Chance to build up a career
There is a host of opportunities for work in the construction industry
DOES the thought of being stuck behind a desk all day bring you out in a cold sweat? If so, a career in the construction industry could be right for you.
Whether you’re a school-leaver or a career-changer, it’s a job where you can build solid foundations for the future. It’s one of the biggest sectors in the UK, with aBOUT three million people working in construction in all different types of jobs.
Roofers, joiners, plumbers, welders, crane operators, general labourers – and dozens of other roles – all contribute to an industry responsible for building the world around us.
As well as the variety of jobs on offer, there’s a load of other reasons to consider working in construction.
You’ll learn new skills that will always be in demand, meet new people, work on interesting projects and quickly see the results.
You could be given the chance to travel, career progression opportunities and earning potential are both good, and it’s a job where you’ll never be bored.
Then there’s the sense of achievement you’ll feel knowing you’ve played a part in shaping the world we live in – from building houses, schools and hospitals to train stations and motorways.
If a career in construction sounds like it’s for you, there are several routes into the industry whether you have no qualifications or a degree under your belt.
An apprenticeship is a way to earn a wage, gain on-the-job experience and work towards an industryrecognised qualification.
Traineeships, work placements, graduate programmes and further education courses will also help you to gain the right skills and knowledge.
Qualifications available at colleges in Scotland include NPA Construction: Carpentry and Joinery, HNC Construction Engineering and HNC Construction Management.
It takes a certain type of person to be able to succeed in this kind of job.
You’ll need to be able to follow instructions, work well as part of a team, have good co-ordination skills and attention to detail, and be a decent multi-tasker.
You could be based on a building site, by the roadside or at a demolition site, so you will need to be prepared to work in all types of weather.
How much you take home each month will depend on the rates paid by your employer, how much experience you have and the potential for over-time.
If you’re after a career you can really build on, progression routes include specialising in a trade, site supervision or construction management.