Building a career in Construction

Building a career in construction can be a challenging and rewarding experience for those who are interested in the built environment, and have a passion for creating innovative and functional structures. And one of the most exciting and in-demand careers in the construction industry? Construction management, of course.

In this blog post, we will explore what construction management is, why it's a good career choice, and how to start building a career in this field.

What is Construction Management?

Construction management is the process of planning, coordinating, and overseeing the construction of a building project from start to finish. This can include everything from initial design and budgeting, site preparation and construction, to final inspection and completion.

Construction managers are responsible for ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.

Is Construction Management a good career?

Construction management is a great career choice for a number of reasons.

Firstly, it offers a high level of career stability and job security. With the constant need for new buildings and infrastructure, the construction industry is always in demand, and there are many opportunities for qualified and skilled workers.

Additionally, construction managers have the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects, from small renovations to large-scale developments, which can make the job interesting and varied.

Another advantage of a career in construction management is the potential for career advancement. With experience, construction managers can progress to more senior roles, such as project managers or construction directors.

Additionally, many construction managers choose to start their own construction companies.

How can you work your way towards a career in the construction industry?

So, how do you start a career in construction management?

The first step is to gain a solid education in the field. A qualification in architecture, building design, or building and construction is typically required for entry-level positions.

Additionally, many construction managers also hold professional certifications, such as the Certified Construction Manager (CCM) or Project Management Professional (PMP), which can help to demonstrate your knowledge and skills to potential employers.

Gaining hands-on experience

After you complete a degree, the next step is to gain hands-on experience. This can be achieved through internships, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training.

As you gain experience, you will learn the skills needed to manage construction projects, such as budgeting, scheduling, and risk management.

Building your network

Another important step in starting a career in construction management is networking.

Building relationships with industry professionals and making connections with potential employers can help you to learn about job opportunities and gain access to new projects.

Joining industry organisations, such as the Australian Institute of Building (AIB) or the Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM), can also be a great way to build your network.

Melbourne Polytechnic has a range of Certificate, Diploma and Degree courses in building and construction.