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A construction manager is responsible for overseeing a construction project from start to finish. They have various duties such as managing employees, resource management, negotiating with contractors, ensuring compliance and monitoring the site for any safety hazards.
Considering the size of the construction industry, construction managers are always in high demand, and it makes sense you would want to become one.
The following is a guide to becoming a construction manager in the construction industry:
Get Your Academic Qualifications
The first step to becoming a construction manager is pursuing a degree in construction management. However, you can also become a construction manager by getting a Bachelor’s degree in courses like Architecture, Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering and Building Science.
The Bachelor’s course in construction management and related fields typically takes four years to complete.
You will learn many aspects of the construction industry and management, such as design methodology, construction processes, resource management, construction lending, etc.
There are colleges offering certificates in construction management for those who would prefer or have to choose vocational institutions. After completing the course, you can apply for an apprenticeship via the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).
Get Some Experience
Construction is a practical job and industry, so you must gain real-world experience after you finish school. You can try and find internships and other forms of work experience while still in school.
The most common path is to find an entry-level position and work your way up to becoming a construction manager.
You will learn various essential skills in construction management, such as using construction management software.
The construction project management tool from Archdesk, for instance, can make project management very easy. Experience will also help you form essential connections in your industry.
Get A License
If you want to work at a construction site, you need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card. You will also need to complete a health and safety test. There are licensing programs available at various health and safety institutions in your area.
The licenses help make you more employable and increase your income earning potential. They also prove that you have the necessary qualifications to work on a construction site.
A point to note is that many employers will choose a construction manager with a license over one without hence the importance of the license.
Improve Your Skills
If you want to become a construction manager, you will need more skills than a regular employee at a construction site.
As a construction manager, one of your most important responsibilities is tracking the hours worked by each team member. This ensures that workers are paid correctly and that projects stay on schedule. This will become an easy task when you use modern softwares.
An app for construction timesheet can be a helpful tool in this process. By tracking hours electronically, you can avoid potential errors and save time. Additionally, an app can help you identify areas where workers may fall behind quickly. As a result, using an app for construction timesheets can help you to become a more effective construction manager.
Therefore, after getting your license as you gain experience in the industry, you should focus on developing the skills that will make you a construction manager. You should develop communication, problem-solving, organizational and motivational skills.
You should also develop your technical skills such as reading blueprints, characteristics of various materials and using construction management software. You will especially need these skills if you decide to start your own construction business that builds homes with patios and churches with comfortable seating.
Apply For Jobs
If you have the proper academic qualifications, licenses, experience and skill set, you should search and apply for construction management jobs. The first step will be to create a CV. Ensure that you have a professional resume that shows your work experiences and highlights your best skills.
The best part about construction management is that you do not have to limit yourself to a single area. Apply for jobs far and wide if you are willing to move. Also, consider the industry you would like or companies you would want to work for a long time.
Becoming a professional construction manager is like any other job. You need to get an education, gain experience, get an operating license, develop your skills and apply for jobs. If you do, you will be on your way to becoming a valuable construction manager.
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