Why Choose Construction?

The construction industry offers a wealth of opportunities for both craftspeople and management professionals. From working on skyscrapers to building bridges and highways, a career in construction provides a chance to work on projects that shape the world around us. Whether you're interested in working with your tools or in a management role, a career in construction offers a dynamic and rewarding path.

Skilled craftspeople are the backbone of the construction industry, bringing specialized skills to every project they work on. As you gain experience and develop your skills, opportunities for growth and advancement become available in every trade. From apprentice to journeyman, and from foreman to superintendent, you can advance your career and take on new challenges at every step.

For those interested in management and leadership roles, construction management offers an exciting career path. As a construction manager, you'll be responsible for overseeing and coordinating all aspects of a project, from initial planning and design to construction and completion. You'll work closely with craftspeople, engineers, subcontractors, clients, and other professionals, ensuring that projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget.

Whether you're interested in working with your hands or in a management role, a career in construction offers a sense of pride in your work, as you see your projects come to life. With opportunities for growth and advancement, a chance to shape the world around you, and the satisfaction of seeing your work make a tangible impact, a career in construction could be the perfect choice for you.

Industry Growth

The construction industry is booming with countless opportunities for personal growth and development, especially in areas such as renewable energy and infrastructure rebuilding. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the industry is projected to experience a 4% growth in employment from 2021 to 2031, driven by the urgent need to modernize the country's aging infrastructure, from roads and bridges to water and sanitation systems.

In addition to the growing demand for construction workers, emerging technologies such as 3D printing, drones, and virtual and augmented reality tools are revolutionizing the industry, making it an exciting and innovative field to pursue. With opportunities for learning new skills and working in a variety of environments, a career in construction can offer both personal and professional development.

Furthermore, the construction industry offers the chance to work on meaningful projects that contribute to building a sustainable future, such as constructing wind turbines or installing solar panels. By pursuing a career in construction, you can be part of a movement to create a cleaner, more resilient world while also building a successful and fulfilling career for yourself.

Skills Development

The construction industry is known for providing high-quality training and education through various apprenticeship programs. These programs offer a comprehensive approach to learning and skill development, combining classroom education with on-the-job training, resulting in journey-level craft professionals. The trades are a lifelong learning opportunity, and continuing education is a crucial aspect of maintaining skills and keeping up with new and emerging technologies.

In addition to opportunities for skill development on the trades side of the industry, there are also professional development training programs for individuals on the management side. Employer organizations like the Construction Advancement Foundation offer higher-level, industry-specific training programs for those interested in advancing their careers beyond the journey level. These programs include training for Foremen, Superintendents, Project Management, Estimators, Safety Management, and Executive-level positions. With a focus on industry-tailored training, these programs prepare individuals for leadership roles and the challenges that come with managing construction projects.

Debt-Free Education

While a degree in construction or related fields may be necessary for those looking to enter into project management careers, the construction apprenticeship program offers an alternative path to debt-free training. This is especially beneficial at a time when college tuition and student debt are at an all-time high.

In many skilled trade apprenticeship programs, apprentices can earn a college degree for their coursework and on-the-job training. These apprenticeships offer a built-in associate's degree from Ivy Tech Community College which can be seamlessly transferred into a bachelor’s degree pathway at Purdue University in Project Leadership. This degree pathway helps develop leaders in field supervision, ensuring that graduates have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in higher-level management positions.

In addition to receiving a debt-free education and a degree, apprentices in construction trades also earn a salary while gaining hands-on experience and mastering their craft. This practical approach to education offers a unique opportunity for individuals to learn a valuable skill set while also building a career in the construction industry. And with the industry's projected growth and need for skilled workers, the apprenticeship program is an excellent option for those looking to enter a stable and rewarding career path.

Wage Package

A career in construction can lead to well-paying middle-class jobs. Full-time skilled tradespeople in the construction industry can earn an impressive annual salary ranging from $75,000 to $120,000, depending on their trade and working hours. When taking into account fringe benefits, the total hourly wage package in Northwest Indiana averages over $70 per hour. Moreover, professionals in supervisory positions, including Superintendents, Foremen, Estimators, and Project Managers, can earn well over six-figure salaries annually.

Health Benefits

One of the most significant perks of working in the construction industry is the healthcare benefits provided to employees and their eligible family members. This is an important consideration for young people entering the workforce who may not fully appreciate the value of such benefits. Contractors and labor unions in the construction industry prioritize the health and welfare of their employees, recognizing that a healthy workforce is essential to their success.

All employees in skilled trades, along with their families, receive a comprehensive compensation package that includes health and welfare benefits. While the specifics of these plans vary by trade, most provide coverage for medical, prescription, dental, vision, and even weekly accident and sickness benefits, as well as death and dismemberment benefits. This type of coverage provides peace of mind and financial security for employees and their loved ones in the event of illness or injury.

Retirement Benefits

Securing a comfortable retirement is crucial, and the construction industry offers various retirement benefit plans. Skilled trade professionals typically belong to defined-benefit pension plans and annuity opportunities, while managerial employees and other support personnel are usually enrolled in contribution retirement plans such as a 401k. These benefits provide workers with the financial security needed to enjoy their golden years without financial stress.

It's important to note that retirement benefits can vary depending on the employer and the trade within the construction industry. However, regardless of the specific plan, the industry recognizes the importance of helping employees plan for their future. This emphasis on retirement benefits sets the construction industry apart and makes it an attractive option for individuals looking to build a secure financial future.