If you’re a construction manager, you know no matter how dedicated and enterprising you are, the whims of the market can catch you off guard sometimes. Keeping up on the current construction industry employment outlook is one way to make sure you’re ready for what comes.
Bright Prospects for Managers
Between 2006 and 2016, the employment of construction managers was projected to grow by a remarkable 16 percent. Considering the average employment prospects for all fields, the outlook for construction managers was above average.
Because the construction industry is expected to cool down somewhat in the near future, the growth of opportunities for managers is likely to slow. For the period between 2014 to 2024, employment for construction managers is projected to grow by 5 percent. That’s around the average employment growth for all jobs. Even though jobs may not be as abundant as they were in recent years, you’ll still find plenty of opportunities with residential, non-residential, and specialty trade contractor businesses.
One reason for the on-going increase in demand for construction managers is the increasing complexity of today’s projects. Your skills are needed to guide companies in using advanced construction technology as well as to navigate an ever-growing number of laws and regulations. Knowledge of multipurpose and energy-efficient buildings is also highly sought after.
Secure Your Future
The skill and knowledge it takes to manage modern construction projects means managers with a bachelor’s degree or higher and practical experience in construction will be preferred in the coming years. A degree in construction management, construction science or civil engineering will pay off well. Those who’ve completed internships also have an edge in finding construction industry employment.
As in the past, starting your own firm is one of the most accessible ways to achieve success as a construction manager. In fact, over the past decade, more than half of all construction managers were self-employed. This route is most promising for those with many years of experience in construction.
For an easy way to stay up to date on construction industry employment and construction leads, contact us at Construction Monitor.