The construction industry has a skilled workforce shortage of 650,000 and desperately needs new talent. At the same time, for those who pursue a career in the industry, it offers a way to achieve career dreams while accumulating little to no college debt.
College is not for everyone and doesn’t need to be. Construction industry associations and companies have established “earn-while-you-learn” craft education programs throughout the country to train the workforce of the future. Apprentices earn competitive construction wages, receive classroom and on-the-job education and secure industry-recognized credentials that equip them with real experience so their earnings and career potential grow.
Craft professionals can earn a living while in school and set themselves up for a well-paying career with limitless potential—all debt-free.
But the industry needs college graduates too.
A degree in construction management can lead to multiple job offers from top-performing companies. Students often take advantage of paid summer and yearlong internship opportunities and lock in jobs long before graduation. In fact, a survey of Associated Builders and Contractors’ National Student Chapter Network found that almost three-quarters of 2022 construction management graduates obtained internships and 70% received job offers with an average starting salary of $66,000.
Students can find more information on such incentives at ABC chapters.
The construction industry welcomes all. Associated Builders and Contractors works with hundreds of organizations to attract and retain talent exiting other industries or the military, reentering citizens and those pursuing citizenship.
Construction offers the debt-free opportunity to pursue your career dreams, restoring America’s infrastructure and building the places where we live, work, play and learn.
