You may be considering learning construction but worry that it’s going to be too difficult. While it takes most individuals several months to learn construction basics and a few years to gain confidence in their skills through practice, learning construction is an achievable goal for any learner who’s willing to devote the time needed to study hard and soft skills, practice, and gain real-world training. Keep reading to find out more about the benefits of learning construction, the most challenging parts of this process, and some ways to make training easier and more effective.
What is Construction?
Construction is a broad term that involves building systems, objects, or organizations. Building construction includes all activities on a site that involve assembling and erecting structures. This term also includes the planning, financing, and design initiatives required throughout the building process to ensure structures remain usable. In addition to the building phase, construction entails any maintenance-related repairs, expansion projects, demolition initiatives, or dismantling tasks.
There are four primary types of construction: residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure. Residential construction involves building single or multi-family dwellings for individuals and their families. Commercial construction entails building or renovating commercial structures such as warehouses, storage facilities, or office spaces that can be sold or leased. Industrial construction is the practice of building structures or premises like power plants, processing plants, factories, or warehouses that can be used for manufacturing-related tasks. Infrastructure construction is the act of building, renovating, and maintaining private or public structures like tunnels, water supply lines, railways, roads, and bridges.
Are Construction Classes Hard?
Generally, the answer to this question depends on the depth of your study and what aspect of construction that you are hoping to learn. Learning the basics of AutoCAD for interior design projects or for simple 3D modeling is something that can be done with relative ease (though professionals will need more detailed training) while learning how to design bridges is going to involve learning a lot of complex concepts involving math and physics. There are classes offered at a range of different levels, so no matter how much prior experience you have, you will be able to find a class that suits your personal needs.
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What Are the Hardest Parts of Learning Construction?
Each learner will differ in terms of which aspects of learning construction they find most challenging. The difficulties they encounter will largely depend on the level of knowledge they bring to the training process, the method they select for study, and their ultimate aspirations for learning this in-demand skill set. Generally, most will find that learning construction isn’t as daunting a process as they may initially imagine. Individuals who already have a solid understanding of mathematical concepts, including basic algebra and geometry, as well as experience with CAD software, will find that it’s easier to learn construction than those who lack this training.
In order to succeed in construction, it’s essential for students to cultivate both hard and soft skills. This can be overwhelming for some learners since this process can take several years. Aspiring construction professionals will need to learn how to understand and read blueprints. They also will have to be able to work with many types of tools and make exact measurements. Training is also needed to prepare for unforeseen variables that can occur on job sites, including late material deliveries, dangerous weather conditions, or building codes. Those interested in specializing in a particular trade such as carpentry or electrical work, will also need to be prepared to spend additional time learning this specific set of skills. This may entail additional classwork or an apprenticeship.
Additionally, all construction professionals will need to have a range of soft skills to handle interpersonal relationships at job sites. This training involves learning techniques for clear communication, time management, problem-solving, and logical thinking. Anyone interested in management-related roles will likely need to spend additional time and effort learning how to manage teams and navigate workers from all trades who are contributing to a construction project.
One of the core challenges that learners face when studying construction is developing a 3D mindset. This is a must for construction professionals since it helps them envision how each element of a large project will come together and do so before any of the actual construction begins. This means learning how to translate blueprints into physical structures and envision them as final products. To do so, learners will have to spend time learning building regulations and safety protocols. They also will have to know how the different systems in a building work together, including electricity and plumbing, without clashing. Each project is different from the last, which makes learning an ongoing process.
What Can I Do to Make Learning Construction Easier?
While it may feel overwhelming to start from scratch and learn the ins and outs of construction, many educational resources are in place to help with this process, including in-person, live online, and self-paced classes, as well as free educational resources. Because of the sheer volume of resources available, learners at all levels will be sure to find training material that is at the appropriate difficulty level and prepares them for construction-related jobs.
The most effective way to fully learn this topic is to enroll in a class. Skills classes are the shortest type of training available. They usually take just a few days (some just require one afternoon) and teach students basic construction concepts such as how to read blueprints and use industry-standard terminology and tools. Some short courses focus on a particular construction topic such as how to install sprinklers, while others are more general in their approach and offer a beginner-friendly overview of this field.
Bootcamps are another excellent educational resource for those who want to make their construction learning process easier. These programs usually require several weeks or months of time (depending on whether they’re completed part-time or full-time) and ensure those who are new to construction gain essential, hands-on training. Certificate programs are the most comprehensive way to fully learn construction. These programs usually require several months of training and prepare students to work professionally with their skills upon graduation. In addition to in-depth construction training, many certificate programs offer professional development incentives such as 1-on-1 mentoring or career counseling.
Those who don’t want to invest hundreds or thousands of dollars in learning construction can get started by working with free resources. YouTube videos are a great way to learn construction basics, as well as find answers to specific questions. Some YouTube videos require just a few minutes to watch and focus on skills like house framing, Autodesk Revit, or building codes. Other content is longer and covers construction best practices and essential skills.
Learners can also find free construction training resources from software providers like Autodesk. Its website has free construction training material, including short tutorials and quick-start guides. Learners can also find online construction tutorials such as those that are available from Noble Desktop, that provide learners with information on topics like how to work with sprinkler legends or building sections. Additionally, educators like Coursera and Udemy offer free self-paced courses for construction novices. Since there’s no financial commitment involved with free construction resources, they provide a low-stakes way to learn the basics in this field without breaking the bank.
Why Learn Construction
Studying construction is a great opportunity for those who enjoy being outdoors or working with their hands to acquire the training necessary to pursue a range of dynamic, high-paying career paths. Construction jobs are an excellent alternative to desk jobs; these physically active roles promote fitness and health. Because construction projects are available at many locations, this career path provides professionals with geographical flexibility and the possibility of working in many settings or locations. Construction training also helps individuals develop problem-solving skills, which can be used in a variety of circumstances and situations outside the professional sector. Additionally, since construction projects often involve multiple team members or teams, training can provide learners with the collaborative skills and tools necessary to effectively communicate with multiple stakeholders.
Working on a construction project is a good opportunity to experience the sense of accomplishment and pride that corresponds with seeing a project through. Those who construct houses, bridges, tunnels, or factories can see firsthand the tangible results of their labors and take comfort in knowing that these structures will be used for many years. Since construction projects play an integral role in community development and maintenance, construction professionals know that the fruits of their efforts will have a positive impact on communities. Constructing hospitals, schools, or playgrounds improves the quality of life for those in the community and can provide a sense of fulfillment for every professional who contributes to the process.
In addition to its myriad professional uses in the construction industry, construction training also can help those in other fields perform a range of pragmatic tasks. Those studying construction can apply this knowledge to fields like engineering, architecture, and graphic design. Basic knowledge of the construction process, delivery methods and contacting types, building elements, safety, construction terminology, and sustainability practices can be an asset for anyone interested in exploring how to create structures or systems. Additionally, non-professionals who acquire basic construction skills can use this knowledge for home improvement projects, including small home renovations and repairs. This skill set is also helpful for property maintenance-related tasks such as repairing drywall, fixing dripping faucets, or replacing light fixtures. Familiarity with basic construction terms and processes can also help homeowners more effectively communicate with Contractors about upcoming projects. These skills also are helpful for those who work in property management or real estate.
Level of Difficulty, Prerequisites, and Cost to Learn Construction
Although most people don’t consider it “easy” to learn construction, it’s a very achievable goal for those willing to devote the time and energy needed to acquire hands-on training. This physically demanding field is usually gradually picked up by most individuals over time as they complete classes, hold apprenticeships, and receive on-the-job training. Learners should keep in mind that this type of work doesn’t just require technical knowledge; it’s also physically demanding and requires endurance, strength, and dexterity to perform tasks like working in all types of weather conditions or lifting heavy materials.
After completing training or taking subject-specific courses, many construction professionals continue their learning through on-the-job training or apprenticeships. These provide a way for construction workers to practice the skills they’ve learned during their studies as they work alongside experienced professionals. Because construction is such a broad category, those interested in working in this field should keep in mind that they may need to acquire specialized training in trades like electrical work, masonry, or carpentry, in addition to more generalized training in safety protocols and best construction practices. This can require additional time and training.
While no formal prerequisites (including a college degree) are required to enter the field of construction, certain skills can expedite the learning process. Those interested in pursuing a construction career will benefit from soft skills like problem-solving, time management, attention to detail, and clear communication. Additionally, basic mathematical proficiency and technical knowledge are also an asset.
The costs associated with learning construction vary greatly depending on the individual’s training approach. Those who opt for formal training will find courses that range in price from several hundred dollars to $5,000, depending on the provider and the scope of instruction available. Many providers also offer Free training resources in the form of online tutorials, YouTube videos, blogs, self-paced classes, or webinars. Some learners may opt to continue their training through apprenticeships, which do not cost anything to attend and provide learners with a source of income as they acquire real-world construction skills.
What Else Should I Learn Alongside Construction?
If you’re interested in learning construction, you may wonder if there are any other skills or tools that you can study alongside this subject matter to make the training process easier. Because construction is such a broad field and draws from specialized knowledge in other trades, some individuals may want to learn about civil engineering or project management to supplement their studies.
Civil engineering involves designing, building, maintaining, and eventually demolishing physical structures. Civil Engineers work with many types of structures, depending on their specialization. These include airports, bridges, highways, tunnels, water systems, and mass transit systems. Knowledge of civil engineering is a great way for aspiring construction professionals to learn how to create prototypes, schematics, or blueprints for various structures and evaluate how stable and sustainable they are. This type of training is also useful for learning how to create structures that adhere to safety and environmental regulations.
Another field that is closely related to construction and shares a similar skill set is project management. Learning to manage projects is a great way to acquire the training needed to brainstorm, organize, and oversee all stages of a construction project’s lifecycle. Project Managers are tasked with ensuring projects are completed on time and on budget, that they adhere to safety and quality standards, and that all stakeholders’ needs are met, including property owners, Contractors, Subcontractors, and Architects. Project management training is useful for tracking project progress, ensuring progress is on pace, and allocating resources.
Learn Construction with Self-Paced VDCI Courses
If you’re interested in learning more about construction, you can find construction classes at VDCI. The Virtual Design and Construction Institute (VDCI) is an accredited educator that provides comprehensive online training in a range of construction-related tools and topics.
Those interested in learning construction basics can enroll in the Construction Fundamentals Course Bundle. This beginner-level program provides participants with training in all the core elements of the building construction process, from preliminary site work to final installations. This bundle includes six courses that prepare participants to work with all major systems and materials in a building. Students acquire basic construction terminology and the steps for constructing a building. This set of classes includes a free 1-on-1 individual training session.
In the Construction Management Bundle Course, learners devote several weeks to building a solid foundation in the skills and tools required to work in construction management or project management. This two-part immersive program includes an overview of the construction industry, various sectors, site logistics, document control, master planning, and scheduling. A 1-on-1 bonus training is included with tuition.
The VDCI also offers a Construction Estimator Course. This introductory-level program is led by a professional Construction Estimator with real-world experience creating cost estimates. Participants devote several weeks to exploring the different types of estimates and how they are organized. Students study the reason for offering estimates, the tools available to assist with this process, and the skills needed to provide accurate estimates. All participants complete a graded project.
Aspiring construction professionals can also enroll in VDCI’s Blueprint Reading Fundamentals Course Bundle. This set of self-paced courses offers expert instruction in basic blueprint reading skills for use in commercial or residential construction projects. This comprehensive class requires several weeks of on-demand study. Coursework is taught by a licensed Architect and includes basic training in scale, drawing types, and specifications for mixed-use projects. This class is intended to help professionals like Engineering Interns, Architects, Drafters, and Designers understand and interpret blueprints. By course completion, participants will be able to independently navigate a set of construction documents. This class includes a free 1-on-1 bonus training session.