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.
How Much Construction Can I Learn in 3 Months?
Those willing to invest three months in studying construction will find that they can acquire a range of essential skills in this short timeframe. Enrolling in a live or self-paced construction class is an excellent way to expedite the learning process and receive hands-on training in a condensed timeframe. These courses are available to those who have no prior construction knowledge, as well as learners interested in taking their existing knowledge base further.
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In a beginner-friendly construction program, most students receive an overview of this field, including the core concepts and basic skills they’ll need to work professionally. This type of training starts with the basics, including how to follow essential safety procedures, read and understand blueprints, and use essential tools. Some programs, particularly live, introductory-level classes, provide learners with training on how to safely work with levels, power drills, measuring tapes, saws, and other core tools. Learners spend time exploring how to understand simple blueprints and identify the core elements of a building plan.
Coursework like bootcamps and certificate programs also teach participants entry-level tasks that will have applications in various trades, including framing, electrical work, masonry, or carpentry. This type of training is a great way to prepare for an entry-level construction job such as Helper or Laborer. In addition to technical skills and competencies, learners also learn soft skills necessary to work as part of a team on a construction site and handle any dynamic challenges that pop up while working. This involves developing clear written and verbal communication, teamwork, attention to detail, critical thinking, problem-solving, and time management.
Students who attend construction training programs are encouraged to continue practicing the skills they’re taught and applying them to real-world construction scenarios. While this process takes time and will likely extend beyond three months, the foundational skills learned during the first few months are essential for building a foundation on which further knowledge can be built.
What Will Impact How Quickly I Learn Construction?
No two learners are the same with regard to the skills they bring to the table, the way they process knowledge, and their ultimate goals for learning construction. A host of factors affect the speed by which most individuals learn construction, and each can play an integral role in their study speed.
If you’re just getting started learning construction and have no prior experience in this field, you will have to start from scratch with your studies. This means learning basic algebra and geometry, as well as other technical competencies. Those who already have a solid background in math or who have prior construction knowledge will not have to spend the same amount of time gaining this foundational training and can instead move on to other skills.
As mentioned in the prior section, the training format you select is a huge determinant of the speed with which you’ll learn construction. Skills programs require only a day or so to complete and offer real-world training. However, they rarely suffice to provide students with comprehensive construction training. Bootcamps and certificate programs usually offer more in-depth instruction and require weeks or months to finish (depending on whether they’re attended part-time or full-time). Graduates of these programs gain hands-on training in many in-demand construction skills and can put these to use as soon as they graduate. College study is the longest way to learn construction; it requires four or more years, a significant portion of which is spent on coursework that’s not necessarily related to construction.
Another essential factor in determining how long it will take you to learn construction is your ultimate goal for studying this field. If, for example, you only need to acquire a basic understanding of construction concepts and tools for a home renovation project or to correspond with contractors, you will need far less training than other learners. On the other hand, if you’re a professional who will need to use their training for an upcoming project, you will likely require a much more thorough understanding of construction concepts and advanced skills. This requires additional time and effort.
What Should I Learn Beyond 30 Days?
After you spend a month learning construction basics, either through directed or self-directed coursework, you may be curious about what to focus your training on. Most learners, especially those who intend to apply their training in the professional setting, will require more construction training than can be provided in a month to perform construction tasks independently. For these individuals, a skills class likely isn’t sufficient to learn the ins and outs of architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC). More advanced or in-depth training options are usually necessary to provide more robust training for these individuals.
Advanced construction classes differ in scope and content, depending on the provider and the program’s length. Some learners, especially those who have a solid foundation in construction concepts, may find it useful to focus on a specific type of software and gain certification with this tool. These individuals can opt for classes like the VCD Institute’s Revit MEP Certification Training Online. This rigorous, self-paced program is open to beginners and requires more than a month of training in mechanical, electric, and plumbing systems design. This bundled program teaches students how to work with Revit MEP and pass the Autodesk Certified Professional in Revit for Mechanical Design exam. Those seeking advanced-level training may also consider enrolling in the CAD/BIM Certification Program, which is also offered by The VCD Institute. This on-demand course takes several months to complete and prepares learners to work with both Revit and AutoCAD for drafting and BIM-related tasks. This certification is intended for construction professionals like Drafters, Designers, or Engineers who want to be job-ready and learn how to create professional-level digital designs for complex projects.
Some students of construction hope to apply their training to management-related roles such as Construction Manager or Project Manager. For these individuals, technical training is essential, but so too is knowledge of how to work with large projects. These individuals may opt to continue their training by enrolling in management-based programs. For example, VCDI has Construction Management II, a relatively short program that teaches essential skills like how to make accurate cost estimates, create work schedules, design contracts, and make critical project plans to ensure projects are executed in a timely and safe manner. Aspiring Project Managers may also want to learn soft skills to improve their collaborative skills and leadership potential. They can enroll in VCDI’s Teamwork, Collaboration, and Leadership, a short, self-paced class that teaches skills like sound decision-making and collaborative problem-solving.
Accelerated Construction Classes
Accelerated construction classes can be a good match for individuals who want to learn this skill set in a quick timeframe. However, this type of training isn’t for everyone. Before deciding if it’s right for you, it’s important to consider the advantages and drawbacks of this type of study.
Accelerated construction classes take many forms. Those seeking the fastest form of study can opt for a training class that takes just a few days (sometimes only one afternoon) to complete. These programs are available in-person, live online, and on-demand. Students can select from beginner-level coursework that provides an introduction to construction and teaches the basic tools and skills necessary to work in this field or opt for more specialized classes. Some examples of specialized coursework include construction courses that teach students about building enclosures, fire protection design, or construction management. One of the main benefits of these classes is their length; learners can complete training in less than a week and immediately use their skills. However, they likely will not have acquired in-depth knowledge of the subject matter in such a short timeframe.
Another type of accelerated training is available in the form of bootcamps. These programs range in length from several weeks to over a month. They are available in-person at training facilities, live online, and on-demand from many providers. Students who attend full-time can usually complete their training in a relatively condensed timeframe. One of the main benefits of bootcamp study is that it provides a more comprehensive form of instruction than a short skills class. Students spend their time completely immersed in their construction training and can focus entirely on this subject matter without other distractions (or unrelated coursework such as would be the case with college study). Graduates can get started using their training in the real-world setting as soon as they graduate. While bootcamps provide a more in-depth form of instruction than shorter classes, they may not be sufficient to master advanced-level construction skills such as installing HVAC systems or sprinklers in commercial buildings. Students seeking this type of advanced training may benefit more from a certificate program that offers the most comprehensive form of construction training.
Those who attend skills classes or bootcamps may wish to complete an apprenticeship once they graduate to put their training to use. These programs take three or more years to finish and allow learners to earn a wage while they receive hands-on training in a safe, supportive environment under the supervision of seasoned construction professionals.
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 remember 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 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.
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.