Construction

There is a huge range of construction jobs, including management, finance, engineering, driving, labouring, carpentry, stone masonry, and countless others. The educational and training requirements for construction jobs are equally diverse. For many jobs, you can learn the necessary skills through on-the-job training or apprenticeships. Others require a degree, and some have state licensing requirements.

Construction degrees may be especially useful for those hoping to become construction supervisors or managers. Job titles in this field may include project manager, field manager, or superintendent. These workers oversee construction projects from start to finish and

In May 2008, about 64 percent of construction jobs were specialty trade contractor jobs such as building equipment contractors, foundation, structure and building exterior contractors, and building finishing contractors. 23 percent of employment was in building construction, and 13 percent in heavy and civil engineering construction. A large number of construction workers are self-employed, operating their own businesses.

The construction industry is expected to experience strong growth in the foreseeable future, leading to 19 percent growth in employment in the decade to 2018, although the Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that fluctuations from year to year are likely as construction jobs are tied to the strength of the economy. Earnings in construction can also be good--higher than the overall average for all industries. Actual earnings vary greatly according to the type of job, level of skills, and availability of trained or qualified employees for that job.