Tips on how to learn construction skills that advance your career
If you’re in the early stages of your career in construction, you may be wondering how to move up in the industry. Regardless of which trade you choose, opportunities for advancement are just around the corner with the right construction skills training. To help you take the next step in your career, PeopleReady Skilled Trades provides four ways that you can learn construction skills and gain more experience.
Boost your construction skills training with certifications
In the construction industry, it’s important to never stop learning. Additional skills and knowledge give you valuable expertise, and as you acquire certifications, you can establish yourself as a qualified tradesperson with dedication to your craft.
Certifications are available through agencies, associations and private companies to verify training in areas like safety, estimating and project management among others. While some certification programs require in-person classes, others can be completed online, giving you the flexibility to work while you learn. These opportunities can give you a competitive edge in the job market and open the door to new career paths.
Consider other construction learning and skills development opportunities
From plumbing to building maintenance, a variety of educational programs are available to help you take your construction learning to the next level. Plus, you broaden the list of jobs you’re qualified to do, improving your chances of finding construction jobs in the future.
With 88% of construction companies reporting recruitment difficulties, many of them are offering reskilling and upskilling opportunities for their workforce. These programs allow tradespeople to learn construction skills and stay updated on the latest industry tools and trends. That’s great news for you as you may be able to receive free construction skills training to advance your career.
One example of a construction skills program is WorkUp, a new program from PeopleReady Skilled Trades and PeopleReady that’s designed to identify and prepare workers for long, rewarding careers in the construction industry.
Network with peers and leaders in the construction industry
Training courses, workshops and conferences can not only help you learn new skills, but you get the chance to meet industry leaders and fellow tradespeople. As a result, you can exchange ideas, learn new ways to solve problems and build relationships. This can be a big advantage for career advancement as you grow a network of contacts who may recommend you for jobs in construction within their own companies.
Working for a staffing agency can also expand your skills and network while providing a number of other benefits. For example, PeopleReady Skilled Trades offers a referral program that connects people and work and can put extra money in your pocket. There’s no limit to how many tradespeople you can refer, so there’s no limit to how much you can earn.
Seek mentorship opportunities with construction leaders
Construction mentorship programs are common in the trades and benefit companies and workers alike. These programs give workers the opportunity to learn construction skills or develop them further. In turn, they also create development paths that lead workers to specialty roles and more career opportunities.
Many experienced workers are happy to act as mentors and can serve as a trusted resource throughout your career. Meanwhile, mentors also have their own connections to call upon. That means that they can point you in the right direction for where to apply for construction jobs. If they can’t provide insight into your specific field of interest, they likely know someone who can.
How to get a job in construction with PeopleReady Skilled Trades
If you’re wondering how to get a job in construction and build a lasting career, reach out to PeopleReady Skilled Trades. With jobs that require varying levels of experience across many different trades, we help tradespeople explore different career paths and find jobs in construction that are right for them.
Another way we show support for tradespeople is through our Respect the Craft program. By partnering with PeopleReady Skilled Trades, you can celebrate your success and earn recognition for your career development milestones.
Some of the jobs in construction we have available at PeopleReady Skilled Trades include:
- Carpenters
- Concrete workers
- Electricians
- Pipefitters
- Plumbers
- Sheet metal mechanics
- Welders
