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.
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.
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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.
Industries That Make Use of Construction
Because of how widespread construction projects are, knowledge of this subject matter has a range of uses across industries, including manufacturing, real estate development, transportation, healthcare, and energy production. The following sections will take a closer look at the role construction plays in each of these sectors, as well as some common projects construction professionals are likely to complete in these industries.
Manufacturing
Within the manufacturing sector, construction training is essential for creating and maintaining the facilities in which manufacturing-related tasks will take place. These include warehouses, production lines, and factories. Construction professionals create the infrastructure necessary to house and operate all equipment and manufacturing processes. This sector is often referred to as “industrial construction” and focuses on building structures that streamline production and improve workflow. Those who work in industrial construction may be hired to renovate existing facilities to include better layouts, improved technologies, and new equipment. They also may focus on more specialized design projects that focus on creating safe spaces for heavy machinery to operate.
Real Estate Development
Another industry that relies heavily on construction is real estate development. In this sector, the word “construction” pertains to the process of building a structure on a plot of land. This is a vital component of the development process because it involves translating design plans into a physical structure. Real Estate Development includes preparing sites, laying their foundations, framing them, adding exterior finishing, and building the interior space. The final product can be sold or leased.
Transportation
Within the transportation industry, construction training refers to the process of building and maintaining a range of infrastructure such as railways, bridges, roads, and airports. Those who work in this sector design the physical structures that facilitate how people and goods move via different modes of transportation. This may involve building new systems for transportation or updating those that are already in place. It also includes maintaining all construction projects taking place in active transportation locations to ensure traffic flow is disrupted as little as possible.
Healthcare
Construction is used in healthcare to build and renovate all sorts of medical facilities, including clinics and hospitals. The goal of this type of construction is to create environments in which patients’ well-being is the central focus, structures where they feel comfortable and have a positive medical experience. These structures should also facilitate staff efficiency. This involves incorporating design elements like privacy features, natural lighting, relaxing colors, and acoustics. It also may entail creating spaces in which specialized medical equipment can be stored and used safely or infection control regulations can be honored. Some common projects in healthcare construction include creating specialized surgical suites, building negative pressure rooms, or expanding patient recovery spaces.
Energy Development
Another sector where construction knowledge is of value is energy development. Within this industry, construction is necessary for harnessing and distributing a range of renewable energy sources, including geothermal, solar, and wind power. Construction professionals involved with energy development may focus on installing wind turbines or solar panels. They also may put up power lines or build facilities for energy storage. Some build energy-efficient buildings that are designed to minimize energy consumption. Each of these projects helps society move toward a cleaner energy grid.
Common Construction Job Titles
Construction jobs take many forms. There is a high demand for qualified construction workers because of how many new and ongoing construction projects are underway in the US at a given time. The need is expected to continue because new infrastructure is always being created, and the existing structures must be renovated and maintained. Studying construction is a great way to develop the practical skills needed to pursue a career in a range of career paths such as project management or carpentry. Those who learn construction can tailor their career path around their interests and skills and find niche work in fields like plumbing or electrical work or opt for general construction-related employment paths. The following sessions will take a closer look at a few popular career paths in construction, as well as the job requirements and salaries for each.
Architect
Architects are hired to consider clients’ specifications and desires when designing a building’s structure and appearance. These professionals plan, design, and oversee the entire building process. Some Architects focus on office buildings or other commercial properties, whereas others build residential structures or factories. They must also ensure that the designs they create adhere to established regulations, laws, and building codes. The average yearly salary is $93,000 for Architects who work in the US.
Carpenter
Carpenters rely on their woodworking training to cut, shape, and join wood and other materials for indoor and outdoor projects. They build, install, repair, or restore structures like homes, historic buildings, or new construction projects. On a daily basis, Carpenters work with tools to measure and cut wood, install structures and fixtures like doors and molding, evaluate and repair damaged structures, adhere to blueprints, and make drawings and drafts for clients. These skills require training in clear communication, safety protocol, mathematics, and problem-solving. Carpenters who work in the US make about $56,000 annually.
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineers rely on their knowledge of construction to plan, create, manage, and maintain a wide range of infrastructure and building construction projects. On a daily basis, these professionals design schematics, prototypes, and blueprints for products, structures, or equipment. Depending on their professional focus, they may evaluate rock and soil conditions to decide whether a proposed project will be stable and safe in that area. Some Civil Engineers create cost estimates for projects and design plans to execute them. Others hold supervisor positions in which they manage construction projects so that they satisfy all environmental and safety requirements. Some Civil Engineers focus on transportation systems like highways, airports, streets, and mass transit systems. Others are more involved with structural engineering projects, including evaluating how durable bridges and buildings are. In the US, the average pay for a Civil Engineer is $96,000 a year.
Electrician
Electricians apply their construction knowledge to tasks like installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in commercial, residential, or industrial units. This involves working with lighting, control systems, and electrical wiring. Electricians also evaluate circuit breakers, transformers, and other electrical components and troubleshoot electrical problems. They sometimes update outdated electrical components or replace them entirely. Some Electricians also oversee and train other electrical workers. The average salary for a US-based Electrician is about $62,000 annually.
Plumber
Another career path in which construction knowledge is useful is plumbing. Plumbers are professionals who perform a range of piping-related tasks. They install and fix pipes and fixtures like sinks, garbage disposals, and toilets. Some Plumbers repair gas piping, whereas others focus on water pipes. They work on residential, industrial, and commercial projects. These professionals may also be trained in how to install bathtubs or dishwashers. The yearly salary in the US for a Plumber is approximately $61,000 a year.
Construction Manager
Construction Managers put their construction training to use overseeing construction projects from conception to completion. They are involved with all aspects of construction, including budgeting, planning, and activity coordination. Construction Managers hire other professionals like Subcontractors to complete work on projects. They also regularly correspond with Engineers and Architects to ensure the project will be completed in a timely manner and will fall within the budget. They must be well-versed in building and compliance codes, as well as safety regulations. Construction Managers make approximately $105,000 a year in the US.
How to 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 in-person construction training the most interactive and engaging way to learn this skill set. Students attend class at a designated training facility located in or near a major city and use computers with the most current software 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 occur 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 with little or no 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.
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.