Careers in Construction Month is a nationwide celebration and recognition of the career opportunities that exist in the construction industry. It occurs each October and is led by the National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER) and its Build Your Future (BYF) initiative to increase public awareness and inspire the next generation of craft professionals.
With as many as 44.7 million Americans having student loan debt and a nationwide construction labor shortage, career opportunities in the construction industry are looking more and more lucrative. You can receive on-the-job training and experience while making money instead of accumulating student debt. I mean, who wouldn't want to skip that ramen noodle phase of life they call college?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average base salary per year for a Craft Laborer is $38,890; $42,780 for a Roofer; and $56,704 for a Mason. The average working college student makes between $7,500 and $42,000 per year. But don't forget to subtract the average cumulative student loan debt of $35,359.
Have you ever had any interest in working in construction?
Take BYF's Craft Pro Quiz to see what craft matches your personality. Then explore the craft trading cards to learn about what career opportunities are out there, including training required and average base salary.
*Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Don Facciobene, Inc.