The construction industry is a field of work that tends to be misunderstood or underestimated. As a result, construction companies across the United States have spent the past few years dealing with labor shortages.
The good news about that? There are plenty of job openings currently available, for well-paying positions in a truly amazing industry!
Younger generations in particular have tended to shy away from working in construction as a result of some commonly-perpetuated myths, and we’re here to dispel them!
Is construction considered unskilled labor?
Some people believe that construction work qualifies as “unskilled labor”, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Although we don’t believe that unskilled labor really exists– every job requires a specific skill set– construction most certainly requires skills and knowledge that often must be learned on the job.
These skills are often necessary to keep workers safe, which brings us to another misconception…
Is working in construction dangerous?
In fact, construction is a highly-regulated field with strict guidelines and regulations when it comes to safety.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, also known as OSHA, is an organization dedicated to ensuring that people can work in a safe environment.
They provide training and education that encourages safe practices and works to inform people ahead of time about potential hazards.
For example, when people are required to work from potentially dangerous heights, OSHA requires that their employers provide safety equipment and fall protection gear– like harnesses– that will keep them safe in case of an accident.
If for any reason a worker doesn’t feel safe at a worksite, they are free to file a claim with OSHA to ensure their future safety and that of their coworkers.
Does working in construction pay well?
Because of the misconception that working in construction is “unskilled labor”, some people mistakenly believe that working in the construction industry doesn’t pay well.
This couldn’t be further from the truth! Construction workers are very well compensated for their time. For example, at Redstone, wages start at $15 per hour and only increase from there, depending on your position, education, and level of experience.
Working in construction is actually a very lucrative career option– and one that’s often overlooked!
Don’t I need to go to college to get a good job?
Millennials in particular were highly encouraged to go to college after high school, with the implication that only college-educated people could find good jobs.
But that, too, is a misconception! Going into trade work, like construction, provides a steady, solid, and reliable career.
Trade work also doesn’t mean a lack of education.
In fact, skilled trades require plenty of training and education in a highly specialized area, and workers who have received that level of education become highly sought-after employees (which means higher wages!)
Employers also often pay for their workers to receive the necessary education for the job, which means receiving the knowledge you need– without student loans to pay off in the future.
Can women work in construction?
When you picture the stereotypical construction worker, you probably imagine a man in a hard hat and a vest. But the truth is that anyone can make it in the construction industry– women are definitely an important and valuable part of the workforce!
Is it hard to find a job in construction?
The great thing about the construction industry is that things are always being built, maintained, or remodeled. There’s truly no shortage of work, but there is currently a shortage of labor. That means that motivated individuals can find a position in the industry pretty easily!
At Redstone, our employees enjoy working together as a team in the close-knit family environment we’ve created. We value the work we do and the contributions that everyone makes.
If you’re ready for a career in the industry, check out our available positions and send in an application. We’d love to meet you!
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