Facts about the construction industry that everyone should know

Whether you're considering a career in construction or working your way up the ladder, there is plenty to know about one of Britain's most strategic economic powerhouses.

1. Careers in construction are well paid Forget working for minimum wage in low-skilled jobs. Some of the biggest jobs in construction are extremely well-paid, especially as the industry moves into the modern world, with digital and tech-driven solutions. Highly-paid and hotly in-demand roles include construction contracts managers, design managers, building surveyors, BIM specialists and sustainable construction consultants. Time to develop those skills and brush up that CV!

2. Employers value construction degrees

Similarly, there are various construction degrees available which offer the same essential foundational skills, as well as the opportunity to specialise in key areas - such as technology, finance, business, people, design and project management. Look out for sustainable construction qualifications too, which are very much in demand. Once you have your qualification, you can also look for a graduate development programme at big construction employers, with the chance to gain further qualifications.

These qualifications will stand you in good stead for your construction career. But don't worry if you have qualifications in another field. If you can show that you have transferable skills and experience, many employers will still be ready to hire you

3. Apprenticeships are better than ever

Construction apprenticeships have seen significant investment, and their frameworks have been recently redeveloped to ensure that they teach young people - and adults - the skills that today's employers really need. Many of the most successful professionals in the field started as apprentices, with programs that blend qualifications with on-the-job training, experience and a paid job from the start.

4. The industry is changing

Construction now uses cutting-edge technology, such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), CAD, nanotechnology and more. So if your passion is for design and tech, then you could take it further within the construction industry; applying the most innovative tech solutions to real-world building problems. This offers plenty of opportunities for younger entrants to the industry who can marry up their academic and tech knowledge with the solid industry experience of more time-served construction professionals. The opportunity for cross-fertilisation of ideas and rich on the job learning is superb. Those individuals who are ready to learn and invest in their knowledge will always find exciting roles in construction!

5. Green building is the future

Tomorrow's buildings will be extremely energy efficient and sustainable, with as close to a zero-carbon footprint as possible. Demand for this kind of sustainable construction is growing at every level, in both private and public building programmes. Construction workers with the skills, expertise and insights into this emerging field are very much in demand and these roles offer a growth platform for your future career. Look out for recognised qualifications in these fields at all levels - with many construction employers willing to pay to put their best workers through the necessary training.

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