(Newswire.net — December 17, 2018) — Building contractors are responsible for planning, coordinating and budgeting construction projects ranging from small home repair and improvement projects to the construction of homes, commercial buildings, and other large structures. They are essentially the management-level employees in construction projects, overseeing the logistics of the project from beginning to end. As a building contractor, you will also handle the business aspects of the job. The requirements of the job have changed over the years, so here’s how to become a building contractor.
How to Become a Building Contractor
Earn an Associate’s Degree
Relatively few building contractors had some post-secondary education in the ’80s, but that has since changed. A rising number of employers who mostly deal with large projects expect building contractors to have a college education. As such, you can start your journey to becoming a building contractor by earning an associate’s degree. Many colleges offer building contractor programs at the associate, bachelor’s and master’s degree levels.
Once you’ve completed high school or an equivalent qualification, you can enroll in an associate’s degree program in a field such as construction technology, construction science, construction management or building science. Expect to take classes in construction methods and materials, business management, building codes, surveying, safety practices, basic principles of engineering and architecture, estimating costs and contract administration.
A formal education, however, is not as crucial for say, small scale contractors who specialize in local repairs and home remodeling projects.
Gain Work Experience in The Construction Industry
Hands-on experience is very critical in the construction industry, so getting even a few months of practical experience in construction management will make you an attractive candidate to employers. Many individuals choose to work under the supervision of a building contractor or general contractor while working towards their degree, which helps them to apply their studies in real life situations.
Obtain a License
Building contractors may be required to obtain a professional license, depending on local and state regulations. Requirements may vary from one jurisdiction to another, but many expect that a building contractor has the right educational background and professional experience in the construction industry.
Become a Contractor
Once you’ve completed the necessary education requirements and achieved some adequate experience, you can start looking for building contractor positions. Like most contractors, you may choose to run a business and work for yourself, or work for an established construction company. Be ready for a formal training program if you’re employed by a larger company, or on-the-job training if you end up working for a smaller one. Training will include how to perform certain tasks, work that is expected by certain clients, and the importance of compliance.
Obtain Professional Certification
Although it’s not mandatory, learning a professional certification in the construction industry makes you more marketable in the construction industry.
Institutions such as the American Institute of Constructors (AIC) and the Construction Management Association of America offer certification programs for building contractors and managers. Industry certification assures customers that you have the experience and technical knowledge to deliver according to industry standards and guidelines.
Bottom Line
Building contractors plan and supervise many types of projects. Whether you choose to stick to general building contracting or opt to specialize in particular parts of building processes such as plumbing, heating or wiring, it all boils down to getting proper training and experience. This article went over how to become a building contractor so that you can begin your career in the construction industry, or create your own contracting business. Good luck!