4 answers
4 answers
Updated
Drew’s Answer
My degree is environmental engineering, and my career has been in technology, so that is the context for my response. Also, I worked in a concrete lab for a company that constructed beams used for bridges, which is why I'm responding. Like a lot of work, there will be professional roles with salaries that require a degree and hourly roles that require fewer skills or education. The outputs of construction projects are buildings and structures where people and their families could be at risk if the construction project isn't done correctly. Awareness of physical limitations of materials used in construction and understanding of environmental conditions and solutions that mitigate risk require education in many areas - architecture, structure & property of materials, project management, communication, etc.
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Rajeev’s Answer
The pathway to obtain a Bachelor's degree in the U.S. is 12 years of education to a High School diploma followed by 4 years of college education, After roughly 120 semester units you earn a BS or BA degree. A lesser degree, such as an associate's, requires only 14 years of education. Whereas a graduate or Master's degree requires schooling for 16 years. A doctorate takes 3 years more.
That said, why is a BS degree desirable to get ahead of the competition to win a job as a construction manager?
Construction involves building something tangible for use and occupancy by humans, or cattle. A structure, a shelter, or a bridge to cross a river. How do you accomplish the task? By envisioning, planning, drawing this new creation and putting together a step-by-step project to convert this vision into reality. You gather 3M's (men-material-methods) and execute the task. In the end, you turn over this product for beneficial occupancy by those who trusted you to improve their lifestyle.
That, dear Kevin, is the essence of all construction. Rather, that is the whole purpose of engineering. To make things happen. I would not say that a Bachelor's degree is a prerequisite, or an absolute make-or-break condition to be hired as a construction supervisor. The title "Engineer" is legally protected in several states to individuals who possess an active Professional Registration to practice. But the thought process is straightforward. When someone goes though 4 years of college education, drinking beer (or not), the end product is someone who a construction contractor can rely on to improve his bottom line. Feel free to apply for a job that "need" a bachelor's degree. What do you have to lose? Don't be swayed by semantics. Think about this. The employer needs an individual who can do the job for them and create wealth. They will pay for your body and mind. On the other hand, your B.S. diploma plus $2.50 buys a cup of Latte.
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That said, why is a BS degree desirable to get ahead of the competition to win a job as a construction manager?
Construction involves building something tangible for use and occupancy by humans, or cattle. A structure, a shelter, or a bridge to cross a river. How do you accomplish the task? By envisioning, planning, drawing this new creation and putting together a step-by-step project to convert this vision into reality. You gather 3M's (men-material-methods) and execute the task. In the end, you turn over this product for beneficial occupancy by those who trusted you to improve their lifestyle.
That, dear Kevin, is the essence of all construction. Rather, that is the whole purpose of engineering. To make things happen. I would not say that a Bachelor's degree is a prerequisite, or an absolute make-or-break condition to be hired as a construction supervisor. The title "Engineer" is legally protected in several states to individuals who possess an active Professional Registration to practice. But the thought process is straightforward. When someone goes though 4 years of college education, drinking beer (or not), the end product is someone who a construction contractor can rely on to improve his bottom line. Feel free to apply for a job that "need" a bachelor's degree. What do you have to lose? Don't be swayed by semantics. Think about this. The employer needs an individual who can do the job for them and create wealth. They will pay for your body and mind. On the other hand, your B.S. diploma plus $2.50 buys a cup of Latte.
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Updated
William’s Answer
Bachelors Degrees are needed as it teaches sound engineering sciences needed for supervisory roles, otherwise you can pursue the career in construction as a technician who is useful in implementing from junior to mid-level cadre, but may grow into senior cadre after much years of experiences.
Updated
Dirk’s Answer
In construction you need to be an effective communicator both written and verbal skills. Along with mathematics of course. You also need a foundation of specialized courses to give you a foundation for solution's. If your pursuing Construction management your will need an advance eduction,. so do not limit your self at an early age. It will pay off and quicker advancement.