Architecture and Construction
Do you like to design buildings or landscapes? Are you a builder? If so, construction might be the right field for you.
Career Pathways
The construction field has three general career pathways:
- Design (Preconstruction): Individuals who develop detailed plans for building structures, including homes, roads and bridges, such as architects.
- Construction: Individuals who implement construction designs, building and remodeling all types of structures, such as carpenters, electricians and plumbers.
- Maintenance and Operations: Individuals who manage the placement and management of machines and equipment, such as refrigeration mechanics.
Meta-Major: Industry, Manufacturing and Construction
Are you interested in a career in construction but not sure what you want to do? Check out the industry, manufacturing and construction meta-major at your local state college. A meta-major is a collection of associate degree programs aligned to a general career area, such as construction. Because all programs under the meta-major have common courses, you can pursue a relevant course of study before deciding on a specific degree program.
Education-Career-Income Connection
Many construction jobs do not require a degree but most require some technical training.
| Training, Certificate or Associate's Degree | Bachelor's Degree | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Roofers | $39,970 | Interior Designer | $53,370 |
| Cement Mason / Concrete Finisher | $43,000 | Surveyor | $62,580 |
| Carpenter | $46,590 | Cost Estimator | $64,040 |
| Security and Fire Alarm System Installer | $47,190 | Cartographer and Photogrammetrist | $64,430 |
| Heating and Air Conditioning Mechanic | $47,610 | Landscape Architect | $68,230 |
| Construction Equipment Operator | $47,810 | Energy Auditor | $70,530 |
| Brickmason/Blockmason | $50,950 | Civil Engineer | $86,640 |
| Civil Engineering Technician | $52,580 | Construction Manager | $93,370 |
| Plumber, Pipe Fitter, Steamfitter | $53,910 | Energy Engineer | $96,980 |
| Civil or Architectural Drafter | $54,920 | ||
| Electrician | $55,190 | ||
| Construction and Building Inspector | $59,700 | ||