Learning about construction is an exciting and rewarding process that can lead to a variety of dynamic career paths around the country. Many training options are available to help aspiring construction professionals learn the basics in this field, as well as to provide intermediate or advanced-level instruction for those who already have construction experience and want to take their skills to the next level. Each learner will need to decide individually which method best suits their learning needs and professional aspirations.
The most common ways people learn construction are through live training, self-paced classes, free resources, and apprenticeships. Live study options are available from many top providers in-person and online using a live teleconferencing platform. Those who prefer the flexibility of self-directed study can opt instead for asynchronous construction classes. Online coursework can be completed from any location with an internet connection and can often be tailored around other commitments. Free resources like YouTube videos, webinars, and tutorials provide a low-stakes way to explore basic construction concepts or find answers to specific construction-related questions. Some people opt for one training method, whereas others find it beneficial to combine multiple resources to gain a more well-rounded education. Finally, some learners opt to complete apprenticeships after their training to gain hands-on, real-world experience under the supervision of a construction professional.
Keep reading to explore the benefits of studying construction, the different types of training options that are available, and the benefits and drawbacks of each form of study.
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.
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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.
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 who study 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.
How Can I Learn Construction?
If you’re interested in learning construction, you may be curious about what types of training options are available. Students can select from in-person classes, live online courses, and on-demand study options. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks to weigh before deciding which is best for you.
Learners who thrive in the traditional classroom environment will find that in-person construction training is the most interactive and engaging way to learn this skill set. Students attend class at a designated training facility that’s located in or near a major city and has computers with the most current software already installed. An expert instructor with real-world construction experience leads each session and provides a supportive environment in which students can ask questions as they arise and receive immediate support. This training format requires that students have access to a reliable form of transportation and that they live relatively close to a training center.
One popular alternative to in-person construction training is live online study. This type of coursework is a good option for those who prefer live classes but don’t want to commute to and from meetings. All classes are taught remotely using a live teleconferencing platform like Zoom. Those enrolled can ask questions in the moment and even grant the instructor permission to share their screen if they need more individualized guidance on tricky concepts. The live training format allows students to connect with one another in real-time, which can add a sense of community and camaraderie during training. While live online study does require being able to attend classes that meet regularly, it eliminates the need to battle rush-hour traffic or waste time and money on parking.
Self-paced construction training is the most flexible way to learn this topic. Whereas live classes take place in real-time, self-paced classes are pre-recorded and placed online. Students can access them as their schedule permits and devote as little or as much time each day to their studies as they wish. On-demand training is available to learners at all levels, including those who have little or no prior construction training. Many top educators like Udemy and Coursera offer self-paced classes that range in length from just a few hours to several weeks or months. Some beginner-level programs are even available for free. Those interested in self-paced training should keep in mind that since courses are asynchronous, no instructor will be present to answer questions.
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 break into 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 training approach the individual selects. 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. Free training resources are also offered by many providers 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 also provide learners with a source of income as they acquire real-world construction skills.
Advantages of Learning in a Self-Paced Environment?
Self-paced construction classes are one popular way to study this subject. Most learners appreciate the flexibility these classes provide in terms of scheduling and study pacing. Rather than having to commit to courses that meet at regularly scheduled intervals (often multiple times a week), on-demand classes are recorded at an earlier time and put online. Learners access them as their schedule permits. Each student has the power to decide on their own how to space out their training and how much time to devote to a particular skill or lesson. Some may prefer spending an entire weekend learning how to install sprinklers in commercial buildings, whereas others may find it more useful and in keeping with their scheduling constraints to pace these lessons out over several weeks during their lunch break at work. Those who get the most out of their studies are usually self-motivated learners who can complete their training without an instructor present or formal deadlines in place.
Self-paced training is often a good option for those who work full-time or have busy schedules. Because this kind of coursework can be completed at any time and from any location, it can be done while traveling or at night after work. However, learners should keep in mind that no instructor will be present in these classes. For this reason, some may find it challenging to find answers on their own to construction-related questions or to master complex concepts.
Another benefit of self-paced study is the cost. Often, live coursework is the most expensive way to study construction because it involves real-time instruction in a live setting. Self-paced classes are often a much more cost-effective approach to live training. These programs vary considerably in price. Some educators like Udemy and Coursera offer free beginner-level construction classes that can help students learn basics without having to spend a penny. Other providers have subscription plans to platforms, where students purchase a pass for a month and can complete any training they wish during this timeframe. Some educators also offer individual construction courses, which can be purchased as stand-alone programs. These range in price from under $100 to over $5,000, depending on the scope of instruction provided.
Advantages of Learning in a Live Online Environment?
One of the most engaging and effective ways to learn construction is through live coursework. Many top educators offer live online training options for learners at all levels through short skills classes, bootcamps, and certificate programs. In this type of training, students connect with the instructor using a live teleconferencing platform like Zoom. Each student is encouraged to participate and ask questions as they arise. The instructor leads lessons and guides class discussions and is there at every step of the learning journey to provide individualized support. Participants can even share their computer screen with the instructor (with permission) for additional help. All students also benefit from the support of other learners who are attending virtual classes alongside them.
One of the main benefits of live online construction classes is that they can be completed from any location with a strong internet connection. There’s no need to battle rush-hour traffic, waste money on parking or tolls, or even leave the comfort of your home to complete your studies. This kind of training is often appealing to those who don’t have a car or access to a reliable form of transportation or who live far from training facilities that teach construction classes. Learners should keep in mind that live online training takes place in real time. This means that students must be able to commit to attending classes that meet at regularly scheduled intervals, often multiple times a week. For this reason, those who work full-time or have busy schedules may find live online training challenging or prohibitive.
Additionally, since live online construction training is taught remotely using a teleconferencing platform, it’s essential for all learners to have reliable, high-speed internet to complete their training. Similarly, all participants will need to have their own computing device for their studies and have the most up-to-date software installed and ready to use. Individuals who don’t have fast-speed internet or a home computer may opt instead for in-person study because the training facility will provide them with all the tools necessary to complete training.
Another consideration of live online training is cost. Generally speaking, live study is the most expensive way to learn any topic. Students who invest in this type of coursework will often have to devote more money to their studies than those who learn through self-paced materials or free online resources. While cost is a definite consideration, the additional investment pays for itself for most students because real-time, live instruction provides many learning benefits, including small class instruction and real-time support. Some live online programs such as certificates, also offer additional learning or professional incentives that are included with tuition such as 1-on-1 mentoring sessions, career counseling, resume critiques, or access to networking events, which are included with tuition.
What About Free Resources
In addition to live online and self-paced courses, learners also may wish to study construction with free resources. There are many types of free resources available online, including YouTube channels, online blogs and tutorials, webinars, and research articles. Each varies in terms of length and scope. Some YouTube videos on construction topics take just ten minutes or less to watch and cover topics like fire safety construction best practices, whereas other videos span hours and provide learners with an overview of the field of construction and the most commonly used tools. Learners may also consult online construction articles and tutorials such as those available from Noble Desktop, to read well-researched content on topics like how to work with Autodesk Revit to create sprinkler legends or building sections. Other learners may watch free webinars or read blogs written by construction professionals to gain a basic understanding of this field. Additionally, Autodesk provides free construction training material on its website such as expert tips and quick start guides.
Because there’s no financial commitment involved with free construction resources, they provide a low-stakes way to study this field and learn the basics. However, most individuals will find that these resources alone will not suffice to provide them with a full understanding of construction for work-related purposes. Free online content doesn’t provide students with access to a live instructor or a way to ask questions, which can pose challenges for some learners. Additionally, because of the sheer number of free resources available pertaining to construction, it can be challenging for some to determine which are the most current and useful and which are dated and are less applicable to the job setting.
What Training Method is Best for Me?
Determining which construction training method is best for you is a personal decision all learners must make and is one that depends on several factors. The first is whether you’re able to attend live classes. Most students will find that live training is the most engaging and effective way to study construction. It provides you with access to an expert instructor who’s available at all times to provide individualized support and guidance. Because in-person or live online construction courses take place at regular intervals, often multiple times a week, those who opt for this type of instruction must have schedules that permit them to attend classes. If you work full-time or are unable to carve out the time needed to attend classes, then live study may not be the best option for you.
For those who can’t attend live construction classes, self-paced coursework is a good alternative. These pre-recorded classes allow learners to establish their own learning pace and fit their training in alongside other commitments. Self-motivated learners do best in this learning environment since there are no formal deadlines to turn in homework. Those who opt to learn through self-paced courses should keep in mind that they won’t have access to an instructor. Students who need to learn specific construction skills for work-related reasons such as to assist with an upcoming construction project or to apply for a new career path, may find self-paced classes limiting for this reason. In these courses, it’s up to students to navigate their own way through complex material and find answers to questions. If you’re the type of learner who requires live support as you study construction, live training may be more suited to your needs.
Free resources are another way some learners approach studying construction. While content from online blogs, webinars, tutorials, and YouTube videos can be helpful in learning basic construction skills and concepts or in preparing for a small home renovation project, this type of training is rarely sufficient in itself to provide a robust understanding of construction. Free resources can be an excellent supplement for live construction training or self-paced courses and can also help individuals find answers to specific construction-related questions. However, most will find that they will benefit more from structured training in construction to use this skill set in a professional setting.
Learn Construction with Hands-on Training at VDCI
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.