Training is a great way to help you gain a better job in the construction industry. I have been working in this field for fifteen years now and since my early days I have progressed from a basic laborer into a manager and it’s a job I really enjoy. Sure it can be stressful but it’s an excellent way of earning a really decent living without being tied down to the office. I have managed to obtain multiple qualifications and thanks to my employers I have always kept up my training and kept my qualifications up to date and fully valid.
Training Will Become a Part of Life
If you are starting out in the industry I have a piece of advice for you which is: prepare to train and work hard to improve your skills. You will need to master many different skills depending on your plans for the future and the needs of the company you are working for. I have found that NVQ’s are perfect as they allow you to keep on earning while you train. You do need to put the hours into the training but believe me the hard work is certainly worth it. You are also assessed on site in your usual working environment and I find that a lot easier than attending a college course somewhere and having to sit three hour long exams.
It’s not only certificates you need, you may also have to go and obtain certain ID cards which will show you are competent at different types of jobs. Some companies, I fact most companies, now demand you have one certain type of card, but it’s easy to get hold of and earn and you won’t need to put too much time towards obtaining the early stage cards. I think you can register and begin your test within a couple of days providing you meet the criteria.
Health and Safety Training is So Important
A lot of focus is put on health and safety in the construction industry, and for good reason. In my years on sites up and down the country I have witnessed many accidents, small and large. I also read about all sorts of tragic accidents which happen when companies forget to install health and safety procedures or a lapse in concentration.
This industry is one of the most dangerous so you need to be prepared to study health and safety but to also put what you learn into practice. There are many regulations which your employees have to follow by law, but if you become a manager or supervisor it also becomes your responsibility to a certain point. Your behavior and actions may have serious implications on others so when you train you have to make sure you fully understand what you have to do. If you are ever unsure of anything always talk to your supervisors too, they will be able to sort out any problems before they turn into potentially deadly accidents waiting to happen.
When you are planning your career always make sure you are willing to continue learning. Many of the qualifications I hold now have to be renewed every three or five years. I am grateful for this as it keeps me completely up to date and ensures that the sites and people I manage are kept in adequate and safe hands. Never frown upon offers of training, sure it’s hard work but it leads to more money, more potential and a safer working environment for everyone. In fact why not take some time now to check out some courses online, if you’re unsure of what to take always read the entry criteria and look at the jobs sections and read what employees are looking for.
One of the best cards to obtain are the CSCS cards. These cards are often required by all companies looking to employee new workers.
