Are you interested in a job in the construction industry but don't know where to start? Maybe you are in need of a career change and have no idea what is out there for you. Lucky for you, you're in the right place, so keep reading.
The most significant challenge that Michigan’s Construction industry is currently faced with is the availability of skilled labor, which means they are looking for people just like you to get the skills, and get the job.
Why Are There So Many Available Jobs?
It's a well-known fact that companies in Michigan are in need of skilled workers, and are struggling to meet this need. There are three primary reasons for the shortage of skilled laborers in Michigan right now:
- The attrition of the Baby Boomer generation – a huge percentage of the current workforce is quickly approaching retirement age.
- Increased market activity – The construction industry will continue to recover as many firms add to their headcount amid growing demand in a range of private and public sector markets.
- Directing of a younger generation away from the skilled trades – Society pushes a college degree as the only way to success. When in truth there are many jobs that pay well that do not require a college degree to make a good living.
Knowing why there are so many opportunities for construction jobs in Michigan is only half of the battle. The real question is how do you get these jobs? We've narrowed it down to three of the best ways to get a job in the Michigan Construction industry.
Number One: Get the Skills
It's not a secret anymore that a bachelor's degree isn't your only ticket to a successful career, and in some cases you can be more successful without one. What employers are really looking for is if you have the skills to do the job. The more relevant skills you acquire, the more valuable you will be to any company. There are a number of paths you can take to ensure that you are getting the right skills to work in the skilled trades. Some of these include:
- Get into an industry apprenticeship
- Take construction related certificate courses at your local community or technical college
- Attend specialty programs and other training opportunitiesoffered by industry associations.
- Start at the bottom and work your way up. Look for jobs that are general labor/helper positions where you will learn new skills.
Number Two: Connect with Michigan Construction
The goal of the Michigan Construction movement is uniting the industry and changing the way people connect with careers in construction. Don't know exactly where in the industry that you want to work? Not a problem. Where other organization's tend to focus on one aspect of the industry, Michigan Construction focuses on employment across multiple areas of the construction skilled trades. Maybe you will even fall in love with a career you never knew existed.
Number Three: Pay Attention to Demand
Here in Michigan we have two seasons: Winter and Construction. This causes an increase in demand during certain times of the year which allows more entry level workers the chance to break into the industry. Don't be mistaken though, this doesn't mean only apply for jobs in the summer. The best plan is to apply for the positions that you are qualified for as they become available, while keeping a closer eye on the market. Set up job alerts on popular job sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, www.HBAConstructionCAREERS.com, or submit your information to Michigan Construction's partner companies that are looking to hire.
What Next?
Now that you have an idea of where to start when looking for a job in construction, get moving! Get your resume together and start taking action. Companies are looking for motivated, skilled, and dedicated workers right now. So why shouldn't it be you?
