Not all learners can wait many months or even years to acquire construction training. Some individuals such as those who need to put their training to use for a current or upcoming work project, will need a faster approach to training. Because construction training is in-demand in many industries to support ongoing building and maintenance projects, there are many resources available that can help expedite the learning process.
Read on to learn more about the benefits of learning construction, the best ways to learn this skill set quickly, and the resources and tools that are available that can significantly speed up the process.
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.
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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 knowledge of 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 Are the Basics Construction Skills I Can Learn Quickly?
Most learners won’t need to learn every construction skill initially. Instead, they can get started studying the basics and then build on this base as they continue learning and practicing. One of the most fundamental construction skills essential for aspiring professionals is learning how to read and interpret construction drawings and blueprints. This process involves learning how to understand the scale being used, read the legend, and interpret dimensions like width, length, and height. Blueprint reading also requires being familiar with the specifications section in which the materials, installation procedures, and standards are specified. Many blueprints also include information like section and elevation views, which learners will need to understand.
Another basic construction skill is technical knowledge. Although the specific technical training a construction professional needs will vary depending on the type of construction they hope to pursue and the needs of a given project, most will need to have at least a basic understanding of building materials and power tools, as well as when it’s appropriate to use each. It’s also important to learn about plumbing, surveying, masonry, ironwork, HVAC, framing, roofing, renovating, and demolition. While it takes time to study any one of these skills in-depth, most beginner-level training programs will provide students with an overview of each of these topics. Finally, beginner-level students may also wish to become familiar with the best installation practices for every element of a building, including its foundation and finishing work.
Project management training is another core competency most individuals will benefit from learning early on in their training. This includes how to make accurate cost estimates, schedule upcoming projects, and ensure quality control while completing a project. Additionally, knowledge of safety regulations and building codes is essential to ensure that the buildings and structures being created are up to code and offer essential safety features such as protection from fires. Familiarity with basic construction math is another core construction skill that’s essential to succeed in this field. This entails learning how to calculate load requirements, square footage, and the amount of material needed to complete a project.
Basic project management knowledge also involves learning soft skills relatively early in the study process. Training with time management, critical thinking, clear communication, attention to detail, and problem-solving are just a few of the soft skills beginners will benefit from acquiring when learning construction.
Resources to Help Learn Construction Quickly
If you’d like to learn construction quickly, the good news is that you don’t have to wait many months or even years to learn the basics. Many educational opportunities such as skills classes and bootcamps, can assist with the learning process and ensure you gain hands-on training in a relatively condensed timeframe.
Short skills classes are available in-person and online from many providers in the US. These classes are short and usually take just a few days to complete. Some programs require only one day of time. These programs are a great opportunity for students who are new to construction to learn the basics. In addition to providing beginner-friendly training, some skills courses also cover a specific construction-related topic such as fire protection, self-management, or site utilities. Since these classes can be completed in less than a week, learners can immediately apply their knowledge and skills to the real-world setting.
Bootcamps are also available in-person and online for those interested in a condensed type of construction training. These classes generally require several weeks or months to complete (depending on whether they’re attended part-time or full-time) and offer more in-depth instruction than that which is provided in skills courses. Bootcamps are available for learners at all levels. These programs often begin with introductory-level training and progress into intermediate and advanced-level topics, lesson by lesson. Graduates of bootcamps leave their training with the knowledge and training necessary to work confidently on small or large construction projects. In addition to providing hands-on instruction, some bootcamps also provide learners with additional professional development incentives like individual mentoring or career counseling.
Free Tools to Help Learn Construction
If you’re interested in learning construction but don’t want to invest hundreds, let alone thousands, of dollars in study, working with free resources can be a good option. There are many types of free resources available online such as webinars, blogs, research articles, tutorials, and YouTube videos. These vary considerably in length and depth. For example, learners can watch a short YouTube video in ten minutes or less that teaches fire safety construction best practices or select a longer video that spans more than two hours and provides an overview of the field of construction and the most essential tools professionals use.
Free construction training material is also offered by software providers like Autodesk. Autodesk’s website provides free construction training material such as short tutorials, quick-start guides, and expert tips. This site also has community forums where learners can find answers to specific questions or learn about different types of construction software. LinkedIn is also another good resource for finding free constitution information in its threads and groups. Learners can also read well-researched online construction tutorials like those offered by Noble Desktop to discover more about topics like how to work with Autodesk Revit to create sprinkler legends or building sections. Because free resources don’t involve any monetary commitment, they can be combined or used as a supplement to classwork to speed up the learning process and provide a more well-rounded understanding of construction.
Some educators, like Coursera and Udemy, also offer free self-paced construction courses that are available to learners at all levels. For example, Udemy’s Delivering the Perfect Construction Project takes less than an hour to complete and provides an overview of the stages of a construction project, basic construction management skills, and how to apply these skills to specific projects. Coursera offers Construction Project Management, which is a ten-module course intended for those seeking more in-depth, free training on construction management. Pre-recorded instruction is provided on topics like operations management, technology trends, supply chain and logistics, and project planning.
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.
What Can I Do to Learn More About Construction?
In addition to in-class training, a common way aspiring construction professionals learn this trade is by completing an apprenticeship. Trade apprenticeships are available in fields like electrical work, masonry, plumbing, or carpentry. During an apprenticeship, the participant is employed full-time at a construction site and works under the supervision of one or multiple construction professionals who have years of experience and real-world knowledge to share. This training provides a great opportunity for learners to gain hands-on training in a safe and controlled environment, where they will receive constructive feedback and guidance as they practice their skills and acquire new construction knowledge.
One of the main benefits of apprenticeships is that they provide a way for individuals to earn a wage while they gain valuable experience in a specific construction trade. Generally, apprenticeships require at least three or four years to complete to reach the level of Journeyman, at which time they can work independently.
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.