Why plan a career in construction?

Thinking about a career in construction? Know someone who is or who would excel in the industry? There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about what it takes to get into the industry, who is best suited for a construction career and even what it means to have a career in construction. We’ve put together some resources to help address these things:

	Why young people and high school students should be thinking about construction careers.
	What it means to be a woman in construction.
	What it takes to switch to a career in construction from another career path.

Why young people should think about construction careers

Planning for a construction career can start early – little kids are often fascinated by the tools of the industry and love to build and play with construction-themed toys. But as they get older, they are often steered away from construction as a valid career option.

In addition to construction careers being well-paid and often in-demand, a career in construction can mean many things – from those who work on job sites to those in behind-the-scenes roles in office settings.

Register for the upcoming Builders’ Talk webcast to find out more about what area school districts are doing to prep students for a career in construction and to hear from local businesses who are interested in seeing more construction talent developed at a younger age.

Are you a middle or high school teacher or counselor? We would love to work with you directly to show students what it means to work in construction. Contact us to set up a meeting.

What it means to be a woman in construction

There are a variety of career options and roles for women in the field of construction. At the same time, there are a lot of myths about what it means to be a woman in construction today, getting ahead and what it’s like to work in an environment traditionally dominated by men.

Check out this podcast recorded for the Kansas City Business Journal, where four women share their real-life experiences navigating a career in construction. They break down misconceptions and give advice for women who are just starting a job in the industry or who are thinking about switching careers.

Panelists for the podcast include Erica Jenkins, controller for The Builders’ Association and a management trustee on several union fringe fund boards; Aarika Leonard-DeMarc, marketing manager for The Builders’ Association; Jennifer Lyon, superintendent for JE Dunn Construction; and Bethany Riley, SPD, senior project manager for Turner Construction Company.

Want to connect with other women in the industry? Check out Kansas City’s NAWIC chapter! And don’t forget to celebrate Women In Construction Week March 7-13, 2021. #WICweek2021

What it takes to switch to a career in construction

It’s never too late to decide what you want to be when you grow up! And if you decide you want to work in a fulfilling career with the potential for great pay and great benefits, then a career in construction could be exactly what you’re looking for.

The Builders’ Association Training Center and Workforce and Professional Development team are a great place to get started.