to get a construction certification?

It can show employers that you’re dedicated to learning and improving your skills, making you more valuable . And the more useful you make yourself, the better the pay can be — especially with so many cities hiring for new construction jobs across the country.

What is the ACI certification?

The American Concrete Institute (ACI) offers almost 30 different certifications on nearly everything about concrete. Although it may appear to be simple enough (mix a little cement and water), those in construction understand the science behind it. A test must be taken to become certified must be taken; the ACI offers resources to help you prepare for the test.

Is certification necessary for construction?

Although certification isn’t strictly needed all the time, continuing your education shows steadfast commitment in your future career and lets your employers know you are dedicated. With the right certifications, you’ll stand out above the rest, increasing your value and worth. Here is a list of the most common and useful construction ...

Does OSHA require a 10 hour training?

OSHA does offer a training program where students earn an official Department of Labor 10 or 30-hour training card. Although not required by OSHA, many states , on certain worksites, require every worker to have a Department of Labor card.

Do you have to be certified to operate a boom lift?

To reduce the risk of injuries, OSHA requires completion of training and a certification program to operate a boom lifts. It doesn’t take too long to be certified, but it’s best to be properly trained before.

Do you need a certification to be a construction manager?

For instance: if you don’t want to become a construction manager, a management certification won’t do you any good. Another essential aspect to understand is that you don’t need to collect certifications. Earning a certificate does take time and dedication, but stressing out to receive all of them will do you no good.

What are the courses that are needed for social work?

Psychology and Sociology . These courses build the backbone of knowledge needed for a career in social work. Learning about human behavior, mental illnesses, how societies and cultures function and social relationships can prepare you to move on to college courses that offer a higher level of study of psychology and sociology.

What classes do social workers take?

Social workers spend a lot of time writing reports and speaking with clients. English classes that teach students to analyze works and write about them are helpful, as are speech and journalism classes if offered.

What is the purpose of science courses for social workers?

Science courses that focus on the human body and biological principles help social workers understand physical problems their clients may be facing . Medical social workers help patients being discharged from the hospital, facing terminal illness or living with disabilities find resources and treatment options to help them. These courses will provide a background in the basic science behind their ailments.

What language do you need to be a social worker?

Foreign Language. Most high schools require at least two years of a foreign language for graduation. The most helpful language for a social work career is Spanish, as the Hispanic population in the U.S. grows.

What do social workers need to know?

Social workers need to understand several mathematical concepts to monitor and analyze data. Statistics and probability courses provide a foundation for understanding everything from the prevalence of a disease to the likelihood a client can benefit from a rehabilitation program.