Management Pathways

Education Requirements

Construction management roles typically require a construction-related degree. Degree programs may include:

• Construction Management
• Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Architectural)
• Business Administration
• OLS in Project Leadership (Purdue Northwest Pathway Program)

Preparing While in High School

If you're in high school and want to prepare for a career as a construction project manager, here are the best steps to take:

• Focus on Relevant Courses
  • Take classes in math (especially algebra and geometry), physics, and business to build a strong foundation for construction and project management concepts.
  • If available, enroll in drafting, technical drawing, or engineering courses to gain insight into construction design and planning.
• Join a Building Trades Program
  • Participate in any high school building trades programs related to construction. This hands-on experience will give you a head start in understanding the basics of construction.
• Develop Leadership and Teamwork Skills
  • Join extracurricular activities like sports or student leadership groups. These help develop leadership, communication, and teamwork skills that are crucial for construction management careers.
• Explore Internships or Part-Time Jobs
  • Seek out internships or part-time jobs or high school work-based learning opportunities with construction companies or in related fields. Even shadowing professionals or working at a local construction site can give you valuable industry exposure.
• Research College Programs
  • Start looking into college programs that offer degrees in construction management, civil engineering, or business. Knowing what programs align with your career goals can help you focus your efforts early.

Preparing While in College

If you're in college studying civil engineering with a minor in construction management, here are several things you can do now to boost your job prospects:

• Gain Hands-On Experience
  • Internships: Seek internship opportunities with construction firms or engineering companies to gain practical experience and apply what you’ve learned in the classroom.
• Build Your Network
  • Become Involved: Get involved in groups like the Construction Advancement Foundation (CAF) or the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). Attend construction industry events and seek out opportunities to network with other professionals.
  • Attend Career Fairs: Take advantage of career fairs and networking events to meet potential employers and learn about job openings.
• Develop Technical Skills
  • Software Proficiency: Get comfortable with industry-standard tools and software like BIM, AutoCAD, Procore, and Primavera. Employers look for candidates who are skilled in these tools.
  • Certifications: Consider pursuing certifications such as OSHA 10/30 for safety or LEED accreditation if you're interested in sustainable construction.
• Take Leadership Roles
  • Student Clubs and Projects: Join or lead construction or engineering clubs and work on team projects to demonstrate leadership and teamwork skills.
• Research Industry Trends
  • Stay informed about the latest trends in civil engineering and construction, such as sustainable building practices, new technologies, and project delivery methods.

Construction Management Pathways in Construction

A career in construction management offers exciting and rewarding opportunities if you're passionate about leading projects from start to finish. As part of the construction management team, you'll be at the heart of turning plans into reality, overseeing every phase to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. You'll have the chance to work on diverse projects, solve complex challenges, and see the tangible results of your efforts come to life, making it a fulfilling career path with plenty of growth potential.

List of Management Careers:

Career Advancement Strategies in Construction Management

Once you’ve secured a role in construction management—whether as a Project Engineer, Project Manager, or Estimator—there are key strategies you can use to advance your career. Success in this field requires a combination of strong work ethic, continuing education, and gaining diverse experience.

Work Ethic: The Foundation for Success

• Take initiative and consistently meet deadlines.
• Be proactive in solving challenges on-site or in the office.
• Lead by example and demonstrate reliability to position yourself for leadership roles.

Continuing Education: Invest in Your Growth

• CAF Sponsored Certifications
  • Construction Management Certificate (CMC): This certification offers flexible, targeted professional development for field and office leaders in the construction industry through a series of required and elective courses that can be completed in under a year.
  • Construction Site Safety Certificate (CSSC): This certification offers construction professionals essential knowledge in construction safety and health to help maintain injury-free worksites, developed under the OSHA Susan Harwood training grant.
• Pursue Industry Certifications:
  • Project Management Professional (PMP): Recognized certification for managing projects, valuable for PMs aiming to demonstrate expertise.
  • Certified Construction Manager (CCM): Industry-specific credential that highlights skills in managing complex construction projects.
  • LEED Accreditation: Valuable for professionals focused on sustainability and green building practices.
  • Certified Safety Professional (CSP): For safety managers and professionals looking to demonstrate expertise in safety compliance.
  • MBA or Advanced Degrees: Consider working toward an MBA if you’re interested in moving into business operations or higher-level leadership roles.

Gain Diverse Experience

• Work on various types of projects to broaden your skill set.
• Rotate through different roles (project management, estimating, field supervision) to develop a well-rounded understanding of construction.
• Seek out opportunities that challenge you and expand your expertise in both technical and business areas.

Networking: Build Connections to Grow Your Career

• Local Employer Organizations: Become involved in local employer organizations such as the Construction Advancement Foundation (CAF) or Northwest Indiana Contractors Association (NWICA).
• Join Industry Organizations: Become a member of associations like the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) to meet professionals in your field.
• Attend Industry Events: Conferences, seminars, and workshops provide valuable opportunities to connect with industry leaders, learn about new trends, and explore job opportunities.
• Utilize Online Platforms: Engage on platforms like LinkedIn to maintain connections, stay informed about industry developments, and join professional discussions.
• Seek Mentorship: Connect with experienced professionals who can offer guidance, advice, and open doors to new career opportunities.