The success of a construction project depends on the people involved and how well they work as a team. These professionals have a vital purpose, and it is through their knowledge and direction that a construction can come together. From the earliest stages of a project to completion, strong leadership is essential to getting the job done, and getting it done right.
With many seasoned professionals in field leadership positions retiring over the next decade, industry vacancies will need to be filled, and it may not be easy. A report from the Associated General Contractors of America shows that 81% of construction companies are struggling to fill superintendent positions and 77% of construction companies are struggling to fill project manager/supervisor positions, highlighting the need for better prepare future workers for high-level careers in construction.
So how can we build on existing leadership development programs and improve their quality, availability, and flexibility?
Establishment of Formal Training for Foremen
One of the first steps for many talented craft professionals interested in pursuing field leadership is to become a foreman.
This position plays an important role in the day-to-day management, supervision and mentoring of project teams. However, there has traditionally been a lack of formal training for the increased responsibilities in this role. A report from the Construction Industry Institute, Improvement of first-line supervision in industrial constructionnotes that new foremen generally receive “minimal onboarding support” and that few ever receive the training or development opportunities to reach their potential.
The experience of being a foreman can often serve as a foundation for the rest of an individual’s leadership career. Providing formal foreman training and certification can help professionals in this role develop key skills that will make them successful both in this position and potentially at higher levels of leadership.
Flexible training programs for superintendents
The superintendent plays a critical role in the day-to-day operations of a construction site, helping to keep projects on time and on budget. This role not only requires technical skills and knowledge in multiple areas such as project plans and construction processes, but also requires strong leadership skills. That’s why it’s vital to make superintendent training and certification programs as flexible and accessible as possible.
For example, NCCER offers a construction superintendent certification program, creating opportunities for qualified individuals who are interested in field leadership. NCCER developed the certification together with subject matter experts and industry leaders, ensuring the relevance, validity and quality of the program.
The 16-course program is fully online and designed to be convenient for participants, offering content, practice tools and resources that can be accessed at their own pace. In addition to allowing new or aspiring superintendents the flexibility to learn important skills at any time, it can also help a company provide training without removing more experienced superintendents from their work in the field, helping to keep the positions of work and projects on the calendar.
Online or accelerated degrees in Construction Management
While foreman and superintendent positions are commonly achieved through performance and field experience, careers in construction management typically require a bachelor’s degree.
Accessibility and flexibility are essential to attract more students to construction management programs. Many universities offer online degrees for convenience and may also allow for a combination of online and in-person classroom instruction for a more complete experience. Several online programs are also accelerated to streamline education for those who want to accelerate their education.
Exploring an online or accelerated degree in construction management allows students to develop the technical and applied research skills necessary to achieve senior management positions in the field.
Building a better future
The demand for qualified and skilled leaders in the construction trades has reached its highest peak in 10 years, and without strong training programs, the demand for labor will continue to grow. Assessing and redesigning current professional development options can help train a new generation of construction leadership.
Building a better future starts with a foundation in education and training. Ensuring that this foundation is strong will help the industry continue to thrive.
