Construction Trades
Program Description
The construction trades program offers students a broad array of occupation skill competencies. Through the construction trades program, students will receive training in carpentry, masonry, plumbing, and electrical occupations.
Related Occupations
Skilled construction occupations include brickmasons, blockmasons, cement masons, concrete finishers, plasterers and stucco masons, millwrights, electricians, pipelayers, plumbers, and pipefitters.
Nature of Work
Each area taught with in construction trades program has a different nature of work.
Carpenters construct, erect, install, and repair structures and fixtures made from wood and other materials.
Masons build and repair walls, floors, partitions, fireplaces, chimneys, and other structures with brick, precast masonry panels, concrete blocks, and other masonry materials.
Plumbers install, maintain, and repair different kinds of pipe systems.
Electricians install, connect, test, and maintain electrical systems for a variety of purposes, including climate control, security, and communications.
Training and Advancement
Most carpenters, masons, plumbers, and electricians learn their trade through formal and informal training programs such as; on-the-job-training, vocational, community colleges, and/or skilled apprenticeship programs.
Carpenters may advance to supervisor or general construction supervisor positions. Others may become independent contractors.
Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the 2004-2014 job outlook for carpentry, masonry, plumbing, and electricians is expected to increase as fast as average.
Job opportunities are expected to be excellent, as demand for skilled craftsmen is expected to outpace the supply of workers trained in the craft.
Information printed in brochure was compiled from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov
Earnings
Individuals who are employed within a building trade field earnings vary by specialty, location, and level of responsibility.
Carpenter $10.36 – $28.65
Mason $11.68 – $30.43
Plumber $9.19 – $25.07
Electrician $12.18 – $33.63
*Hourly Wage