Careers in Construction

October 29, 2019

Did you know that it takes an average of 22 different subcontractors to build a home?

October is Careers in Construction Month, and it’s a perfect time to recognize the contributions of all the professionals working in residential construction as well as highlight the rewarding careers available in the industry.

At a time when countless college graduates are finding they are underemployed and saddled with crushing student debt, it is time for educators and policymakers to reexamine the widely held belief that a college degree represents the only road to success.

The building trades offer a great career path. Regrettably, fewer students are seeking careers in the construction industry because many parents and guidance counselors are steering them toward a college pathway rather than a vocational route.

This is particularly unfortunate, given the shortage of skilled workers in the residential construction industry and the fact that carpenters, electricians, framers, roofers and others in the field earn good salaries and express high job satisfaction.

A home builder relies on several highly trained workers to get the job done, including dozens of skilled artisans and professionals such as carpenters, architects, engineers, plumbers, electricians, painters, and landscapers.

As the housing market continues to strengthen, home builders across the country and here in Washington are seeking skilled workers – such as carpenters, framers, and roofers – to help them build the American Dream. In fact, according to the Employment Security Department of Washington state, there are more job opportunities in the construction trades because of the labor shortage in the industry.

This means there is ample opportunity for motivated students seeking a rewarding career path. Residential construction workers consistently express high job satisfaction.

The building trades offer a great career path. And, the residential construction industry is one of the few sectors where the demand for new workers is rising. Parents, teachers, counselors, and students must once again recognize that vocational education can offer satisfying career paths and financial gains.

To learn more about workforce development efforts, contact your local association or BIAW Workforce Development Manager Al Audette.