Careers in the Trades With Construction Courses

In the current global economy, construction remains one of the stalwarts of the market. Modern construction utilises Planning, Architecture, Health and Safety and Green Engineering in its workflow as well as actual Building skill-sets. There are so many different ways to become a professional worker in construction.

Work covers three broad skill ranks, which each have a number of roles. A large number of on-site workers tend to be Un-skilled or Semi-skilled workers who haven't gone through lengthy training.

The next level is that of skilled labour and this refers to the Foremen and Managers who work on-site. And then there are those listed as Technicians and Managers. Individuals in this category will have trained and qualified at a more advanced level, and will take on greater responsibilities.

On this page you'll find links and adverts from a selection of training companies, so it could be worth your while to book-mark it (CTRL-D) so you can come back later to review your options.

Training in Construction in the UK

Further Education credentials (often involving vocational elements) are essential for skilled positions. These skills can either be gained through working apprenticeships or via one of the dedicated colleges. During 2007, some eight thousand five hundred construction based scholarships were pursued in the Britain. Two years on and that training number has increased to eighteen thousand.

It's widely recognised in the industry that there are three types of construction. They're very different in nature and scope, and require distinctive skill-sets.

Initially we have the building construction section. This is mainly concerned with extending existing property. A large number of these projects are comparatively small and are completed in under a month. Secondly, organisations that gain profit out of medium sized projects fall into the heavy or civil construction sector. Then there's Industrial Construction, which is a specialised but smaller division of the industry. Without a doubt profit is often behind the large scale ownership of these projects.

A greater range of skills and professions are needed to complete the civil and industrial construction projects. The scope of the projects range from a few hundred pounds for small building work through to a few million or even billion pounds to complete two year industrial projects. We can take a look at some of the professions that work in construction -

Civil Engineering

A Civil Engineer usually holds a degree in a relative subject. Equally important is the Chartered Engineer qualification earned through the Institute of Civil Engineers. Typically graduates must hold qualifications such as the MEng in order to reach the chartered rank. Bachelor of Engineering degrees are generally a prerequisite to reaching the Incorporated Engineer level.

Building Services Engineering

B S Engineers are also known as M and E Engineers. For this type of position it is customary for people to have a suitable degree e.g. in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering. Those looking for accredited status as a competent and professional building services engineer should consider membership of the CIBSE.

Project Managers

Many project managers come into the role through other engineering disciplines. With experience and on-going training in (e.g. in PMBOK or PRINCE 2) they can progress to very senior roles.

Quantity Surveyor

Training for work as a Quantity Surveyor starts with an appropriate three or four year degree course. For professional Chartered status, you should refer to www.rics.org - 'the world's leading professional body for qualifications and standards in land, property and construction'.

Structural Engineers

For a career in structural engineering, you need a vocational qualification (NVQ) in an engineering or construction related subject, or a structural engineering degree. As structures have to remain safe and serviceable for many years, the designs, materials and calculations all have to be expertly worked through.

Architects

Entry in architecture is unlikely without a degree, and indeed practical supervised experience along with university studies will take approximately 7 years. An architect is responsible for designing new buildings and the surrounding spaces. They have to work closely with their clients, fellow professionals, officials and users to ensure their work complies with everyone's needs.

The Latest Gossip

Some fun to brighten your day!