What Training Is Needed to Become a Construction Worker?
Construction workers provide all the manual labor for companies, government agencies and individuals who are building new offices, homes, bridges, tunnels, highways and other structures. Job responsibilities for construction workers vary a lot depending on their level of experience and area of expertise. Most training for construction workers happens on the job, and most big construction companies host multi-day training sessions for new employees.
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Education
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Most entry-level construction jobs are available for those with only a high school education or GED equivalent. Many jobs are even available for those who never graduated high school. However, employers generally like to hire high school graduates who have taken classes in areas like English, mathematics, woodshop, physics, welding, mechanical drawing and blueprint reading, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Degree programs are available for individuals who want a leg up in finding an upper-level position in a construction company. Candidates can complete, for example, a two-year associate degree program in construction technology at a local community college or vocational school.
On the Job Training
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Most construction workers receive the bulk of their training on the job. New employees typically help more experienced workers at first with basic tasks such as cleaning and preparing the work site, unloading materials and other such jobs. Many training programs take on the form of an official long-term apprenticeship, which can last from two to four years. An apprenticeship program usually combines both classroom time and on-site training. Construction workers may also receive training in specific areas of construction, such as environmental remediation, highway construction, green construction and handling toxic chemicals. New apprentices usually have to be at least 18 years old and meet the background requirements for the job. Proficiency in English is usually required, but not always.
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Certification
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Construction workers can increase their earning potential and employment options by obtaining certification in a number of different areas. Certificates are available in concrete finishing, welding, scaffold erecting and dozens of other skills. Construction workers who specialize in one of these niche skills are often in greater demand than those who have only general training.
Necessary Skills
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The skills a construction worker needs depend on the position and type of construction. However, there are lots of basic skills that all construction workers need. These include being able to use basic hand tools like hammers, scissors, saws, wrenches and screwdrivers; being able to measure wood and other materials accurately; being able to follow directions and perform tasks in a timely fashion; being able to work closely with other workers as a team; and having good hand-eye coordination, balance and manual dexterity. Construction workers should also be in solid physical shape and be able to lift heavy objects.
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References
- Photo Credit Hard working construction worker at a construction scene. image by Andy Dean from Fotolia.com
