Every October, the construction industry takes a moment to celebrate Careers in Construction Month, an initiative designed to raise awareness about the opportunities, benefits and vital role that construction plays in our society. For those who already work in the field, this month serves as a reminder of the value they bring to communities across the country. For those considering a career in construction, it's an invitation to explore a dynamic and fulfilling industry that offers more than just a paycheck. It’s a career that builds America—literally and figuratively.
A MONTH TO RECOGNIZE AND REFLECT
Careers in Construction Month is not just about recruitment; it’s also about recognition. The construction industry employs millions of workers who build the roads we drive on, the schools our children learn in, the hospitals we seek care in and the homes we live in. Yet, construction workers are often underappreciated. This month is a chance to shine a light on the critical role these professionals play in shaping our world, ensuring they get the recognition they deserve for their hard work, dedication and craftsmanship.
Many of the people who have their dream jobs, they got them from a relationship.
Jennifer Todd
Founder, LMS General Contractors and A Greener Tomorrow
WHY CONSIDER A CAREER IN CONSTRUCTION?
For those already in the field, the reasons for choosing a career in construction are well understood. It’s an industry that offers the opportunity to work with your hands, solve problems and see the tangible results of your labor at the end of each day. But there are also broader benefits:
- Job Security and Demand
The construction industry is one of the largest industries in the U.S., with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting steady growth in employment over the next decade. As urbanization continues and infrastructure ages, the need for skilled construction workers will only increase. - Competitive Salaries and Benefits
Construction careers can be financially rewarding, offering competitive wages that often outpace those in other industries. Additionally, many construction jobs come with robust benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans and paid time off. - Career Growth and Advancement
Whether you start as a laborer, an apprentice or a project assistant, the construction industry offers a clear path for growth. With experience and additional training, you can move into specialized roles, supervisory positions or even start your own construction business. You will also build relationships with others in the same field. Those relationships can be friendships that develop or even business relationships that can extend into further career opportunities. - Diverse Opportunities
The construction industry is incredibly diverse, encompassing a wide range of jobs, from carpentry and masonry to electrical work, plumbing, heavy equipment operation and project management. This diversity means that there is something for everyone, whether you prefer working outdoors, engaging in physically demanding tasks or managing complex projects.
“Many of the people who have their dream jobs, they got them from a relationship," Jennifer Todd, founder of LMS General Contractors and A Greener Tomorrow, told CONEXPO-CON/AGG 365.
TRAINING AND EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
One of the great things about the construction industry is the accessibility of training and educational opportunities. You don’t necessarily need a four-year degree to start a career in construction, and many employers offer on-the-job training, apprenticeships and certification programs to help workers gain the skills they need. Organizations like the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) and local trade schools provide specialized training and credentialing that can enhance your expertise and marketability.
Becoming a great leader is a never-ending process.
Bart Gragg
Creator of Blue Collar University
Moreover, the industry is increasingly embracing technology, offering pathways for those interested in fields like Building Information Modeling (BIM), construction robotics and sustainable building practices. With the rise of green construction, new roles and opportunities are emerging, allowing workers to stay ahead of industry trends and technological advancements.
“Like any craft, leadership has to be developed,” Bart Gragg, creator of Blue Collar University, told CONEXPO-CON/AGG 365. “It’s relatively straightforward to develop hard skills like welding and pipefitting. That’s because it’s easy to see the progress and where additional training may be needed. Plus, with a lot of hard skills, once you become a master, that’s it. But becoming a great leader is a never-ending process.”
BREAKING STEREOTYPES: WHO CAN BE A CONSTRUCTION WORKER?
Careers in Construction Month is also a time to challenge stereotypes about who can work in this field. The construction industry welcomes people from all walks of life, and efforts are being made to increase diversity and inclusivity. Women, people of color and veterans are finding new opportunities in construction, supported by initiatives aimed at creating a more equitable and diverse workforce. This diversity is essential not just for social equity but also for bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the industry.
Nothing is ever going to be more impactful than direct face-to-face interaction with your community.
Kristina McMillan
Founder, Crew Collaborative
HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED
As a construction worker, there are several ways to get involved in Careers in Construction Month:
- Mentorship
Consider mentoring a young person or someone new to the industry. Share your experiences, offer guidance and provide a real-world perspective on what a career in construction looks like. - Community Outreach
Participate in or organize local events that introduce high school students or community members to the construction industry. This could include career fairs, job site tours or even classroom presentations. - Promote the Industry
Use social media or other platforms to highlight the work you do and the projects you’re proud of. Sharing your story can inspire others to consider construction as a viable and rewarding career path. - Advocate for Safety and Training
Encourage your peers to take advantage of training opportunities and prioritize safety on the job site. A skilled, safe workforce is essential to the industry’s continued growth and reputation.
“Look at your team, look at the community, figure out what you’re missing, and then go engage with those people,” Kristina McMillan, founder of Crew Collaborative, told CONEXPO-CON/AGG 365. “Nothing is ever going to be more impactful than direct face-to-face interaction with your community.”
A FUTURE BUILT BY YOU
As we celebrate Careers in Construction Month, remember that every structure you build contributes to the foundation of our communities. Your skills, dedication and hard work are essential in creating the infrastructure that makes daily life possible. So, take pride in your work and use this month as an opportunity to share the benefits of a career in construction with others.
Whether you’re just starting out or have been in the industry for years, know that your career in construction is not just a job—it’s a commitment to building a better future for all.
Photo credit: PAWPIXEL.COM/BIGSTOCKPHOTO.COM
