By the Building Skills NY Team
Are you a young woman, fresh out of high school, looking for career options?
Or maybe you’re a business woman looking to break away from the corporate world.
Perhaps you’re a mom re-entering the workforce and can’t stand the idea of going back to your old desk job.
Here’s something you probably haven’t considered: construction.
More than one million women in the US currently work in construction – and that number is growing. In honor of Women’s History Month, here’s why you should consider a career in construction:
You’ll be in high demand.
Construction companies are looking to hire now more than ever. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for construction workers and laborers is expected to grow 12 percent between 2016 and 2026. In New York, employment for construction laborers is projected jump to 15 percent by 2022.
Your salary will climb
A recent survey conducted by the National Center for Construction Education and Research found that salaries for many construction trades rose in 2018, with many of the jobs not requiring a four-year degree. Experts anticipate construction wages to continue to increase through 2020.
You’ll be hands on.
Literally. Few industries are as hands-on as the construction industry. While many women in construction choose to office roles such as management and HR, more and more women are opting to work on the construction site.
You’ll make the team better.
The Harvard Business Review found that when women were on a team of men, the overall intelligence of the teams were greater, there was more collaboration, and the team’s overall performance was better. When women are on construction sites, they can bring new ideas on how best to approach challenges and create a more collaborative work environment.
You can grow.
Women in construction leadership roles is on the rise. The number of females in construction leadership roles has experienced a 15 percent increase since 2010. That’s the highest gain across any industry, and that number is expected to grow.
Are you ready to build your career from the ground up? Find out how to access Building Skills NY construction training and job opportunities by checking out our Job Seekers page.
Happy Women’s History Month!