When you imagine a construction professional, does a man or woman come to mind?

It’s common for many people to think of a man, considering of all the people working in construction women comprise only 10.9% of the construction workforce.

However, women are continuing to be a growing and present force in shaping the U.S. construction industry. As new construction jobs are expected to reach nearly 2 million in 2022, construction unions and companies are looking to recruit more women into the field and leadership positions than ever before.

For women considering a career in construction, here are some ways to break into the industry and explore careers in construction.

1. Join Construction Focused Programs and Groups

There are a number of local and national organizations that provide resources for individuals looking to pursue a career in construction.

Nationally recognized groups such as the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) and Professional Women in Construction (PWC) provide mentorship, seminars, tips and networking opportunities for women entering the field. Another source is the Association of Women Contractors.

2. Learn about the Construction Industry

Another great online source to learn more about careers in construction is the website, ConstructionCareers.org. The website is maintained by the Construction Careers Foundation, a Minneapolis-St. Paul nonprofit dedicated to helping young people, and in particular, young women and people of color, learn about careers in construction.

The website is chock full of information about various construction careers – more than 30 in all – as well as apprenticeship programs offered by construction trade unions. The website also offers real-life stories of young people in middle school, high school and those in their 20s and 30s – all sharing their thoughts about careers in construction.

For women exploring careers in construction, start with the website’s Careers page, which profiles more than 30 careers. Then take a close look at the benefits of apprenticeship.

The Construction Careers Foundation also offers a person on their staff who works with students to navigate the process of starting a career in construction. As Trades Navigator, Sam Ebute works with youth, educators, apprenticeship candidates and parents interested in building a career in construction. Contact Sam Ebute, Trades Navigator, at at sam.ebute@constructioncareers.org.

3. Build your skills and confidence. Work hard.

While in high school, ask your career counselor how to sign up for construction-related courses. At your high school, these classes may fall under welding, shop classes, technology classes, engineering classes and additional STEM-related work.

“When you start off in these classes, you may be unfamiliar with the work but don’t let that deter you,” said Associate Director for the Construction Careers Foundation Mary Stuart. “Take these opportunities to ask questions and get familiar with the tools.”

The construction industry needs individuals who are willing to work hard and show a passion for their career. Taking courses that enhance your skills and knowledge make it that much easier for construction companies to hire you in the future.

4. Find a Mentor in the Trades

Women currently working in Minnesota’s construction industry are building the foundation for future women interested in pursuing a career in the trades. Connect with unions to inquire about speaking with a woman mentor in a specific trade. Finding a mentor in your trade of interest will provide you with insights on the demands of the career, pay, benefits and workplace culture.

For more stories about women in Minnesota’s construction trades, check out Success Stories on ConstructionCareers.org. Through these stories, real construction workers share their experience in Minnesota’s construction trades – how they got into the construction trades, why construction is right for them, and what they get out of their work.

Boilermaker Heather Rudiger

Heavy Equipment Operator Julia Theobald

Laborer Apprentice Mariah Lenon

Oiler Apprentice Annesa Loew

Plumbing Apprentice Carly Carey

Sprinkler Fitter Megan Ringwelski

Tile Setter Sharlo Strickler

ConstructionCareers.org also provides information about how to apply for an apprenticeship, what type of work is expected for each construction profession, and reasons why high school students should explore the trades while also exploring going to college or serving in the military.

Many Minnesota students take part in after-school and summer programming that caters to homework assistance, sports, and quality time with their peers. In St. Paul, The Flipside program goes one step further by engaging students in unique enrichment activities through numerous organizational partnerships that promote hands-on learning activities and helping students explore real life careers.

Flipside is part of Saint Paul Public School’s Community Education Department and is funded by the Federal government and administered by the Minnesota Department of Education as free summer programming for the entire St. Paul school district.

“From July 25 – July 28, we are running a pilot program where each of our community partners, such as Construction Careers Foundation, will run their own activity at our Central High School site,” said Darcy Holle, St. Paul Public Schools Program Coordinator. “We’re looking forward to hosting the Construction Careers Foundation and having them walk our students through careers in the construction trades and instruct students on interactive building projects.”

Lindsay Tallman is program director for the Construction Careers Foundation, a Minneapolis-St. Paul-based nonprofit dedicated to exposing young people, especially young women and people of color, to careers in construction. Tallman is thrilled to partner with Flipside because both programs provide students and their families with the opportunity to access construction activities that they may not otherwise get to experience. For the Construction Careers Foundation, the partnership allows the organization to give young people direct, hands-on experience with construction-related activities and introduces them to rewarding career in the trades.

This summer’s Flipside participants range from 5th to 9th grade and the program runs four days a week, providing free bus transportation and breakfast and lunch for the students.

The Construction Careers Foundation supplied funding to Flipside for materials for construction projects such as marshmallow launchers, bird feeders, popsicle bridges and tiling and grout for the top of a three-legged stool.

“STEM elements are present in all of our activities,” Tallman said. “It’s about showing students that the math they are learning is more than just equations on paper. These projects showcase real world applications and functions of math and students get to brainstorm the design process and get creative with their projects.”

Participants in the program will take part in team building activities and exercise their bodies and their creativity in a tool scavenger hunt and a personal protective equipment (PPE) race.

Holle and team are using the Flipside program as a trial for future partnerships with the hope that student response will be positive toward bringing the program back for another session this fall.

“Having a variety of community partners and activities to run allows us to evaluate our programming and assess students’ needs and interests,” Holle said. “We will check in with our students regularly and we plan to run focus groups throughout the duration of the program to see which projects and activities they respond to the best.”

Construction Careers Foundation and Flipside are eager to see the students’ response to the programming, but more than anything, both organizations are excited to provide students with opportunities to see their peers and have much-needed social interaction, which many students missed during the pandemic.

“We just want to see the students having fun outside of the normal school day,” Holle said. “We want to bring that joy back and get them using their hands and channel all of that pent up energy into constructing something. They need something fun right now and Construction Careers Foundation courses will give them that excitement back.”

Bring Construction Careers Foundation Activities to your Classroom 

Students, parents, and educators can visit ConstructionCareers.org to explore 30+ careers in the union construction industry, have access to valuable information regarding apprenticeships, read about the experiences of current construction apprentices in Minnesota, and more.

Interested in bringing construction career programming to your school? Connect with Construction Careers Foundation Program Director Lindsay Tallman at lindsay@constructioncareers.org.

A growing number of Minnesota teachers and guidance counselors are recognizing a frustration among their high school students – young people who know that college or the military isn’t right for them, but are not sure what else they could do for a career.

Julie Gloege, a special educator teacher for 15 years with Brooklyn Center High School in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area was one of them.

Seeing an opportunity to help these students, Julie Gloege changed the focus of her work taking by taking on the role of work-based learning coordinator at Brooklyn Center High School after seeing an intersectional opportunity among the high school’s students – an interest in Minnesota’s construction trades and a declining interest in pursuing a four-year college degree.

“It became obvious to me that there were students who did not have the resources or interest in going to college,” Gloege said. “Meanwhile, there’s a huge gap in Minnesota’s construction trades. The industry is very eager to attract a new generation of full-time professionals to establish long-term careers in the trades.”

The gateway to a career in the construction trades is apprenticeship, noted Gloege, where young people are paid for their work while they learn the trades. In addition, they receive a number of other benefits, including a pension and healthcare insurance.

In 2019, Gloege joined Step-Up, a Minneapolis-based program that connects Twin Cities employers with students through career internships and training, which in turn, builds careers and lead to a diverse, skilled and equitable workforce.

Building Better Futures

After Gloege saw her Brooklyn Center students get excited about hands-on building and construction trades training and real-world career exploration opportunities, she sought out more programs for students interested in learning about apprenticeship.

“I love my job because I help high school students align their skills and interests with career pathways they can follow after high school,” Gloege said. “We discuss vocational skills, take strength and skills aptitude tests, and evaluate students’ work preferences and career cluster results so that they can evaluate where their interests intersect with what they shine at.”

Gloege added that her students finish the semester by researching and presenting to their parents, faculty and peers on the top two careers that most align with their skills and interests.

“Students feel empowered by creating their own career paths and describing their futures,” Gloege said. “We even talk about where they will live after high school and create budgets to keep a reality check how much they might make and what they can afford.”

Gloege doesn’t want her youth to have sticker shock or be overwhelmed when they are made aware of costs, they didn’t foresee in life.

“It’s so common to see students being pushed by parents and staff to pursue college,” Gloege said. “Talking about debt is a conversation that needs to be had with students because it can follow you for your whole life and slow your progress toward some goals and aspirations.”

One-way Gloege is continuing to provide students glimpses of real workforce opportunities is through her professional speaker series.

“I want to show students that being smart comes in many forms and that success does not only look like becoming a doctor or a lawyer,” Gloege said. “I bring in established professionals in healthcare, construction trades, and the business world to answer questions from my students and share their journey about how they got where they are in their career.”

One such professional is her brother, Jesse, who works in Minnesota’s construction industry as a carpenter.

“My students love Jesse’s presentation,” Gloege said. “He comes fully equipped with his tools and gives many students their first experience with construction tools by showing them that being skilled at hands-on work can set them up for success.”

Youth Construction Experiences Springboard Students into Careers

“Within the Brooklyn Center school system, we do not currently offer construction courses,” Gloege said. “However, we do offer enrichment activities and connect students with construction trades summer paid internship programs to provide real work experiences.”

Gloege has taken her outreach a step further by connecting BrookLynk, a youth employment program dedicated to addressing regional talent and workforce needs with the Minnesota Trades Academy (MTA), a program that provides paid summer construction internship experience for selected Twin Cities area high school youth. A partnership pilot program begins this summer specifically designed for Twin Cities youth considering a career in construction.

“The Minnesota Trades Academy fosters an educational environment for our students to receive useful training, get paid to learn and eventually helps them make a more educated decision about what career path after high school is right for them,” Gloege said.

“We have forged and excellent relationship with BrookLynk and look forward to the results of the pilot program,” said Sarah Lechowich, Senior Director of the Construction Careers Foundation. “Many Brooklyn Center educators are seeing a renewed interest in the trades from their students and we can’t wait to provide skills training and connect them with a network of more than 30 different apprenticeships in Minnesota’s construction trades.”

Gloege is hopeful that with more construction trades offerings in Brooklyn Center’s school systems, students will find a career that is perfect for them and the skills gap currently presiding over Minnesota’s construction industry will close because of the renewed interest of ambitious young people.

“Yes, the construction trades are hard work, but so is every job,” Gloege said. “Construction professionals take pride in working with their hands and they receive some of the best benefit packages of any career field. I see so many students who would excel in this profession and I am glad I get to help them find a career that makes them excited to go to work.”

Members of Generation Z, born from 1995 to 2010, are true digital natives. This group of young people were born “plugged in” with access to the internet and a jungle of social media platforms.

As Gen Zs enter high school and think about their futures, they have ample access to information about potential career pathways, salaries and the requirements of work.

Internationally, Gen Z has surpassed millennials as the largest generation, making up 32% of the global population, reports Bloomberg.

The oldest Gen Zs are 24 years old and currently make up a relatively small portion of the U.S. workforce (11.6% in 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.)

As these young people begin to seek jobs, they will become as much of a driving force in our global economy as millennials.

One such market that Gen Z can flood with success is the construction industry. Presently, the United States construction industry is already seeing trends toward labor shortages and totes an aging workforce. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average age of a construction worker is 42.5 years old. Gen Zs can fill these labor and skills gaps.

How to Recruit and Retain Gen Z

Here are four things a Gen Z professional is looking for in their career.

1. Technology

Many Gen Zs don’t know a world without smart phones, social media and the internet. Their knowledge of technology is integrated into their homelife and educational up brining. Gen Zs can influence how tech is used in a professional setting because it is viewed as essential, portable, and innovative.

It is going to become increasingly important to continue bringing new technology into the construction industry to keep up with industry demand. With new, exciting, and up-to-date technology, especially in the areas of renewable energy, infrastructure changes and environmental concerns, Gen Z will become eager to join an industry that invests in integrating new machinery and technology into everyday jobs. In turn, generation Z will use new tech to complete their work and remain efficient.

2. Financial Security

Gen Z is worried about finances and being able to afford housing, healthcare and paying off debts. They were raised during the recession and as student loans and healthcare costs mounted.

When surveyed, 46% of Gen Z say that their biggest financial concern is student debt. This is likely because the cost of a college degree has increased 102% in the past decade, and Gen Z is aware of that.

Careers in construction offer apprenticeship training for specific trades where students can earn a wage while learning hands-on skills. Apprenticeship and technical colleges offer construction skills without the same debt load as 4-year-universities, an appealing benefit to Gen Z.

3. Diversity

For Generation Z, diversity is not just preferred in a work environment; it is expected. According to Pew Research Center, Gen Z grew up as the most racially and ethnically diverseAmerican generation to date.

As the construction industry continues to encourage diversity, Gen Z will be driven to the industry and its opportunities for minorities. For the industry, it is going to become increasingly important to continue promoting diversity both internally and externally.

4. Career Advancement

Raised by Gen X, members of Generation Z were taught the importance of independence, self-motivation and success. In turn, Gen Z pushes themselves to be successful and they seek careers with opportunities to grow, manage and lead teams.

As Boomers retire out of the construction industry, there is ample opportunity for career advancement and leadership positions available for Gen Zers to compete for.

For Generation Z, the construction industry offers the opportunity for long-term stable careers. The industry itself is growing increasingly diverse and both companies and construction unions prioritize investment in learning and incorporating new technologies onto the jobsite. For Gen Zers concerned with taking on debt through university, the construction industry offers a number of pathways to a career in the trades through trade schools, union apprenticeships, contract work and more.

Start a conversation on what a career in construction might look like for your Gen Z student. Explore more than 30 of Minnesota’s construction trades here. https://constructioncareers.org/careers/

The Minnesota Trades Academy (MTA) paid summer construction trades internship program, a program of the Construction Careers Foundation, will host more than 40 student interns this summer who will explore careers in Minnesota’s building trades and construction industry.

The Minnesota Trades Academy provides training and mentorship to Twin Cities-area students, ages 16 to 21 years old, and is supported by more than 20 local building and construction trade unions.

The Minnesota Trades Academy partners with Minneapolis Step Up, St. Paul Right Track, Ramsey County’s Hired and Brooklyn Centers’ BrookLynk in hosting its program each summer.

The program consists of two tracks of study, which include:

• Track I internship program focuses on hands-on building with tools and an introduction to construction career opportunities.
• Track II focuses on guiding students interested in a career in construction through apprenticeship union training center tours, including training in how to participate in an interview, often one of the first steps in securing a real-life apprenticeship with a Minnesota construction trade union.

The Minnesota Trades Academy program runs from June 21 – August 11, 2022, and interns work from 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. four days a week.

“This year we have great trainers for the students. Our trainers serve as mentors to students and each have personal connection and experience with working in the construction industry, so students can really ask them anything,” said Lindsay Tallman, Program Director for the Construction Careers Foundation.

Building Community through the Minnesota Trades Academy 

“Our student interns receive mentorship, tour union apprenticeship training sites and work on real projects that impact their local communities such as refurbishing a deck for an elderly resident or building a ticket booth for their school’s sports stadium,” Tallman said.

The Minnesota Trades Academy provides students with 20-30 hours a week of paid learning.

“For some interns, MTA replaces their summer job search because they earn $15/hour learning trades skills with us,” Tallman added.

Year-Round Support for Students Interested in the Trades

Sam Ebute serves as the Trades Navigator for the Construction Careers Foundation and students connect with him year-round with apprenticeship and career questions. During the summer, Ebute is a trainer for students in the Minnesota Trades Academy. He connects participants with career opportunities made available by Construction Careers Foundation stakeholders, such as construction trade unions, as well as union training centers and signatory contractors.

Learn more about Sam Ebute’s role as Statewide Trades Navigator.

About the Construction Careers Foundation

The Construction Careers Foundation is a Twin Cities-based nonprofit dedicated to fostering and developing construction career pathways for Minnesotans, especially young adults. With funding from the Minnesota State Legislature and oversight from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), the Construction Careers Foundation conducts a statewide effort to attract more people, in particular, young people, women and people of color, into the construction trades to support the Minnesota construction industry. To learn more about the Construction Careers Foundation, visit ConstructionCareers.org.

Learn2Build, a hands-on, in-school program designed to introduce middle school students to careers in Minnesota’s construction industry, hosted a Learn2Build program on June 10 in White Bear Lake School Independent District 624 – engaging seventy 5th-grade students at White Bear Lake’s Otter Elementary School.

Through support from the Construction Careers Foundation, a Twin Cities-nonprofit that is dedicated to introducing young people to careers in construction, Learn2Build offers curriculum materials and supplemental resources to middle school teachers for implementation in their classrooms.

Construction Careers Foundation Program Director Lindsay Tallman and Learn2Build Program Manager Mary DesJarlais partnered with Otter Elementary School to pilot a program that gives younger students an opportunity to be creative and gain hands-on experience using tools relied upon by real construction workers.

Through Learn2Build, middle school students engage in exciting activities focused on the construction building trades industry. Students work individually and in teams to learn about construction concepts such as energy, the environment and structural design.

“We were thrilled to bring this opportunity to our youngest group of students yet,” Tallman said. “Some might argue it’s too young for students to be talking about careers, but we’re opening students’ eyes to different jobs that their guardians or family members might have.”

Tallman added that Learn2Build offers an opportunity for students to release their energy, use fine motor skills, and work in teams to create something they can be proud of.

“During our Otter Elementary School Learn2Build event, students built birdhouses,” Tallman said. “This project involved using math skills such as measuring and practicing with real tools such as hammers. Sometimes these projects tested the patience of some  students, while at the same time, reinforced practicing a skill several times and following directions.”

Expansion of Learn2Build Partners in the Greater Metro Area

Tallman and DeJarlais look forward to continuing to build partnerships with elementary and middle schools throughout Minnesota.

“We have a number of ways to engage students through Learn2Build such as with in-person events hosted by a school or with take-home skills kits,” DesJarlais said. “Our take-home kits were especially successful during the pandemic. More than 2,000 kits were dispersed to students when we couldn’t gather in person.”

DeJarlais added that the kits — initially created to bring students an interesting activity and joy during the pandemic — continue to be shared with afterschool programs to get students excited about building.

“The practical applications of learning how to use a tool, follow a blueprint, or learning how to measure something, are not just great skills for a career in the construction industry,” DesJarlais said. “These are skills that these students can use throughout their entire lives. These skills are applicable to fixing things around the house, being creative and making or building something. By empowering students to use tools, we are encouraging them to be imaginative and inventive.”  

Importance of Construction Curriculum 

The Learn2Build program is a steppingstone to exploring Minnesota’s construction industry.

“We want to pique students’ interest in construction early on,” Tallman said. “We believe that there is a career for everyone in construction and that the growing field of construction has so much to offer in the coming years from new types of infrastructure to environmental design, to engineering the world we live in.” 

Future Learn2Build Events

Want to learn more about Learn2Build? Visit our website.

Find Learn2Build events this summer at:

July 20 North/Tartan High School Career Expo Event

North High School @ 2416 11th Ave East, North St. Paul

July 25-28, Flipside Summer Camp

Central High School @ 275 Lexington Pkwy North, St. Paul

August 8-10 YWCA Minneapolis Summer Camp

Dunwoody College @ 818 Dunwoody Blvd, Minneapolis

If you’re considering a career in construction the first step is exploring your career options. With more than 30 possible career pathways in Minnesota alone, you can review what skills and knowledge separate careers in carpentry from masonry, plumbing, welding and more.

All these career options can be overwhelming, so another step to help you narrow down your interests is considering what environment you want to work in – residential or commercial construction.

Overview: Residential Construction Work

Residential construction is sometimes called “home construction.” It involves the building and selling of both individual and multi-family dwellings. While residential construction encompasses “new construction” projects such as building homes, there are also plenty of work opportunities that fall under home renovation or remodeling projects.

There are many types of buildings that fall under this category including:

• Townhomes

• Condominiums

• Single-family homes

• Duplexes, triplexes and fourplexes

“Residential construction work often focuses on timber framing and piping projects and doesn’t frequently require lots of large heavy equipment,” said Mary Stuart, Associate Director of the Construction Careers Foundation, a Twin Cities nonprofit that introduces young people to careers in construction through educational opportunities.

Residential construction workers may specialize in a craft and be recruited to work on teams or work in tandem with contractors, architects, and builders to ensure a home is built on time, to code and on budget.

On a residential job site, you will find:

• Cement Masons 

• Cabinet Makers  

• Roofers 

• Plumbers 

• Electricians 

• Drywallers 

Overview: Commercial Construction Work

Commercial construction projects are for the building and selling of business structures and anything not for residential living. Often business owners, managers, and developers hire general contractors to build or remodel their commercial structures. Typically, these are large buildings utilize steel instead of timber framing.

Commercial construction covers projects such as:

• Offices

• Retail buildings

• Hospitals

• Schools and Universities

• Sports Facilities

• Industrial workspace

• Large-scale housing structures like apartments

The commercial construction work setting looks very different from residential work. On site, you will often see cranes, large heavy equipment and lots of huge metal beams and large windowpanes. While some trades professionals such as plumbers and electricians have skills that can be used on both sites – throughout their training it recommended they pick between residential or commercial work. It is not recommended that they cross into both workspaces because of different codes and safety regulations.

On a commercial job site, you will find:

• Operating Engineers

• Glazier and Glassworkers

• Sheet Metal Workers

• Laborers

• Pile Drivers

• Ironworkers

• Boilermakers

Both residential and commercial construction industries offer successful and profitable long-term career paths, however, the types of careers and skills required on the job may differ between the fields. The two work settings vary from the building materials used, to the equipment necessary for construction, right down to the way each construction project is funded.

If you’re having trouble deciding which construction career is right for you, take a step back and consider whether working in residential or commercial construction is your preferred work setting.

To explore a career in construction through the apprenticeship pathway or continue to investigate careers in construction visit ConstructionCareers.org.

When it comes to students’ different learning styles and working preferences, careers in Minnesota’s construction industry boast a variety of accredited, post-secondary learning opportunities that help students assess their interests and pursue the line of education that best aligns with their career goals and learning style.

“A career in construction offers numerous areas for advancement. For example, you could join an apprenticeship and learn hands-on skills to become a sought-after trades professional in a field like cement masonry or carpentry, or you can take on college courses to manage a team or become a surveyor,” said Mary Stuart, Associate Director of the Construction Careers Foundation, a Twin Cities nonprofit that introduces young people to careers in construction through educational opportunities.

The Construction Career Foundation’s priority audience is reaching students who are making the big decisions about what’s next for them after high school.

“We educate students, guardians, and counselors that a young person’s choice to pursue a career in construction has many learning and skill building pathways,” Stuart said. “Once he/she becomes a journey worker or professional tradesperson, that is not the end of the road – there are more educational opportunities offered to build skills and grow a career.”

Here are four post-secondary pathways to a career in construction:

Apply For Union Apprenticeship

There are two types of apprenticeship programs: Registered apprenticeship programs (RAPs), or non-registered programs, also known as industry-recognized apprenticeship programs (IRAPs).

RAPs have been validated either federally by the U.S. Department of Labor or locally by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), and meet specific standards set by those agencies. IRAPs are not registered with a government agency and are not tied to the government requirements.

“Minnesota has more than 11,000 registered apprentices, over 10,000 are in union construction apprenticeship programs,” according to Jennifer Hathaway, communications manager for the Minnesota Building and Construction Trades Council. “The union construction industry has 54 privately funded registered apprenticeship programs around the state, serving as the primary training pipeline for people entering the construction industry.”

Registered apprentices receive wages for their on-the-job work, which increase incrementally as they progress through their apprenticeship training. In other words, they get paid to learn the skills they will use in their careers.

“Apprentices get paid to learn the skills they need for their construction career through in-classroom learning and on-the-job training,” said Mary Stuart. “Due to the high demand for craft professionals many unions have scholarships available to decrease or eliminate tuition costs and they will often directly hire apprentices to full-time positions upon completion of the program.”

In general, apprenticeship programs can last up to four years and during this time apprentices also earn additional industry recognized credentials and certifications to represent their skills and knowledge progression. For some professions, passing a state-administered exam is required at the end of the apprenticeship to obtain a license to work in a trade.

Enroll for An Associate Degree

Local community colleges also offer degree programs relevant to the construction industry, like an Associate of Applied Science (AAS). For a fraction of the cost of university tuition, students get experience in classes that cover topics like hand tools, masonry and power tools.

Often specialized trade classes are also available such as wiring, plumbing, and blueprint reading. The average associate degree takes two years to complete, so it’s a fast-track way to start a career in construction.

Get an Undergraduate Degree

Many universities offer different construction-based degrees. After reviewing the educational requirements of each major such as course subjects and program lengths, students can pursue a major that matches his/her professional interests.

Considering pairing an interest in construction with a 4-year degree, consider:

• Civil engineering
• Management
• Residential construction technology

Seek out Certifications

Certifications can also satisfy education and training requirements for the construction industry. Every time you earn a certification, it’s proof that you are actively practicing and updating your skills and are working toward comprehensive industry knowledge. Certifications can be provided through apprenticeship opportunities, university, a construction employer or sought out online.

Some examples of skills you can earn certifications for are:

Blueprint reading

Inspecting a site

Reviewing building codes

Checking electrical wiring

“We encourage students to look for certifications that tailor to their career interests, or are related to on-the-job safety training requirements,” Stuart said. “Certifications can always be updated to reflect what career a student pursues, and the process prepares them for their ongoing professional journey.”

Get Your Education in Construction

There are many ways to start a career in construction. Education requirements can be fulfilled through degrees, certifications or signing up for real-life industry experience through an apprenticeship. Share Construction Careers Foundation’s website ConstructionCareers.org with students and their guardians to help them understand what careers in the trades offer and find the best professional fit for their future career.

Plumbing and pipefitting are often confused with each other. While both professions have similarities such as installing, maintaining and repairing pipes, it is important to understand the differences between the two crafts when applying for apprenticeship.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics categorizes plumbing and pipefitting jobs in the same group, so let’s break down these two alike but unique craft professions.

What do Plumbers and Pipefitters do?

According to NCCER, “Plumbers install and repair the water, waste disposal, drainage and gas systems in homes and commercial and industrial buildings. Pipefitters, on the other hand, install and repair both high- and low-pressure pipe systems used in manufacturing, in the generation of electricity, and in the heating and cooling of buildings.”

A plumber’s duties include:

• Fixing and replacing water fixtures.
• Assembling, installing, repairing, and maintaining water supply systems, drain systems, and gas systems.
• Unclogging pipes and drains.

Plumbers do a lot more than unclog toilets, fix sinks and garbage disposals – just ask Carly Carey. She was inspired to become a plumbing apprentice after watching home remodels on HGTV. Read Carey’s story.

“Success to me is having the skills and knowledge to be a master at my work and then be able to teach and mentor other women and minority members in the trades,” Carey said. “I love my work. I love building relationships within my union and within my community. Taking time to reflect on my own interests and career aspirations has changed my life for the better; I hope other women do the same.”

Most states also require a plumber to pass an exam and get a license to practice.

Education extends far beyond the boundaries of the traditional four-year university degree. Plumbers will undergo several years of learning both on the job and in the classroom before reaching journeyperson level.

A pipefitter’s duties include:

• Assembling, installing, repairing, and maintaining pipes that transport chemicals and gases, as well as pipe systems that generate electricity and heat.
• Work with pipes that handle high pressure materials.

“The work of plumbers and pipefitters seems similar, but we see a big difference in the substances that their pipe systems deal with,” said Sam Ebute, Construction Careers Foundations’ Trades Navigator. “Plumbers mostly deal with water and water-based systems, while pipefitters often deal with the transport of chemicals.”

Here’s an example: Plumbers work on systems that transport clean water for drinking and bathing while removing wastewater from toilets and sinks. Pipefitters more commonly handle systems that transport other types of substances, such as chemicals, which often means working with systems that use different materials that endure higher pressure.

Plumbers commonly work with copper and PVC piping, while pipefitters use heavier materials and different kinds of metal.

Differences in Skills

Plumbers and pipefitters master and apply many similar skills, such as dexterity, an understanding of math and physics, and the ability to read blueprints. Due to the greater complexity of the systems and the nature of the materials they work with, pipefitters may also require additional skills like welding and knowledge of metallurgy.

Differences in the Workplace

Both plumbers and pipefitters can be found on construction sites of all types, but most of their work comes on different types of projects.

“Plumbers tend to work more in residential and commercial locations like homes and apartments,” Ebute said. “Plumbers lay out the pipework for kitchens and bathrooms during construction and help to repair these systems as needed as well as help install the appliances that use these systems, like refrigerators and washing machines.”

Pipefitters, on the other hand, tend to work in factories and other industrial settings installing and maintaining heavy-duty and high-pressure pipes that are crucial to the operations of that facility, such as manufacturing or energy generation.

Ready to Start a Career in Plumbing or Pipefitting?

Check out the ConstructionCareers.org to plan your own apprenticeship path towards being a plumber or pipefitter. The Construction Careers Foundation website has all the information you need to find a rewarding career in the building and construction trades.

Minnesota construction trade apprenticeship application deadlines are fast approaching for January. Three local building and construction trades unions have applications due within the coming weeks, offering an opportunity for young people who are at least 18 years old and have completed their high school education or equivalent to apply.

Minneapolis Plumbers JATC Local #15, January 3-27, 2022, 8:30 am – 2:30 pm, Monday – Thursday

Plumbers install piping systems that carry liquids, gasses, and waste for residential, commercial and industrial operations. Plumbers also install fixtures such as sinks, toilets, water heaters, drinking fountains, bathtubs and showers in homes, businesses, schools, and hospitals among other places.

Like most trades, plumbers may work in the extreme heat of summer and harsh cold of winter. Ladders and lifts are used to work in elevated or confined spaces.

Plumbers also must be good at communicating their ideas, especially if the work is done in residential areas or in teams. Knowledge of a variety of tools and being cautious and aware of safety practices always ensures a plumber gets the job effectively. High school students preparing to become a plumber should seek out part-time jobs that require being physically fit and outdoors in a variety of conditions.

The Minneapolis Plumbers JATC Local #15 is only accepting applications in person for this apprenticeship program.

Application Guidelines:

Plan for about an hour and a half to apply and take required aptitude tests. Once the process is started the applicant must complete it. Please plan time accordingly.

Applicants will take a basic math and verbal skills test, as well as a mechanical aptitude test and a risk assessment. Consider reviewing basic algebra skills, fractions, percentages etc.

Required items to bring: Bring an electronic copy of your high school diploma, high school transcript, or GED.  Be sure to have a copy that can be accessed by email. Applicants will be provided with secure access to email in the JATC computer lab, so that they can receive the link to the application and testing. Part of the application requires that applicants upload their high school diploma, transcript, or GED, so they must be able to submit this via email. This is required. Applicants may also submit any additional documents at this time (letters of recommendation, resume, etc.).

Applicants will be required to have their temperature taken at the JATC thermal scanner, use the hand sanitizer, and be correctly wearing a mask before being admitted to the building. Properly worn masks are always required while in the building. Masks are provided if needed. Social distancing measures will be in place.

Location: 8625 Monticello Lane North, Suite 2, Maple Grove MN 55369. Enter at the north entrance, under the Training Center awning.

What’s next after tests are completed? Applicants will receive an email once they have successfully completed the application process and tests, with information regarding the next steps. This email will not be sent before January 28th. Please look for it by February 4th. Email updates will be sent to the email address the applicant provided.

Those interested in a career in pipefitting can visit the Construction Career Foundation’s Plumbing page to access key information regarding the trade, including wages, benefits, and recommended high school courses.

Pipefitters Local #539, January 1-14

 The application for a pipefitting apprenticeship with Local #539 will open the first week of January, and will close on Friday, January 15, 2022, at 3:00 p.m.

Pipefitters install, maintain, and repair high and low-pressure steam systems, high and low-pressure hot water systems, snow-melting systems, refrigeration systems, heating, gas and oil piping, pneumatic electronic controls, and air conditioning units. Pipefitters install systems in high or enclosed spaces and in all types of weather conditions.

Students with an affinity for problem-solving, who want to utilize mechanical skills, and who are physically strong will be a great fit for an apprenticeship and career in pipefitting.

Pipefitters Local Union #539 has jurisdiction over 22 counties in central Minnesota. There are two tracks that apprentices can take within this union: Construction Pipefitting and HVAC/R Service Application.

Students who wish to enter the HVAC/R Service Application track must first complete a two-year Technical College Day school course in residential and commercial HVAC/R service. Students who wish to enter the Construction Pipefitting track must have a high school diploma or state-issued GED certificate and be at least 18 years of age.

If your application and all required attachments are not received by Friday, January 15, 2022, at 3:00 p.m., the application will be considered incomplete, and the applicant will have to reapply the following year. All applications must be completed online and will only be available between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

After submission of the application, applicants will begin the interview process with the union.

To learn more about the application process or view qualifications, click here.

Those interested in a career in pipefitting can visit the Construction Career Foundation’s Pipefitting page to access key information regarding the trade, including wages, benefits, and recommended high school courses.

Sprinklerfitters Local Union #417, January 10-21

Applications for an apprenticeship through the Sprinklerfitters Local Union #417 will be open from January 10-21, 2022. During this time, interested applicants should visit the website to view the link to the online application.

Sprinkler fitters install sprinkler fire protection systems. These trade professionals work in existing and newly constructed buildings, in conditions ranging from hot boiler rooms to unheated open buildings at winter temperatures. Most of the work takes place at the ceiling level using ladders and lift platforms at heights generally ranging from 8 to 20 feet, and, in some cases, up to 100 feet.

Students who are mechanically inclined, have a history of taking auto body mechanics and robotics classes, and who consider themselves to have great attention to detail will be well-suited for an apprenticeship and career in sprinkler fitting.

Local Union #417’s apprenticeship program is a 5-year program, where students will complete a minimum of 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and a minimum of 800 hours of classroom instruction. Classroom training is completed 1 or 2 nights a week throughout the year.

Following submission of the application, qualified applicants will be interviewed in February or March.

To apply and learn more about the program, click here. Those interested in sprinkler fitting can visit this page to learn more about the trade and get connected to the local union in their area.

Interested in an apprenticeship?

We have your back. The Construction Career Foundation is the leading resource for information regarding construction apprenticeship in Minnesota. Check out our website for more information on the many apprenticeship opportunities available for Minnesota youth.

Minnesota construction trade apprenticeship application deadlines are fast approaching for the months of December and January. Three local unions and two universities have applications due within the coming weeks:

• International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Union 343
• The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities: Construction Management program
• Minnesota State University, Mankato: Construction Management program
• Pipefitters Local Union #539
• Sprinklerfitters Local Union #417

December 15: Electrical Trades Apprenticeship with IBEW Local 343

The application deadline for a registered electrical trades apprenticeship with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), Local 343 is December 15, 2021.

As an electrical apprentice, you will learn to work with diverse electrical formulas and computations. As a construction electrician, you will lay out, assemble, install and test electrical circuits, fixtures, appliances, equipment and machinery. Construction electricians are craft workers, and like all genuine skilled workers, they derive satisfaction from using both their minds and hands in a constructive manner.

IBEW Local 343 represents construction professionals and apprentices from 26 counties in southern Minnesota. IBEW Local 343 conducts its apprenticeship programs through the South Central Minnesota Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (JATC). The JATC is a specialized group that oversees the training and education of electrical apprentices.

Though the electrical JATC accepts applications year-round, 8:00 am to 3:30 pm, Monday through Friday, applicants will need to submit their online application by December 15, 2021, if they wish to take their assessment test in January and complete their interview in February.

Applicants can wait until the December 16 – March 1 application period to apply, but they will have to wait until March to take their assessment test, and April to complete an interview.

If applicants prefer a paper application, please email Apprentice Administrator, Julie Strike, at jstrike@scmnjatc.org to request one. Applicants should note that upon completing the application, they will be required to submit a $25 application fee.

To view the official application schedule, learn more about the program, or apply for an apprenticeship, click here.

To view wages, recommended high school classes, career requirements, and to find the local electrical trades union in your area, visit the Electrical Trades page on the Construction Career Foundation website.

December 1: Construction Management at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities

The deadline to apply to the University of Minnesota’s construction management program for Spring Semester 2022 is December 1, 2021.

Construction managers plan and oversee construction projects. Students who consider themselves strong leaders and have organizational, analytical, technical, and communication skills will be well suited for the profession.

The University of Minnesota’s program offers students both field experience and class instruction. There are five tracks (sub-plans) that a student can take in the program: Commercial, Environmental Health and Safety, Facility Management, Highway Heavy/Civil Works, and Residential. Along with specialized courses in construction management, students will need to take 32-34 credits of liberal education courses to complete the degree.

Graduates of the program will receive a bachelor’s degree in construction management and be equipped with relevant knowledge and job connections in the field.

The application does not require an ACT/SAT score submission, an essay, or letters of recommendation.

With questions about admissions, call Professor Willie Wong at 612-625-2529, or submit a form on the website.

Learn more about the program or apply here.

To learn more information about a career in Construction Management and explore other programs in the state of Minnesota, visit the Construction Managers section of ConstructionCareers.org, here.

January 2: Minnesota State University, Mankato Construction Management Degree

The deadline to apply to Minnesota State University, Mankato’s Construction Management Program is January 2, 2022. Spring semester begins January 10, 2022, and completed applications, paper or online, must be submitted with all required materials no less than five working days prior to the start of classes.

Construction managers plan and oversee construction projects from beginning to end, making it the perfect career for students with strong leadership skills. Students who have organizational, analytical, technical, and communication skills will be well suited for the profession.

There are many careers that fall under construction management, such as Field Engineer, Quality Insurance Inspector, Cost Estimator, Scheduler, Construction Manager, Project Controls Manager, and Owner Representative. Students who prefer project-based learning will thrive in this program.

Ranked among the top 10 Best Construction Management Degree Programs, Mankato’s Construction Management department offers a mentoring program, which allows students the chance to receive one-on-one mentoring from the industry’s professionals. Graduates of the program will receive a Bachelor’s of Science (B.S.) in Construction Management.

The program, accredited by the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE), requires 120 credits in order to graduate. Examples of classes students will take in this major are Principals of Physics, Construction Materials and Methods, Construction Project Management, and Civil Engineering Measurements. The program also requires the completion of six general education courses and electives, an internship and a capstone project. View the remainder of the courses required by this program here.

Interested students can contact Vincent Winstead, Interim Chair of Construction Management with questions about the program. He can be reached at 507-389-5456 or vincent.winstead@mnsu.edu.

Applications for the program can be filled out online or on paper, and are accepted either online or by mail. Click here to apply.

To access a holistic resource regarding construction management careers and apprenticeships in the state of Minnesota, click here.

January 1-14: Pipefitters Local #539

The application for a pipefitting apprenticeship with Local #539 will open the first week of January, and is due Friday, January 15, 2022, at 3:00 p.m.

Pipefitters install, maintain, and repair high and low-pressure steam systems, high and low-pressure hot water systems, snow-melting systems, refrigeration systems, heating, gas and oil piping, pneumatic electronic controls, and air conditioning units. Pipefitters install systems in high or enclosed spaces and in all types of weather conditions.

Students with an affinity for problem-solving, who want to utilize mechanical skills, and who are physically strong will be a great fit for an apprenticeship and career in pipefitting.

Pipefitters Local Union #539 has jurisdiction over 22 counties in central Minnesota. There are two tracks that apprentices can take within this union: Construction Pipefitting and HVAC/R Service Application.

Students who wish to enter the HVAC/R Service Application track must first complete a two-year Technical College day school course in residential and commercial HVAC/R service. Students who wish to enter the Construction Pipefitting track must have a high school diploma or State-issued GED certificate, and be at least 18 years of age.

If the application and all required attachments are not received by Friday, January 15, 2022 at 3:00 p.m, the application will be considered incomplete, and the applicant will have to reapply the following year. All applications must be completed online, and will only be available between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Along with completing the application, applicants must provide a photocopy of their high school diploma or official transcript, or a State-issued GED certificate.

After submission of the application, applicants will begin the interview process with the union.

To learn more about the application process or view qualifications, click here.

Those interested in a career in pipefitting can visit the Construction Career Foundation’s Pipefitting page to access key information regarding the trade, including wages, benefits, and recommended high school courses.

January 10-21: Sprinklerfitters Local Union #417

Applications for an apprenticeship through the Sprinklerfitters Local Union #417 will be open from January 10-21, 2022. During this time, interested applicants should visit the website to view the link to the online application.

Sprinkler fitters install sprinkler fire protection systems. These trade professionals work in existing and newly constructed buildings, in conditions ranging from hot boiler rooms to unheated open buildings at winter temperatures. Most of the work takes place at the ceiling level using ladders and lift platforms at heights generally ranging from 8 to 20 feet, and, in some cases, up to 100 feet.

Students who are mechanically inclined, have a history of taking auto body mechanics and robotics classes, and who consider themselves to have great attention to detail will be well-suited for an apprenticeship and career in sprinkler fitting.

Local Union #417’s apprenticeship program is a 5-year program, where students will complete a minimum of 8000 hours of on-the-job training and a minimum of 800 hours of classroom instruction. Classroom training is completed 1 or 2 nights a week throughout the year.

Following submission of the application, qualified applicants will be interviewed in February or March.

To apply and learn more about the program, click here.

Those interested in sprinkler fitting can visit this page to learn more about the trade, and get connected to the local union in their area.

Interested in an apprenticeship?

We have your back. The Construction Career Foundation is the leading resource for information regarding construction apprenticeship in Minnesota. Check out our website for more information on the many apprenticeship opportunities available for Minnesota youth.

Deciding to leave the military might be as big of a step as deciding to join. Justin Rost, Director of Minnesota Helmets to Hardhats, understands the struggles of transitioning from the military back into civilian life firsthand.

For the last seven years, the veteran marine continues to give back to the military community by connecting Minnesota National Guard, Reserve and transitioning active-duty military members with quality career training and employment opportunities in Minnesota’s construction industry.

Wanting to travel beyond his hometown and serve his country, he joined the United States Marine Corp out of high school.

“As an infantry rifleman, I spent four years with the U.S. Marines,” Rost said. “I was deployed in 13 countries. During 9/11, I was stationed in Hawaii and spent the majority of my time training in jungle environments … even training with other military personnel in Thailand, Japan and Australia.”

After returning to the United States, “everyday life” changed for Rost.

“When I got back, it took me a long time to be comfortable walking around a mall or moving through my day without my regiment. I felt like something was missing all the time,” Rost said. “I went back to school but when it came to jobs, after a few years I would get antsy, question my purpose and find something else.”

Rost spent five years in a variety of roles. He went on to become a volunteer firefighter, then a certified EMT and eventually a real estate agent until the recession flipped the housing market in 2008.

“I was seeking new employment and my brother and father – both sheet metal workers — recommended an apprenticeship with Local 10,” Rost said. “I thought I would be coming in blind to this new career but in reality, I had skills that I learned in the military that expedited my success as an apprentice.”

Transitioning from Military Service to a Career in Construction

High school students who are considering joining the military, but who are unsure of what their path might be after they transition out of active duty, should consider a registered apprenticeship with one of Minnesota’s building and construction trades. According to Rost, the skills they gain in the military will translate into future success in the construction trades.

“A career in the skilled trades allows veterans to take on physical careers, and they still have enough time left in their careers to work that many earn a pension in a skilled trade on top of their GI benefits,” Rost said. “Based on the relationships we’ve built through Helmets to Hardhats, veterans should know that they will be welcomed by Minnesota’s building and construction trades.”

According to Rost, here are some of the key skills learned in the military that veterans can apply to a career in construction:

Technical Skills

From using power tools to firefighting to correctly using personal protective equipment (PPE), servicemen and women learn and execute several technical skills during their time in the military.

Working with various equipment, instruments and electronics while pitching in on assembly, maintenance and repair equips military members with experience working with their hands as well as familiarity with complex systems and reading schematics – all skills that are needed for a career in construction.

“Different roles within the military can also teach more specific technical skills,” Rost said. “But from the day you start bootcamp or basic training your brain is rewired to learn through visual cues, execute tasks properly in high-stress environments, take accountability for your actions, and learn how to communicate clearly.”

Technical skills learned in the military can help veterans interested in pursuing a career in construction earn free industry-recognized credentials from Helmets to Hardhats. To see how particular military occupational specialties are aligned with a career in construction visit Helmetstohardhats.org.

Teamwork

One of the most special takeaways from the military for many veterans is the comradery and sense of family that gets built within a team.

“No matter whether the mission is protecting a convoy, capturing an objective or keeping a ship afloat, working together toward a common goal is critical for success in the military,” Rost said.

So too is the case in construction. Building projects of all sizes require numerous skilled craft professionals to coordinate, communicate and execute a complex plan together.

Spending lots of time together on job sites – some projects taking months or even years to fully complete – develops a special bond between crew members. Many construction professionals even consider themselves to be a part of a brother- and sisterhood within their union.

“When you are on a construction site, it’s easy to find the veterans just by how they carry themselves; they know how to lead, how to look out for others and how to get work done efficiently,” Rost said.

For veterans looking to find a family like the one they found in the military, the lifestyle and culture of the construction industry is a great option to explore.

Work Ethic

Waking up early. Working hard. Being on time. Traveling and living in new environments. Being organized. Making sure you have all your tools and that they’re working correctly. Taking responsibility for and pride in your work.

Effort and attitude are among the core values of all branches of the military. Military personnel are put through rigorous training to instill these values within themselves and prepare them for anything that may come their way.

“Work ethic is also one of the core qualities that construction apprentices must exhibit,” Rost said. “Unions know the reputation of veteran work and they want to hire veterans because they trust that the job will be done well, on deadline. We’re reliable.”

Sometimes conditions are less than ideal, and sometimes difficulties will arise. Resilience and discipline in tough situations are valuable traits, and the construction industry seeks out and rewards professionals who exhibit them.

Leadership

Through their service, veterans learn when to take orders and when to give them.
Understanding both the chain of command and how to lead others become increasingly important skills in the military as one rises in the ranks. These skills are also critical for craft professionals as they earn promotions and climb the ladder in the industry.

“As your role grows along with your skills and experience, you take on more responsibility, help make important decisions and act as a leader for others,” Rost said. “Experience in leadership is invaluable. The leadership skills that veterans gain during their time in the military will prepare them well for success in a career in construction.”

There are many parallels to draw between careers in the military and in construction. The skills and experience veterans gain during their service will allow for a successful transition into a quality, long-term career in the skilled crafts.

About Helmets to Hardhats

Helmets to Hardhats is a national program that connects transitioning active-duty military members, veterans, National Guard and Reservists with skilled training and quality career opportunities within the construction industry. The program is administered by the Center for Military Recruitment, Assessment, and Veterans Employment and headquartered in Washington, D.C. Direction for management of the center comes from a board of trustees composed of equal numbers of employer and labor trustees. To learn more about H2H, or to apply for work or membership, visit: https://helmetstohardhats.org/. Connect with Minnesota Director of Helmets to Hardhats at justin.rost@mnh2h.org.