Overview of Construction Management
Construction Management is a field of study that focuses on the on-site organization and coordination of construction activities. It is a multi-faceted field of study that involves understanding of the business environment, legal considerations, contract management, cost estimating, project planning, scheduling, construction methods and techniques, safety protocols, and personnel management. As a whole, Construction Management encompasses the entire process from pre-construction planning through to post-construction project assessments.
Career Opportunities for Graduates with an Associate Degree in Construction Management
Those who hold an Associate Degree in Construction Management are qualified to pursue entry-level positions in the field. Common careers include Project Manager, Superintendent, Site Coordinator, Construction Coordinator, and Project Administrator. Those with higher levels of education or training may find themselves working as Construction Engineers, Construction Estimators, and Construction Supervisors.
Internship and Co-op Opportunities Related to Construction Management
There are numerous ways for aspiring Construction Managers to gain hands-on experience in the field before committing to a full-time role. Experiential learning opportunities such as internships and co-ops are available with some of the top Construction Management companies in the industry, providing students with valuable and direct knowledge of the industry. Additionally, these programs are often available through some universities, providing students with credit hours towards their degree.
Specialized Tracks or Concentrations Within Construction Management
Some associates programs in Construction Management provide specialized tracks or concentration areas, giving students the ability to focus their studies on specific aspects of the field. Examples include Finance & Cost Control, Project Planning & Development, Emergency Preparedness, and Environmental Health & Safety. Additionally, many universities offer concentrations in Heavy Equipment Operation, CAD Programs, and Construction Law.
How Does an Associate Degree in Construction Management Prepare Students for Further Education?
An associates degree in Construction Management prepares students with the knowledge and skills required to pursue further education. This includes developing an understanding of the business environment, understanding the legal considerations, and gaining hands-on experience working on projects. Additionally, an associate degree in Construction Management can help students develop their problem solving skills, communication skills, and organization skills, which provides the necessary foundation for further education in the field.
Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Construction Management
The emergence of new technologies and artificial intelligence is having a dramatic impact on the construction industry, ushering in new forms of automation and innovation. Artificial intelligence technologies are being used to automate various aspects of construction projects, which improves efficiency and accuracy. Additionally, artificial intelligence is being used to create jobsite forecasts, calculate timelines, analyze data, and develop optimization solutions.
The Career Outlook for Construction Management
The current and future outlook for those with an associate degree in Construction Management is very strong. With the global economy continuing to expand and the demand for increased infrastructure projects, those with an associate degree in Construction Management can expect to enjoy a secure and potentially lucrative career. In addition, the development of new technologies and artificial intelligence has the potential to open up new and even more efficient levels of work within the industry.
Here are the top reported starting salaries for graduates in Construction Management:
- San Joaquin Valley College-Visalia, Salary: $59,937
- San Joaquin Valley College-Ontario, Salary: $59,937
- Kirkwood Community College, Salary: $46,650
- Baton Rouge Community College, Salary: $35,512
For privacy reasons, not all schools report the first year salaries for students who earned their associate degree in Construction Management.