As with any other industry, the construction industry has also been a subject of jokes and rumors, myths and misconceptions.
It is easy to attack a career and a whole industry when you have never experienced it. However, in the case with construction - some of those myths and misconceptions are actually hurting the industry.
Many talented and creative people are choosing other career paths and sectors and thus leaving construction short of good workers.
In today’s post. We will delve into some of the most common myths and debunk them so other talented people do not miss out on a great opportunity.
Myth #1 - Construction is an industry for men
That is a so 1985 misconception! According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of women in construction grew by 81.3% from 1985 to 2007.
Even though only 9% of construction workers are women, for 2010 only there were over 800,000 women working in construction, both in managerial and production sectors.
Myth #2 - Construction is only for people who cannot get another job
The myth that people choose construction, because they cannot find anything else is far from the truth and insulting to all workers within the industry. Most construction workers choose this path because they know it pays well. But most importantly - because they love the sense of satisfaction from contributing to the creation of something that will be standing long after, using both your physical and mental skills.
Myth #3 - Working in construction has limited to none career potential
Contrary to popular belief, working in construction is not a dead end and there is plenty of ways, as with other industries, to get ahead and achieve more. Anyone who wants to be successful and is willing to put in the work can do it. Options to aim for - managerial positions, consultant jobs, owning your own business, and so much more, the possibilities are endless.
Myth #4 - Construction workers do not have to be educated
The idea that anyone can do construction, and no education is needed is highly misleading. There are many jobs within construction that require skills and talents that do not come naturally. Skills and talents that need to be learned - either in a technical school or trade school. It is rare to find a construction worker without any kind of degree or certificate within his specialty. Not to mention that workers also must be good in physics, math and be able to read blueprints.
Those are just the top 4 misconceptions about our industry that cannot be further from the truth. Stay tuned for part 2 to debunk some more construction myths.