Career Options

Recent studies support the idea that opportunities exist for construction management students. According to the U.S. Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, by 2010 the employment rate is expected to increase by 20 percent for construction managers, due to the need to replace existing infrastructure and develop and build energy-efficient structures. Changes in building technology also increase the demand for skilled and knowledgeable managers and require more supervision during the construction process. Worker safety laws are rising, and environmental protection regulations require that more construction managers are available on site.

Employment

In 2001, construction managers held about 308,000 jobs, and 15 percent of those were self-employed. The construction industry employed about 60 percent, while specialty trade contractors, such as plumbing, heating and air-conditioning, employed 24 percent. Engineering, architectural, and construction management services firms, as well as local governments, educational institutions, and real estate developers employed the rest.

As you think about entering a certificate program and are interested in how it will fit with your career plans, please check the career planning resources to  assist  you in your career path.    Information interviews with people in the field are an excellent way to learn about more career opportunities and potential employment. 

Earnings*

Earnings for construction managers and self-employed independent construction contractors vary depending upon the size and nature of the construction project, its geographic location, and economic conditions. In 2000, the average construction manager earned between $44,710 and $76,510. The lowest 10 percent of the profession earned less than $34,820, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $102,860.

*Earnings are reported with the assumption that candidates have a bachelor's degree.

Online Resources for Employment and Salary Outlook

The University Libraries Careers and Jobs Web site is a comprehensive site for many aspects of your career exploration and has specific information on Construction careers.

CCE's online career planning resources Web site

General employment resources:   http://www.cce.umn.edu/career/tools/resources.html

Labor statistics: Bureau of Labor Statistics  http://www.bls.gov/

State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates for Minnesota: http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_mn.htm

Sources: U.S. Department of Labor and Statistics, October 2002, and the Minnesota Department of Economic Security, October 2002.