How to Become a Construction Manager
Looking to advance your career in the construction industry? Do you aspire to take on a leadership role where you can oversee and inspire entire construction teams? Then working as a construction manager could be a suitable fit for you.
So, how long does it take to become a construction manager — and what steps are required to qualify for this kind of role? With a firmer grasp of what this career path entails and how to become a construction manager, you can formulate a plan for your future.
What Is a Construction Manager?
Before diving into the steps you’ll need to take to become a construction manager, it’s important to understand what the work of a professional in this role entails and why construction managers are such a central part of the industry.
Role and Responsibilities
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), “Construction managers plan, coordinate, budget, and supervise construction projects from start to finish.” Sometimes, the term “construction manager” is used interchangeably with other job titles, such as “project manager” or even “general contractor.”
Every construction project needs at least one construction manager to oversee teams and ensure that everything is completed properly, on time, and (ideally) on budget. While the precise roles and responsibilities of a construction manager can vary from one position or project to the next, some of the most common duties include:
- Preparing budgets and timelines for work
- Collaborating with construction teams, engineers, architects, and other professionals
- Overseeing projects closely and working to keep them on track
- Ensuring compliance with building and safety codes
- Hiring and scheduling subcontractors to complete work
Construction managers spend much of their time in the field, although they may have on- or off-site offices as well.
Importance in the Construction Industry
Construction managers play a pivotal part in the construction industry, putting their knowledge and skills to work to keep projects on budget and schedule. These professionals also strive to maximize the efficiency of construction projects while ensuring that work is done safely and in compliance with building codes and occupational regulations.
Meanwhile, because construction managers often serve as a primary point of contact between construction teams and clients, they can help ensure projects are completed to clients’ unique specifications while maintaining positive relationships with them.
What’s the Difference Between a Project Manager and a Construction Manager?
Although the terms “construction manager” and “project manager” are sometimes used synonymously, these roles are not identical.
Both positions may involve a certain level of oversight and leadership on a construction project. However, project managers tend to have a broader scope of oversight and responsibility over an entire project — whereas construction managers are completely focused on construction-related activities. Depending on the size and scope of the project, there may be a need for multiple construction managers, but most construction projects will only have one project manager.
Six Steps to Become a Construction Manager
Exactly what does it take to become a construction manager? Here are a few steps you’ll want to follow to qualify for this type of leadership role.
Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
According to the BLS, construction managers typically need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in construction or a related field — although a more advanced degree (such as a master’s degree) may be preferred among many employers. Some examples of related bachelor’s degrees include not just those in construction but also business, engineering, or architecture.
A bachelor’s degree will provide students with the essential skills and knowledge necessary to better understand the ins and outs of the construction industry, along with foundational concepts (like mathematics and communications) that are critical in this field.
Gain Practical Experience in Construction
With a bachelor’s degree in construction or a related field, you should have the qualifications to begin working directly in the construction industry. This experience will help you gain a better understanding of the field and its nuances as well as what it’s like to work under a construction manager. Another potential option for gaining valuable work experience in construction is to explore internships or co-op programs while you’re in school.
Develop Key Skills
Both during your time in school and while working in the field, you’ll have the opportunity to develop key skills that are crucial for effective construction managers to possess. This includes strong communication, as construction managers must be able to share information clearly with their teams and their clients alike.
Aspiring construction managers should develop basic business skills, too, especially when it comes to preparing and following budgets. Business acumen may also be useful in hiring subcontractors and overseeing other aspects of a project’s finances.
In addition, professionals will need to sharpen their technical competencies in construction. Knowing how to read technical drawings and use common construction industry software (plus project management software) can go a long way in effectively overseeing a construction project.
Earn a Master’s in Construction Management
While it may be possible to secure a job as a construction manager without an advanced degree, the reality is that a master’s degree is often preferred — particularly for larger construction projects that involve overseeing many moving parts. A master’s degree in construction management can also provide professionals with advanced knowledge of construction technology, methods, communications, and other skills that are critical in this field.
Most master’s degree programs in construction management are designed to be completed in two to three years, though this will depend on whether you’re enrolled part-time or full-time. Likewise, some construction management degree programs can even be completed online.
Consider Certification
Though not a requirement, many construction managers will go on to acquire special designations and certifications within their fields. One of the most popular certifications is Certified Construction Manager (CCM), which is offered through the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA). Obtaining this certification can help construction managers set themselves apart while gaining valuable skills, insights, and experience.
To earn the CCM designation, professionals must pass a technical exam that covers topics such as project management legal issues, risk allocation, and more.
Obtain Licenses (If Required)
Some states may require construction managers to obtain a license, so it’s wise to research the specific state where you live and plan to work. In states where licensing is required, professionals may need to submit to a background check, pay a licensing fee, and possibly even have proof of liability insurance. However, these specific requirements can vary greatly by state.
Construction Manager Career Outlook
If you’re thinking about getting into construction management, now could be a great time to kickstart your career. According to the BLS, the job outlook for construction managers is projected to increase by 9% between 2023 and 2033, which is much faster than the national average for all occupations. Based on the same data, there were more than 520,000 construction management jobs across the U.S. as of 2023.
States with the highest employment of construction managers include:
- Texas
- California
- Florida
- North Carolina
- Illinois
Who Should Consider a Career in Construction Management?
For those who genuinely enjoy working in the construction industry and are good with people, this may be an ideal role. While construction management can be quite demanding (especially during busier times of the year), seeing the result of a finished product can be highly fulfilling.
Still, the most effective and successful construction managers tend to be those with proven leadership, communication, and decision-making skills. At the same time, having technical skills — such as the ability to read and understand contracts and blueprints — also go a long way in this role.
If all of this sounds like you, you might be well suited for a career in construction management.
Learn More in a Construction Management Program
With a promising career outlook and plenty of opportunities for professional development, working in construction management can be a rewarding path for those who enjoy leading others and overseeing complex projects. With the right education, certification, and work experience under your belt, you could enter this exciting area of the construction industry.
Do you seek to advance your education with a construction management degree? Texas A&M University’s College of Architecture is proud to offer an online Master of Science in Construction Management to equip students with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to break into construction management and leadership. With courses covering essential topics such as construction technology, innovative construction methods, critical thinking, and leadership, this multidisciplinary program can help prepare you for leadership roles in commercial, industrial, residential, and civil construction.
To learn more about our construction management degree program, get in touch to request information, or get started by completing your online application for admission today.
