Construction Technology
Why a career in construction?
National annual expenditures in construction top $500 billion, and construction and related activities generate 20 percent of the U.S. gross domestic product (GDP). With an A.A.S. degree in Construction Technology from SFCC you will have the knowledge and skills to start a career in America’s largest economic sector. Not to mention, that when asked, most people say being involved in construction projects is interesting, challenging and rewarding!
What types of skills do I need?
Careers in construction require knowledge and skills in science, business and management. Knowledge about construction materials and methods, and codes and regulations is a must. Today’s contractors also need to know how to use computers to work with building plans, develop estimates, manage costs and set schedules.
You should enjoy people, and believe in a team approach to problem solving. Add to those skills a positive, can-do attitude and a professional approach to work, and you’ll find yourself with an exciting career.
Where could I work?
Graduates of this two-year program work for firms in all areas dealing with construction: general contractors, architects, civil engineers, subcontractors, construction management firms, materials suppliers and government agencies. Jobs are varied, and work environments range from permanent offices to job site offices. You’ll be involved in the day-to-day construction of a project, using both theory and hands-on experience.
There are hundreds of job types, including insurance adjusting, construction safety, construction equipment leasing and sales, and building materials sales.
Construction is a basic need for any growing economy, and the people doing the work have to be located near the project. Opportunities are local, regional and national. Outsourcing is not a concern for construction professionals.
What about job outlook and salaries?
State and federal agencies project substantial shortages in people qualified to manage construction projects over the next 10 years. Careervoyages.com, a site sponsored by the Department of Education, the Department of Labor and several construction industry organizations, predicts the United States will need 123,000 new construction project managers over the next eight years. The projected job growth for this category is 10 to 20 percent per year.
Some of the most sought-after college graduates are construction management graduates. Nationwide, many two-year graduates annually earn between $30,000 and $40,000.

Contact
Steve Harris
Fielding Technical Center
(660) 530-5800, ext. 7233
sharris5@sfccmo.edu