October marks Careers in Construction Month, a time to celebrate the skilled men and women who are the backbone of our communities and to inspire the next generation to consider a rewarding career in construction. As October has come to an end lets reflect on why choosing a career in this industry is so beneficial, hear from some in the industry with their different experiences. The construction industry is a vital piece to the UK economy with many British manufacturing businesses offering a varied career path. Whether you’re fresh out of school, considering a career change, or already in the field, construction presents endless possibilities for growth, stability, and personal satisfaction.
Why Choose a Career in Construction?
1. High Demand and Job Security
The construction industry is essential to building and maintaining the infrastructure that we all rely on—homes, schools, offices, and public spaces. With growing populations and increasing investment in infrastructure, there’s a consistent need for skilled professionals. As technology evolves, so does the demand for workers in new areas such as green building, smart homes, and sustainable construction. Whether you’re a tradesman, project manager, or architect, construction provides long-term job security.
2. Opportunities for Everyone
From hands-on roles like carpenters, electricians, and plumbers to technical positions in engineering, surveying, sales, and project management, construction has a career path for everyone. No matter your skills or interests, there’s a place for you in this diverse industry. If you love working outdoors, have an eye for design, or are passionate about problem-solving, construction offers a fulfilling job that matches your talents.
3. No Desk Required
For those who prefer working with their hands or staying active, construction is a great alternative to a traditional office job. If the idea of sitting behind a desk from 9 to 5 doesn’t appeal to you, construction lets you move, build, and see tangible results from your work. Every day presents new challenges and opportunities to create something lasting, giving you a sense of pride and accomplishment.
4. Earn While You Learn
One of the major benefits of entering the construction industry is the ability to earn money while you develop your skills. Many trades offer apprenticeships that combine on-the-job training with classroom learning. This allows you to gain real-world experience without the burden of student debt, unlike many other professions. As you become more skilled, your earning potential increases, and many construction trades offer competitive salaries, especially as you advance in your career.
5. Room for Growth
Construction isn’t just about labour; it’s about leadership. Starting out as a tradesman doesn’t mean you’ll be swinging a hammer forever. With experience and continued education, there are numerous opportunities for advancement. Many successful construction business owners, project managers, and developers began their careers as apprentices or labourers. With the right skills and determination, you can move up the ladder quickly and even start your own business.
You don’t have to start as a tradesman either, you could start on the shop floor at your nearby Builders Merchants and work your way into external sale, the one of the front-line members selling those products.
Emerging Trends: The Future of Construction
1. Sustainability and Green Building
As demand for eco-friendly solutions grows, the construction industry is embracing sustainability with green building practices, energy-efficient designs, and sustainable materials. The UK’s commitment to reach ‘Net Zero’ by 2050 is driving construction toward eco-friendly innovations, creating careers in fields like environmental engineering and sustainable architecture. Companies will need to adopt energy-efficient materials, prioritize renewables, and reduce carbon footprints, facing initial costs but potentially gaining long-term savings and resilience. Stricter regulations and incentives will guide the shift, opening opportunities for firms to meet rising client demand for sustainable solutions.
2. Technology in Construction
The construction industry is evolving with new technologies, including drones, 3D printing, virtual reality, and advanced project management software. Careers in construction tech are growing rapidly, and those with a passion for innovation can explore roles in construction automation, digital modelling, and data analysis.
3. Focus on Diversity
The construction industry is making strides in becoming more inclusive, encouraging people of all backgrounds to explore careers in the field. Programs promoting diversity in construction are helping to bring more women and underrepresented groups into the industry, expanding the talent pool and fostering innovation.
How to Get Started in Construction
1. Explore Trade Schools and Apprenticeships
Many trade schools offer programs specifically geared toward construction, providing training in specialized areas like carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and more. Apprenticeships are another fantastic way to learn while you earn, giving you hands-on experience alongside experienced professionals.
2. Certifications and Continued Education
If you’re already in construction or looking to advance, obtaining certifications in areas like project management, safety, or specific trades can open new opportunities. The construction industry values skill development, so ongoing education is a great way to stay competitive and grow your career.
3. Networking and Mentorship
Getting involved in industry organizations or attending local trade events can help you network with other professionals, find mentors, and discover job opportunities. Many successful construction careers are built through connections and learning from those with more experience in the field.
Don’t just take our word for it, hear it from those in the industry.
We asked our LinkedIn followers to answer the below question. The survey results show strong support for careers in the Building Materials industry, with 60% of respondents stating they would “Definitely” recommend it to others. An additional 18% chose “Probably,” suggesting they see value in the field as well. Only a small percentage were uncertain or would not recommend it. This reflects a positive outlook on the industry, highlighting its potential appeal for those considering career paths.
Would you recommend a career in this industry to others?
60% Said definitely.
18% Said Probably.
11% Said Not Sure.
11% Said No.
Graham, one of our consultants, who has had 40 years of working as a sales director for Knauf, Springvale Lafarge plasterboard, has a lot to say about the Construction Industry:
“Writing as someone with 40 years’ experience in the construction industry I would say to anyone considering a future in the industry to go for it as you won’t regret it. I started in the industry after university and can honestly say I have enjoyed every moment, and the construction sector has been both good to me and a good place to be.
Whether your skill set is hands on trade or more commercial like myself there is a place for everyone recently it has been widely published about the skill shortages in the construction sector and the need to ramp up both house building and infrastructure construction, what better time to be a part of this than now?
The industry is full of characters, genuine people , people who create things who improve things what is better than looking at something and saying I did that, or I was a part of the team that created that .
Go for it I promise you; you won’t regret it.”
Brogan, our Marketing Executive, asked her partner about his experience in working in the Building Materials Sector. Joe, JM Interiors – Self Employed, has been working in this industry for over 10 years. He started just helping one of his friends’ fit bathrooms and in 2018 he went self-employed, starting his own business and he’s now doing something he enjoys and is extremely good at. Here is what Joe had to say:
“Working in this industry is so rewarding, I knew that when I was at school, I wouldn’t be good at the typical office job. My mate asked me to help him when I was in Year 10 (Age 14/15 in 2012) on weekends fitting bathrooms, and I quickly discovered that this is what I wanted to do.
Fast forward 6 years, I decided to go self-employed doing everything from bathrooms, kitchens to extensions. Over the years I’ve learnt a lot from others in the industry and I’ve been able to get a good group of customers who will only use me. I’ve recently just started working on commercial buildings, which has opened a whole new world for my business.
As far as working in this industry goes for me and my subcontractors, we couldn’t imagine not working in the construction industry. If you don’t know what you want to do, if you feel a little lost through college and you know you don’t want to go to Uni, then I’d recommend a career in this industry, whether it’s a hands-on role or you go for the sales side of Construction. There really is a role for everyone. “
If you’re considering a career in construction, now is the perfect time to explore your options. The industry is evolving, expanding, and offering more opportunities than ever. Whether you want to get your hands dirty, lead a team, or design the next generation of sustainable buildings, a career in construction has a path for you.
