Seven Reasons to Make a Career Shift to Construction
Discovering a Career in Construction
If you’re feeling stuck in an unfulfilling or dead-end job, you’re not alone.
After 12 years of full-time work as a pharmacy technician, Tina Farnsworth was invested in her career but unsure of her path forward, so she decided to make a career shift.
“The independent pharmacy I was with had changed ownership and there really wasn’t a clear path there for me anymore,” said Tina. “I didn't want to go back to a big corporate pharmacy again and there weren't any independent pharmacies near me that were hiring.”
Tina’s husband had raved about the growth potential he experienced while working in the construction industry. To get her foot in the door and learn the industry from the ground up, Tina decided to initially pursue a Craft laborer position. Her dedication and hard work has led to a Project Engineer role in a dynamic industry that offers many career benefits and opportunities to those interested in exploring its possibilities.
1. Diverse Career Opportunities
While it may seem daunting, changing careers midstream can lead to greater opportunities and personal fulfillment. The construction industry offers career options that can appeal to professionals with a variety of skills and interests. One of the hidden career benefits of the construction industry is its flexibility. Whether your passion and experience lie in project management, hands-on trades, or technical engineering, there is bound to be a role suited to your strengths and ambitions.
Project Management
Behind every construction project, there are detail-oriented project managers overseeing the planning, budgeting, and execution functions to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to specifications. While some of the terms and tools may differ, an experienced project manager with a solid work ethic and positive attitude can make the switch and realize a rewarding construction career.
Our managers are approachable and open-minded about what you bring to the position. While I brought people skills and time management from working in other industries, constantly learning new things is something I've really enjoyed.
Trades and Craftsmanship
From carpentry and plumbing to electrical work, masonry and more, skilled tradespeople or “Craft” workers are the backbone of the construction industry. For those looking to avoid sitting behind a desk all day, these roles offer hands-on work and the satisfaction of seeing the results of their work take shape.
Engineering, Estimating and Design
There is no shortage of availability for those who thrive on technical problem solving and innovation. Construction careers in engineering, estimating and design offer opportunities to use mathematical and scientific skills in the pre-construction phase of a project to design structures that are safe, efficient, and sustainable.
2. Strong Job Security
In an era marked by growing economic volatility, job security is a top priority and especially for anyone exploring new employment. As an essential role in infrastructure development and urbanization, the construction industry continues to provide a solid option for stable, long-term employment.
I felt pigeonholed in my previous career…knowing that I have a culture and career paths that support my growth was huge in making the switch to construction.”
Unlike industries like retail or hospitality that are prone to fluctuations, construction has maintained a steady demand for skilled workers. The need for new infrastructure, renovations, and maintenance ensures a continuous flow of projects and resulting employment opportunities.
The demand for construction talent is projected to increase significantly in the coming years, especially as baby boomers continue retiring. According to recent industry reports, the construction sector is poised for robust growth, driven by investments in infrastructure, sustainability initiatives, and more.
3. Competitive Salaries and Benefits
Beyond job security, the construction industry also offers competitive compensation packages to reinforce the value of skilled labor and expertise.
Depending on the company, role, and location, construction professionals often earn salaries that exceed other industries – especially experienced project managers and engineers.
These jobs can also come with comprehensive benefits, including robust healthcare, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development, underscoring a commitment to support long-term career satisfaction.
4. Opportunities for Advancement
One of the most attractive aspects of a career in construction are the pathways for advancement and professional growth. Whether you start as a trade apprentice or as a project coordinator to gain new experience to complement your existing skillset, there are clear pathways to advance your career. Through experience, additional training, and demonstrated leadership qualities, individuals can progress to higher-level roles such as construction manager, senior engineer, or other executive positions.
For Brian Hartman, his financial management experience helped him transition into construction as an Estimator at Mortenson. “I felt pigeonholed in my previous career without any real growth opportunities,” said Brian. “Knowing I’d have a culture and career paths that support my growth was huge part of making the switch to construction.”
5. Hands-On and Rewarding Work
Construction professionals play a pivotal role in shaping communities and leaving a lasting legacy — whether constructing a new office building, renovating a historic landmark, or building sustainable infrastructure like solar farms or wind turbines.
See Projects Come to Life
One of the most gratifying aspects of a career in construction is the opportunity to witness tangible results happen in real time while contributing to the built environment. The tangible impact and satisfaction of seeing a project progress from blueprint to reality is a source of pride and a driving force for many who choose a career in construction.
“Compared to the environment working in finance, I knew my new career path wasn't going be a typical office job,” said Kyle Tromanhauser Jr., a Mortenson Field Engineer. “Getting the technical training to learn how a substation is actually built, learning how to read IFC drawings and coordinating with our various teams to put all of it together have been some of the best opportunities so far.”
Make an Impact on the Community
Beyond individual career growth, construction professionals also have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on communities they serve. Whether building schools, hospitals, or other structures, many construction projects contribute to social and economic vitality by creating jobs and stimulating local economies and improving residents’ quality of life.
“Mortenson is so committed to many of the same things that I care about too, like making an impact in the community,” said Adriana Campa, Project Engineer at Mortenson.
Involvement with Habitat for Humanity and other local organizations help to improve the lives of people in their communities. Donations, charities, and team members who actively volunteer are often signs of a company’s positive culture and value system.
Sustainability Initiatives
In response to global environmental challenges, construction projects are increasingly focused on sustainability initiatives. Construction professionals are at the forefront of implementing green building practices, energy-efficient technologies, and renewable materials to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainable development.
6. Learning and Development
Construction is an industry that values and relies on expertise and innovation. As a result, training and skills enhancement are becoming essential components of career development initiatives at construction companies.
Continuous Learning
Construction professionals have access to a wide range of learning opportunities, from formal education programs to on-the-job training and professional certifications. These programs enhance technical skills while ensuring professionals are on top of industry trends, regulations, and best practices.
“Our managers are approachable and open-minded about what you bring to the position,” said Rian Helland, a Construction Coordinator at Mortenson. “While I brought people skills and time management from working in other industries, constantly learning new things is something I've really enjoyed.”
Apprenticeships and Training Programs
Apprenticeships are a major part of skill development in construction as they provide hands-on training under the guidance of experienced tradespeople.
Many larger construction companies also sponsor training programs that enable employees to acquire new skills and advance their careers within the organization. In some cases, this is true for Veterans looking for opportunities that allow them to take advantage of benefits that can come from their service.
7. Exposure to Cutting-edge Technology
Companies succeeding in the construction industry are embracing innovation and technology to enhance their efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
From Building Information Modeling (BIM) to drones, robotics and much more, technological innovations are revolutionizing how construction projects are planned, designed, and executed. These advancements improve accuracy, reduce waste, and accelerate project timelines. Exposure to cutting-edge tools and techniques not only enhances job satisfaction but also positions construction professionals as leaders in their field.
A Perfect Time for a Career Shift to Construction
Shifting careers to construction can lead to a more dynamic and rewarding career that includes many diverse opportunities, strong job security, competitive salaries, and a chance to make a lasting impact on the world.
With ongoing investment in innovation and continuous learning programs, now is a perfect time to find a new career path in construction. Whether you are drawn to project management, skilled trades, engineering, or another area of focus, the construction industry provides the opportunity to be a part of building something bigger while leveraging your skills and passion along the way.