My son just turned 18. He’s attending junior college. with his eyes set on a construction management degree from a university.
This week, he started work at a local construction company.
Here’s the advice I shared with him and would give to anyone stepping into the field.
▶ No Skills, No Friends – Yet
Starting from scratch means you have no skills and no contacts in the industry.
Your mission? Build both.
Your job isn’t just to move dirt or lay bricks; it’s to level up your skills and build your professional network.
▶ Identify and Solve Problems
The fastest way to grow is by identifying problems and taking the initiative to solve them.
This isn’t just about technical aptitude; it’s also a way to make yourself invaluable and memorable.
Everyone loves a problem solver!
▶ Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
There are no lone wolves in construction. It’s a team sport.
Adopt a team mentality from Day 1.
You win, and you learn together.
Contribute, communicate, collaborate.
▶ Putting It All Together
So, to my son and anyone else starting out: Build your skills and your network by solving problems—and do it all in a team environment.
Do this over the course of your career, and you will succeed.