In theory, you can start working in the construction industry without any experience. Still, you won’t get very far without an apprenticeship or credentials.
Certifications are considered proof of someone’s qualifications and their quality of work. Some certifications are essential in the construction industry. There are also a few optional certifications that may be beneficial to you depending on where you want to go with your career. Here are 5 construction certifications that could give it a significant boost.
OSHA Training
This 10-hour program teaches you about worker’s rights, employer responsibilities, and the hazards you may come across on the worksite. This program is intended for entry-level workers. In many states, you must have this Department of Labor card to step on to certain worksites. The longer 30-hour program teaches you how to recognize, prevent, and minimize workplace hazards.
OSHA authorizes several other training courses. For example, there is an aerial lift certification program that most employers require you to complete before you can operate a boom lift. This is a useful skill to have on a construction site, and your employer may pay you to take the lessons.
You’ll have to go through an organization like the National Association of Safety Professionals or NASP to become a certified safety professional.
ACI Certifications
The American Concrete Institute or ACI has almost thirty certifications, all of which involve concrete. Many cities and states require you to have an ACI certification to work with concrete. For example, you must have the ACI certification to be allowed to anchor or test concrete slabs.
One point in favor of ACI certification is that you only have to take the test once. More importantly, the certifications are recognized worldwide.
LEED Certifications
The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design or LEED certification says you are recognized for your knowledge of green building and design. It is the most popular green building rating system in the world and is available for all types of construction projects.
The first certification is the Green Associate credential. This says that you understand sustainable building practices. There are additional certifications available through the Green Business Certification Incorporated LEED program.
Lead Certification
If you want to work on older homes, you will need lead certification. Organizations like zotapro.com provide training on how to safely remove lead paint from homes built before 1978. These courses will give you the certification required for renovation and abatement firms. You can also get mold certification, which is required by several state and local regulatory agencies if you want to work in mold remediation.
PMP Certification
You could also earn a Project Management Professional or PMP certification from the PMI. That highly regarded certification translates into a 20% higher salary for construction managers. The PMP is notable because it is a universal project management certification, not one limited to the construction industry.
Earning construction industry certifications will not only give you invaluable knowledge. They often result in higher pay and may open the door to better-paying positions.
