In today’s ever-changing world, it can be difficult to find the perfect career path. Finding a job that will offer you the kind of pay and benefits that you can be happy with, as well as work that will leave you feeling fulfilled and satisfied, can be a tall order. In the construction industry, there are a ton of amazing jobs and roles that offer individuals fulfillment, good pay, and a healthy work-life balance.
Naturally, many individuals find themselves wondering at some point. Is construction a good job? Would I enjoy construction? Am I cut out for construction? The short answer is that it depends. Not every individual is suited for every job, and naturally, construction isn’t for everyone. Still, it’s important to note that “construction” denotes a far wider range of roles, positions, responsibilities, and jobs than many realize.
Working in construction can range from physical labor all the way to white-collar office jobs. Each of these paths can be extremely rewarding in its own way. It’s important to take stock of what you value in a career and in a job, then consider if a position will work for you. If you’re wondering where to even get started, read on. We’ll explore the topic and help you develop a framework for determining whether a construction job is the right role for you. Let’s jump in!
Construction is a Varied Field With Numerous Roles
First, it’s crucial to understand that a “career in construction” does not always mean “general laborer.” While many individuals have a preconceived notion that construction workers are always swinging a hammer or operating heavy machinery, this simply couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, there are a number of roles in construction that primarily involve doing administrative work or operating in an office.
On the job site, roles are varied as well. General labor, which is often associated with construction, is only one of these roles, and construction workers often have far more specialized roles and responsibilities. Many construction workers have started off as general laborers, only to receive additional training, mentorship, and education, enabling them to take on more specialized roles.
Still, others have sought out training, education, and specialization before ever setting foot on a construction site. Both paths are effective, and both types of workers have a lot to offer. Whether you’ve never set foot on a construction site or you’re interested in pursuing more specialized training, there may be a path forward for you.
Consider Your Interests
As you embark on your career journey, consider what kind of role you would like to have in the construction industry. If you’re unsure, spend a moment to ask yourself why you’re interested in construction in the first place — do you have a vision in mind that appeals to you? If so, what is in that vision? Is it financial? Do you like the idea of using your body in your work? Perhaps the sense of accomplishment one can find on a job site? Whatever the case, you may find some clues that help you understand what specifically you might get out of construction.
Additionally, take some time to consider any interests you have, whether or not you think they pertain to construction — because you might be surprised. As we discussed, there are a lot of roles in construction that all require different interests and skills.
Are you interested in the way mechanical things work? If so, you may consider training to become a mechanical engineer or an operations supervisor. Do you like to see progress and love the way new buildings look on the horizon? You may be perfect for the role of a project manager or administrative worker.
Do you want the experience of working outdoors with your body and making palpable progress with each day? You may be perfectly suited for a general role in labor to get started. Do you have a passion for craft — whether that be woodworking, roofing, metalworking, drywalling, or other? You may be perfectly suited for a specialist role, potentially seeking a mentor to apprentice with.
Consider Your Strengths
We’ve discussed the various roles that can make up the construction industry as well as some of the interests that may lead you to this rich field. Construction can be an extremely lucrative career, as well as a rewarding one. Many construction workers love their career and wouldn’t trade it for the world. In many cases, construction work is the key to specialized knowledge and training and a deep understanding of the way the world works around us.
But the truth is, construction requires certain strengths — and we’re not talking about physical strength, necessarily. When it comes to finding the perfect role for you, it can be important to take a moment to take note of what strengths you have. It’s not a matter of having strengths; we all have them. It’s a matter of figuring out where you excel in particular.
Are you someone who refuses to stop until the job is finished? Someone for whom giving up isn’t a thing? Resilience can be a crucial strength to have in construction. In the construction industry, it isn’t uncommon for projects to be extended significantly or for unexpected challenges to arise. A strong sense of resilience can be invaluable, whether you’re working in a labor capacity or from a desk.
Do you relish in uncooperative weather? Are you able to endure tough conditions, smile at the end of each day, and take pride in that ability? When things don’t go your way, do you take it well? If so, you may be exceptionally patient — which can be a huge deal in construction. There are so many things that can go wrong or take longer than planned, and that’s when having exceptional patience can be a major benefit.
The Bottom Line
Construction can be an amazing field in which to develop a career. The construction industry is as crucial as it is varied, and many construction careers end up being highly lucrative. Still, it’s important to stop and consider a few factors if you’ve been wondering whether construction is right for you. Among these, your strengths, interests, and the roles you might be interested in are some of the most important.
Remember, not all construction work is general labor — though general labor can be an incredible career choice. Whether you’re interested in general labor, working in an office capacity, or seeking extremely specialized education, construction has it all. From the job site to the office, this varied field relies on many different types of workers who all bring their own unique strengths and perspectives.
Consider what draws you to construction in the first place, what your unique strengths are, and where you might fit in this diverse world. If you’re interested in learning more, don’t hesitate to reach out. At MegaKC, we’re dedicated to doing safe, quality work in the Kansas City community and providing freedom for all of our employees. That’s why we’re building an employee-owned team, where everyone is performing meaningful work and has a stake in the success of the company. To learn more, get in touch today.
