If you’re looking at starting a career in construction, first of all— smart choice! Construction jobs are always in demand, and a career in the trades is lucrative and fulfilling.
I majored in Construction Engineering at Montana State University, and have spent the past 28 years with Dick Anderson Construction. It’s been an incredible experience, and I wouldn’t change anything.
Well, I would change some things…
Here’s what I would tell my younger self, and anyone looking to get into construction today:
➡ Build your communication skills.
When I first started at DAC, my soft skills were sorely lacking. I remember struggling to write an email and nervously presenting to my peers. My boss used to berate me, in a good way, critiquing my writing and presenting. Unfortunately, it’s not something that’s emphasized in a lot of engineering programs.
I was tired of being critiqued by my boss, so I signed up for Toastmasters. It’s a 6 AM coffee with people you don’t know, and you have to speak for two minutes about a given topic in front of everyone. There are also three main presentations a year. It was a great place to get more public speaking experience in a friendly environment—and after a few years, I finally felt comfortable presenting to clients and owners.
Whether you take comms classes in college, or do a program like Toastmasters, find a way to bolster your communication skills and it will serve you well!
➡ Get hands-on experience through an apprenticeship or internship program.
Seek out as much formal on-the-job training as you can. You can do this through internships, summer jobs, and apprenticeship programs. Whether you’re a carpenter, electrician, or plumber, finding an apprenticeship program will equip you with the skills to be successful.
At DAC, we’re proud to offer a robust apprenticeship program. We currently have 54 active apprentices in areas of study such as Construction Drawings, Trenching, Excavation, and Advanced Roof Systems. Coursework includes a combination of bookwork and lab studies. This is the best way to launch your career in the trades! Check out our apprenticeship program here: https://lnkd.in/gmkKGU3x
To those who have been in construction for a few decades like me—what advice would you share?
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#construction #careers #constructionlife
Coach | Head of ESG | Social Value | Sustainability
3moThis is a fantastic opportunity for any candidate to be involved in a high profile project and apply their practical learning across a complex work stream. Get in touch with me to learn more about these opportunities and the project itself.