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Degrees and Schools
Some schools offer bachelor's degrees in construction management, construction science, civil engineering and building science. Some colleges and universities offer a master's degree in construction management or construction science. A lot of two-year colleges provide construction management or construction technology programs.
The Associated General Contractors of America offers a Supervisory Training Program (STP) which is a construction specific training curriculum.
Classes
Students typically study the following subjects:
- Design and cost estimating
- Site planning
- Value analysis
- Construction methods
- Building codes and standards
Online Classes and Programs
Some schools provide online construction management and civil engineering programs. Prospective online students should look for schools which have been accredited by an agency approved by the United States Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education.
Employment Requirements
Supervisors need to have a thorough knowledge of construction. Employers typically prefer individuals that have skills and experience in construction trades and also have leadership ability. The majority of construction supervisors are former union members that have moved up through the construction trade.
Many construction supervisors do not have a college degree, however an increasing number of employers prefer applicants that have some college training.
The major employment sectors are building equipment contractors, nonresidential building construction, specialty trade contractors; residential building construction; and foundation, structure and building exterior contractors.
How to Evaluate Schools and Programs
The answers to the following questions can help students select the appropriate school:
- Training - Does the program include an externship? Do students have to find their own externship?
- School's Reputation - Does the school have a good reputation in the construction industry?
- Job Placement - Are students provided job placement services?
- Curriculum - What type of electives are offered? Can students select an area of specialization?
- Financial Aid - What types of financial aid are available? Is the school qualified to provide federal financial aid?
- Accreditation - Is the school accredited by an agency which has been approved by the the United States Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education?
Construction Supervisors Job Description
Basically, construction supervisors oversee crews of skilled and unskilled workers at construction sites. Typically, construction supervisors are experienced construction workers. They make sure that construction workers efficiently use equipment, materials and their time. A construction supervisor determines priorities and assigns tasks to workers.
Construction supervisors report to site superintendents who oversee all of the crews on a construction site. On small construction projects a supervisor, known as a working supervisor, works alongside construction workers. Those involved with large construction projects spend a lot of time with management activities.
Shown below are some of their responsibilities:
- Interpret blueprints and plans
- Advise workers regarding how to perform specific tasks
- Keep records of the materials used for a construction project
- Direct the training of new employees
- Report on costs, safety and personnel
- Keep the project on schedule
- Ensure safety rules are adhered to by construction workers
- Acquire knowledge about union procedures and contracts
Resources
- Associated Builders and Contractors
- Associated General Contractors of America
- Construction Management Association of America
- American Institute of Constructors
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