If you’re just starting out in your career or even looking to switch careers, you might want to consider going into construction industry. When most people think of construction they think of men in hard hats carrying wood or heavy beams on their shoulders. But there are a variety of roles available in the construction field and the industry continues to grow. If you’re wondering what makes the construction industry near bulletproof when other industries struggle, here are a few of the answers.
5 Reasons Why the Construction Industry Is Practically Bulletproof
Everyone Needs Housing
Unless you’re a squirrel or some other animal in the wild, you’re going to need a place to lay your head. Companies also need a place where they can conduct business. So construction companies provide an essential service unless you’re handy enough to build your own place. Interestingly, construction itself dates back to the beginning of humankind, although the materials used have changed.
And it isn’t just houses and businesses that are being built by construction companies. Museums, parks, monuments, and other places where people gather have to be “constructed.” Given the fact that construction is all around us, it’s easy to see why it’s such a hot industry.
Construction Is a Global Industry
When you think of certain industries, you think of certain countries. For example, the auto industry brings to mind countries like the United States, Japan, and South Korea. When you think of oil you might think of Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, or Russia. This is not the case with construction. Although there are international construction companies that do business around the world, construction in its most basic forms is something many people can do.
The global construction industry was expected to grow from $11.5 trillion in 2020 to $12.5 trillion in 2021. And that’s despite the global pandemic. The industry is expected to reach $16.6 trillion in 2025.
Practically Anyone Can Go Into Construction
Unlike an industry such as auto manufacturing or oil extraction, practically anyone with know-how and the right equipment can go into construction. Remember, construction isn’t just about building metal towers that climb into the sky. It’s also about building small single-family homes made of wood and brick.
Because of the accessibility of the industry, many people have started construction companies or begun working for one as an employee. This includes specialized roles like an electrician, where one might aim to pass the C-10 License examination to further validate their expertise.
There’s probably not a diamond mine near you, but I’ll bet there’s a construction company. Positions available in construction companies include:
- Estimator
- Architect
- Engineer
- Electrician (who may be working towards or have already passed the C-10 License examination)
- Expeditor
Increased Focus on the Environment
With increasingly scary natural disasters that many relate to climate change, it’s understandable why more people are focused on preserving the earth’s environment. This has had benefits to construction companies. It’s known as utility-scale solar construction and it’s on the rise.
You may have seen pictures or videos of large fields filled with solar panels. Those are utility-scale solar projects, and constructions companies make them happen. As more businesses and even state and local governments look to become more energy-efficient, these types of projects are only going to become more prominent.
Construction Safety Is Improving
Some people may be turned off from working in construction due to its reputation. Let’s face it, construction is typically considered a job that is difficult and dangerous. But improvements in safety technology have made the industry possibly safer than it’s ever been. For example, several companies have developed Ground Penetrating Radar and site sensors that can monitor aspects of a construction site such as noise levels, temperature, and any volatile organic compounds to help protect workers.
These smart site sensors are usually mounted throughout the construction site and can alert workers whenever there is a significant risk.
Final Thoughts
When considering the global need for housing and other types of buildings, it’s clear that the construction industry isn’t going anywhere. In fact, the industry is expected to grow. An increased focus on the importance of green technologies and safety improvements on construction sites have also helped boost the industry. Chances are if you’re pursuing a career in construction you’ve made a safe bet.
