Contractor: Education Needed to Start a Career as a Building Contractor

Contractor: Education Needed to Start a Career As a Building Contractor

Students in a construction contracting program are able to choose from a variety of subfields to suit their interests. Within the field of contracting, there are numerous types of contracting to choose from. Read this article for information about contracting careers.

Contractors Defined:

Contracting careers are divided into three different categories: general contracting, heavy and civil engineering construction contracting, and specialty trade contracting. General contractors are involved with building structures, such as residential homes and office buildings, while heavy and civil engineering construction contractors work on sewers, highways, bridges and tunnels. Specialty contractors are individuals who focus on a specific trade such as carpentry or painting.

Sample Curriculum for a Specialty Contractor Program:

• Basic Safety
• Hand and Power Tools
• Blueprint Reading
• Form and Foundation Systems
• Floor Framing
• Wall Framing
• Roof Framing
• Roofing Materials Methods
• Windows and Exterior Doors
• Exterior Trim

Job Outlook for Contractors:

Those at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predict that job growth for contractors is expected to be good. However, as the housing market slows, experts predict that housing developments will also slow and affect the residential construction professionals.

Earnings Information for Contractors:

In 2004, the average salary for skilled construction workers was $19.23/hour, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

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