Great vids, man. I got into construction out of necessity after working in banks for 5 years as an assistant branch manager. Was offered a job as a laborer making wage scale which was way more than I made in retail banking. Indescribably huge learning curve, but 3 years later I'm an APM at a medium sized specialized civil construction company. Luckily my company didn't care that I didn't have a degree. My advice to people is get your degree, develop good people skills, and don't be afraid to take on new responsibilities/ take advantage of opportunities you see.
@@senedvigano1068 sorry, never realized that there were responses. Construction management/project management is really a job of communication and managing different peoples expectations and realities. You have to be comfortable expressing yourself and delivering good news, bad news, saying what people may not want to hear, listening to what you may not want to hear. You will have to be outgoing and talkative to gain peoples trust and be able to negotiate not necessarily money, but mostly negotiate for other's time and commitments. Time really does equal money. I've always been great at interacting with people bit had a hard time with the unpleasant conversations, and was sent to a communication workshop where I learned really great tips. I think it's definitely worth it to do something like that.
@@aarjangiri107 it's going well man I just graduated and getting a job in the field soon, I'd recommend getting a job early on to learn the ropes n gain experience while studying.
As someone just starting out in the construction engineering industry, I found this video so helpful! This was so helpful to see the different possibilities. Keep the construction videos coming!
Awesome video. I’m a civil engineering student graduating next year. I watched this video a while back not knowing any of the terms you used. But once I started my internship for a general contracting company on Oahu and watched this video again I knew almost all the terms you mentioned. Its exciting. Thanks for sharing your knowledge!
Can you talk about residential vs commercial vs heavy civil? Great videos man I feel like our degree will be booming for decades to come and this is a great resource.
I have been struggle lately, im a BCE in Civil from Vietnam, all company I intended to apply required ABET program which my previous school isnt, so harsh bc I just moved to USA for 2 months
Enjoying the videos. There’s definitely a good amount of money in construction but it can be hard on the body. Another great perk is there will always be work available for folks in construction. No real concern for lay offs or furloughs in most places.
It's hard on the body when you're in the trades doing the building, even at the lowest rungs of the CM towers (field/project engineer) you're really not doing much physical work at all. The damage can come from poor stress management.
Great video Kienen! I have a BA (Bus. Admn) degree and an Assoc of Construction Supervision degree, and I have to tell you! You did a better job in this video of explaining the many construction career paths available, than my college professor did when I was earning my degree. Keep your videos coming and thank you for sharing your knowledge of careers in the construction industry.
I love youtube, I'm on it all the time researching anything I have questions about. As a current Construction management student with a lot of anxiety about entering the field, this video was one of the most valuable videos I have ever watched on any subject! You have a real skill for teaching and your passion shines through your videos! Thanks a lot, and I wish you more success in the future!
Currently an intern and wow, this video was so helpful. Personally started training jiu jitsu not too long ago on evenings and i honestly fell in love with the sport and don’t see myself being happy if i was ever forced to stop. I know the construction industry requires long hours so i don’t see myself staying out in the field side of it for too long. It was very relieving to hear that i have more options of a career path with my degree.
Great videos! I'm from Chile, working as a superintendent right now, things here work very similarly in the AEC industry. I'm going to the IBS 2023 in Las Vegas on the last days of January. I was looking for this kind of videos to learn more English technical vocabulary, related to engineering and construction. Your videos are very good for this purpose, thank you!
This video is fantastic educational quality. You’ve explained everything as I would have. Both of my parents are in construction. My mom is in preconstruction as a lead estimator for a sub and my dad works on site with a GC as a superintendent of sorts. He’s just got a little bit of a unique role, so he does a lot of what a superintendent does, but he also does a lot that they wouldn’t. the first time I was in school, I was studying construction engineering and I had the opportunity to intern with my mom’s company one summer and my dad’s company twice, once in estimating and once on site. The estimating internship was what I like to refer to as “my boujee summer” because we met with the owners, attended design meetings with the architect in a high rise in downtown Houston, had a $40 steak more than once, and was usually required to dress a step or two above business casual(just for those meetings). The next summer I was on the same project as my dad, literally our desks were right next to Each other, and coincidentally was a project my mom personally estimated and wrote the bid for. So all three of us got to work on one project together! I actually ended up dropping out and went to work for a different interior finishes sub in estimating and then eventually a paving/concrete sub as an assistant PM. So I’ve seen all sides of this industry. I only left because my last company was so toxic that I wanted nothing to do with the industry. Come to find out, they were just terrible people and lost a massive lawsuit 2 years after my departure. 😌 After about 5 years of bumping around from retail to healthcare, I’m finally resuming my education. Still kinda thinking construction, though I’m on the fence. Might go with industrial engineering bc I can still use it in construction, but it’s useful in other applications as well. Anyways, all that to say, your channel is fantastic and I think it will really help a lot of people interested in construction. You’ve certainly rekindled my love for construction and really got me reconsidering which path I hope to take. Keep up the great videos!!
Oh also I forgot to mention, depending on the size of the company and how many interns per project, some companies will actually tailor your internship around whether you see yourself on the superintendent side or the PM side. My on site internship was like this, so my mentor was the PM, while the other intern was mentored by the superintendent. In the last week of our internships, we swapped places and it was crazy how similar, yet different, the roles are.
I was so confused before watching this video because I thought that Construction Management was a Jack of all and master of none kind of thing. But this video definitely cleared the air. Still would like to know how can we land a general contractor role, either with Ms degrees or the career ladder shown in the video. At what exact stage we can move to general contractor role with the experience. Many thanks
Definitely agree that construction experience is invaluable as a design engineer. Would love to hear you share lessons learned or discuss how designers can improve from a contractor’s point of view in a future video.
Amazing video of the construction industry! You're one of the only channels that simplifies and provides an overview of construction management in a clear and concise way. I'm currently a project engineer in California and this video has helped a ton.
I am also a 3rd year student from Haryana same thinking as you . 😁 When you found a way then inform me about that one more thing I want to do a internship but don't have a way . And want to do work in Canada if you have a idea suggest me mam.😉
Hi Kienen - Can you do a video for International students who are planning to pursue their MS in Construction Eng. and Management ? and Job opportunities after the course for international graduates.
As long as you aren't going into debt to get your master's it should be good. I did my masters while working since I knew working would provide so much more knowledge value than a degree would, so if you can swing that, that'd be preferable in my opinion.
@@KienenKoga But doing masters in some reputed colleges will demand more time in doing the assignments and preparing for exams. So how can we balance both??
Haha interesting question! I only really know Hawaii but for the most part it’s collared shirt and jeans until you reach high upper management then its aloha shirts, slacks and dress shoes lol
I’m in landscape construction. I work as an assistant but I’m involved in the bidding process right now and I have 5 years in landscaping. It’s a great company and I absolutely love it. I asked this already, but is there a online school that could improve me in that field? To be clear, in construction. I would love you hear your response. Thanks.
To me, you get a better ROI by just putting more time into your work than going and getting a degree if you're trying to get a better understanding of the industry. I am sure there are online programs out there, but, to me, your time is better spent honing your skills in the workforce
What about if your start out as an estimator? I recently got a job out of college as a Steel Estimator, I think this is a great opportunity for me, especially since my I have a degree in Civil with an emphasis in structures. My only fear is that I'll be pigeonhole into just being a steel estimator. Is is hard to transition into a project engineering from an estimator?
congratulations! keeping an open mind and being willing to put in the work first and foremost. Then eventually as you get more comfortable with the concepts and procedures, you will need to open up a little bit; there's a lot of communication in this industry.
So from a contractors/my perspective, construction management is more oversight of the project but you work more for the owner and don't have a direct impact on how the project goes. Project management, you are in the details of the job, control the cost, and own the success of the project. I see the construction manager as more of a consultant to the owner than an actual builder of the job.
Im glad I've found your channel. I have recently decided to pursue Construction Management, studying at my local community College. That's all i cam afford at the moment. My plan is to earn certifications, and finish with an AAS. How far could I get with certificates, and how far could I get with an AAS? (Without ANY experience?)
Thanks for watching my videos! Honestly I would just try apply to as many places as possible. The bigger GCs will likely require a bachelors, but you may be able to convince them to hear you out, or at least get an internship to "prove yourself". Or you can work with a smaller contractor who probably cares less about the paperwork of your education. We have people working for us without any degrees related to construction or engineering and I'm a firm believer that success in this industry has little to do with your educational background and mostly to do with your effort and willingness to learn and adapt.
@@KienenKoga thank you for the response and giving me optimism! I really appreciate it. I would be making a huge transition in life when I start studying this field. I hope to learn more from your channel.
Be careful with the role of being a field engineer, or assistant superintendent. I have worked with several different general contractors and I can tell you right now, it’s a hit or miss. It’s a glorified position. Some companies have some that’s called “self work”. Which means you will be doing some kind of labor work (those companies won’t tell you until it comes down to doing this). It’s wrong to do this. When working in construction management, we should not be doing any kind of labor work. We should be focusing on the management side, not being a tradesmen or labor worker.
I started out with civil. How would you recommend switching to general contracting? Any suggestions to make myself more marketable without starting at the bottom again?
Its tough to say, theyre very different. Though it may suck, I think going through the entry level things in construction makes you a better manager in the end.
Hypothetically, if someone were to start in general contracting and chose to branch out into their own business, what job title and responsibilities would they have? And can you contrast that position with your working environment please
Not quite sure since I haven't run my own business, but from talking with others in the industry that have, if you are interested in opening your own business I believe you should go the project management route but build enough building knowledge that you could be a superintendent too if you wanted. Because if you cant understand building, you cant understand cost, so you can't manage the process the best you can and will struggle once adversity hits.
So just to be clear, do you recommend your internship to be mentored by a superintendent on site or a project manager who also has some time on the field?
Understand that even though you will be more office based, your job is to support operations in the field. The more you can bridge the gap between the office and the field, the better
As a self employed general contractor / project manager with 24 years experience, I must say, this is a very good and informative video. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking to get into the construction field.....Great job.
10 years max for project manger is way longer than on the mainland but that’s very interesting. People usually are project managers within 2-4 years for a lot of companies over here. I even was offered a superintendent role with a company after I graduate if I interned with them for 3 summers.
That depends are they functionally a project manager or actually understand risk. That is the issue I'm seeing. In chicago they don't just hand out pm roles. Functionally I think they can fake it but whether they are actually good and knowledgeable leaves me not impressed with my classmates that got the pm title right out.
Thank you for your vids!! I found these at the perfect time as im a senior in hs looking to major in either construction management or construction engineering!!
I definitely lack the field engineer experience. How can someone like me still get the knowledge and build the foundation needed to be a good project manager? Right now as a project coordinator, I do a lot of the roles you described as a PE, although I do rely a lot on the decisions of our PM and Superintendent. I try to go to the field as much as possible, but I still feel like it’s not enough.
Hey Kienen i'm about to get my Red Seal in the electrical trade. I want to go for a degree in Construction Management but I also want to get a degree in Civil Engineering because I think it might help expand my opportunities. Do you think it'll be worth it to go for the Engineering degree first or should I just go straight into Construction Management if I already have plenty of construction experience?
Im surprised how little private companies pay. I work for a gov lab and I only have an associates in construction management and make 75k a year. Ive seen people without a degree make 94k. The older folks make 140k without a degree. With a degree who knows how high but 150k for 20+ years in the industry is kinda low no?
Hi Kienen. I need advice for my circumstance. I am an HVAC technician. I decided to go back to college to become an engineer. I am in the first year of Mechanical engineering now. I know the lifestyle that I like that gets to the worksite(field) to go through every step of the process like what you are doing now. is it possible if an ME degree can get me a job as a construction engineer like you? Thank you for anyone gave me advice.
Finishing Masters in CEM this year, looking for internship style employment for this final 10 months of school now. Any tips for what positions to pursue as an intern i.e. who to shadow that will lead to better future skill set?
Hey Kienen, Love your videos man, you are such a university : ) I am an Architect with a Bachelor's degree and have applied for Masters in Construction Management at TAMU. Being an Architect I would like to know from you what jobs can I look forward to upon graduating as a construction Manager ? And Is it possible to work as a Project engineer with a General Contractor with this degree ?
Hello I'm an architect too I will apply to FIU next year for construction management, do you like what you are working in, with the master, any advice will be helpful , thank you!.
Great question; I would say no. In my opinion, I learned way more in 3 months of working than I did for my entire degree. Work ethic and diligence on the job is what helps move you up.
I'd love to hear more of your thoughts on the owners side of the industry. Owners reps are a part of projects earlier then GCs and therefore can topically influence the project more and younger professionals can get seats at the decision making table earlier than with the GC path. I'm a senior CM major who's done everything from labor for a sub, interned with OPM and currently interning with a commercial GC. The construction curriculum pushes most students into the world of general contracting with out even mentioning the entire other side of the industry that ownership provides. I'm curious as to why you aren't a big fan of that ownership path, thank you for mentioning it though, great video!
Super awesome question Matthew! For me, there’s nothing worse than an owners rep that doesn’t understand the basics of construction. They tend to make irrational decisions and honestly lose respect because they just can’t grasp how things are done from a contractors perspective. Being in the weeds and details of a construction project as the contractor to me gives you the valuable knowledge of what it actually takes to get it done.
@@KienenKoga Interesting, I'm sure that is definitely an issue and is the case more often then not. My experience involved working with major owners rep firm who had experience with some of the most impressive projects in the industry. The OPMs at this particular company were definitely knowledgeable about the building process, many of them former GC PMs themselves. As for smaller firms and freelance owners reps I'm sure this is a more prominent issue.
Yea OPM is where it’s at it’s much easier to ride to higher positions and more lucrative. I’m currently interning for an OPM now and most likely will be offered a job upon graduation as an APM and within a few years will be an PM. 15 years to get where you want in your career is a really long time. Most people who want to be vp of companies are at that level by year 10-15.
@@christian-gu5oq been working full time as an APM for an owners rep firm for a year now and im beyond happy with my decision. World class team, extremely knowledgeable and working on the most prominent developments across the country.
A part of my assignment for uni I am making a career plan (I'm studying construction management, masters). Got back to this video again for any ideas. I have steps like an intern, some particular software skills, and a PMP certificate (a lot later), but any more ideas what you can put on the list to become a Project/Construction manager? Great vids bro! =)
Don't quote me on this, but I think it's similar, maybe a little less but not by much. They usually have better hours than the operations guys too. Thanks Mihir!
As of now, it would be tough because most bigger companies require college degrees. Not sure if that will change, but you could possibly talk to a local firm and see if they would hire with just a high school degree and start building your experience from there.
Very helpful since I’m new in construction industry. I also have a question. Do you think me working in a windows and doors manufacturing company as QC engineer help me gain experience in construction company? Thank you for posting and making parts of my life a bit easier.
Currently interviewed for an apprentice superintendent position, I wanted to do more research on the position thank you for breaking it down, I’ve been watching your channel for the past 2 days. Im grateful for your content and it motivates me to purse a career in this field.
I'm currently studying master 1 in urban and architectural project management, I feel motivated and I can't wait to get into the industry, thank you bro
So a bachelors in Construction Management won't be enough to become a Construction Manager I thought I would just practice on the field for about 2 years minimum but not 20
Sir could you help me in finding a internship I am in 3 rd year , autocad and rivet knowledge and good grab on all the subject . My overall result is 80 %
Great video. I'm new to construction and to watch and hear from someone like yourself is great. You give insights on what's to come and I believe you give it in truth. Thanks
Great vids, man. I got into construction out of necessity after working in banks for 5 years as an assistant branch manager. Was offered a job as a laborer making wage scale which was way more than I made in retail banking. Indescribably huge learning curve, but 3 years later I'm an APM at a medium sized specialized civil construction company. Luckily my company didn't care that I didn't have a degree. My advice to people is get your degree, develop good people skills, and don't be afraid to take on new responsibilities/ take advantage of opportunities you see.
So awesome to hear Rudy. Thanks for sharing your story. Glad to hear the industry helped progress your career! There's no one right path!
What do u mean by good people skills specifically? As in charisma?
Hi Rudy: What's do u mean by APM? So your first 3 years working at construction industry, you worked as a laborer?
@@augustiner8425 assistant project manager
@@senedvigano1068 sorry, never realized that there were responses. Construction management/project management is really a job of communication and managing different peoples expectations and realities. You have to be comfortable expressing yourself and delivering good news, bad news, saying what people may not want to hear, listening to what you may not want to hear. You will have to be outgoing and talkative to gain peoples trust and be able to negotiate not necessarily money, but mostly negotiate for other's time and commitments. Time really does equal money. I've always been great at interacting with people bit had a hard time with the unpleasant conversations, and was sent to a communication workshop where I learned really great tips. I think it's definitely worth it to do something like that.
As a student in construction management looking to get into the field love the videos of what is expected in the real world. Keep it up🙌
Thanks so much Ali! Appreciate you watching!
hello, how is your course going on ? I'm also thinking about pursuing a CM degree !
@@aarjangiri107 it's going well man I just graduated and getting a job in the field soon, I'd recommend getting a job early on to learn the ropes n gain experience while studying.
I already feel excited !!@@aliadnan6577
@@aliadnan6577Hi planning to take Cm in college . Does this course involve advance math when studied in college?thanks
As someone just starting out in the construction engineering industry, I found this video so helpful! This was so helpful to see the different possibilities. Keep the construction videos coming!
Hahaa good to hear!
Awesome video. I’m a civil engineering student graduating next year. I watched this video a while back not knowing any of the terms you used. But once I started my internship for a general contracting company on Oahu and watched this video again I knew almost all the terms you mentioned. Its exciting. Thanks for sharing your knowledge!
Can you talk about residential vs commercial vs heavy civil? Great videos man I feel like our degree will be booming for decades to come and this is a great resource.
I have been struggle lately, im a BCE in Civil from Vietnam, all company I intended to apply required ABET program which my previous school isnt, so harsh bc I just moved to USA for 2 months
I’ve been in commercial. I do want to experience residential because I want to flip houses. I want to experience both
Hi brother, I'm QA/QC engineer from UAE I feel proud whenever I watch your blogs about civil engineer.
Awesome to hear!
Enjoying the videos. There’s definitely a good amount of money in construction but it can be hard on the body.
Another great perk is there will always be work available for folks in construction. No real concern for lay offs or furloughs in most places.
Appreciate it! And yes there’s always construction going on somewhere...
It's hard on the body when you're in the trades doing the building, even at the lowest rungs of the CM towers (field/project engineer) you're really not doing much physical work at all. The damage can come from poor stress management.
Love learning more about the field! I’m going into construction engineering technology and interning with an engineering company
Awesome!
Great video Kienen! I have a BA (Bus. Admn) degree and an Assoc of Construction Supervision degree, and I have to tell you! You did a better job in this video of explaining the many construction career paths available, than my college professor did when I was earning my degree. Keep your videos coming and thank you for sharing your knowledge of careers in the construction industry.
I love youtube, I'm on it all the time researching anything I have questions about. As a current Construction management student with a lot of anxiety about entering the field, this video was one of the most valuable videos I have ever watched on any subject! You have a real skill for teaching and your passion shines through your videos! Thanks a lot, and I wish you more success in the future!
I appreciate it Andy!your support means a lot 🤙
Your Videos are bringing back my Interests in Civil Engineering
Great stuff
With really nice small puns
I hope your channel Grows too ❤️
thank you for watching!!
Currently an intern and wow, this video was so helpful. Personally started training jiu jitsu not too long ago on evenings and i honestly fell in love with the sport and don’t see myself being happy if i was ever forced to stop. I know the construction industry requires long hours so i don’t see myself staying out in the field side of it for too long. It was very relieving to hear that i have more options of a career path with my degree.
Great videos! I'm from Chile, working as a superintendent right now, things here work very similarly in the AEC industry.
I'm going to the IBS 2023 in Las Vegas on the last days of January. I was looking for this kind of videos to learn more English technical vocabulary, related to engineering and construction. Your videos are very good for this purpose, thank you!
awesome! thanks from Hawaii!
This UA-cam channel is a pot of gold !
I think this video should be mandatory to watch at school.. what a well organized video
This video is fantastic educational quality. You’ve explained everything as I would have. Both of my parents are in construction. My mom is in preconstruction as a lead estimator for a sub and my dad works on site with a GC as a superintendent of sorts. He’s just got a little bit of a unique role, so he does a lot of what a superintendent does, but he also does a lot that they wouldn’t. the first time I was in school, I was studying construction engineering and I had the opportunity to intern with my mom’s company one summer and my dad’s company twice, once in estimating and once on site. The estimating internship was what I like to refer to as “my boujee summer” because we met with the owners, attended design meetings with the architect in a high rise in downtown Houston, had a $40 steak more than once, and was usually required to dress a step or two above business casual(just for those meetings). The next summer I was on the same project as my dad, literally our desks were right next to Each other, and coincidentally was a project my mom personally estimated and wrote the bid for. So all three of us got to work on one project together! I actually ended up dropping out and went to work for a different interior finishes sub in estimating and then eventually a paving/concrete sub as an assistant PM. So I’ve seen all sides of this industry. I only left because my last company was so toxic that I wanted nothing to do with the industry. Come to find out, they were just terrible people and lost a massive lawsuit 2 years after my departure. 😌 After about 5 years of bumping around from retail to healthcare, I’m finally resuming my education. Still kinda thinking construction, though I’m on the fence. Might go with industrial engineering bc I can still use it in construction, but it’s useful in other applications as well.
Anyways, all that to say, your channel is fantastic and I think it will really help a lot of people interested in construction. You’ve certainly rekindled my love for construction and really got me reconsidering which path I hope to take. Keep up the great videos!!
Oh also I forgot to mention, depending on the size of the company and how many interns per project, some companies will actually tailor your internship around whether you see yourself on the superintendent side or the PM side. My on site internship was like this, so my mentor was the PM, while the other intern was mentored by the superintendent. In the last week of our internships, we swapped places and it was crazy how similar, yet different, the roles are.
Thank you so much for sharing and for commenting! I appreciate the time you took to watch the video! Glad I could be relatable! haha
Your video just popped out in youtube suggestions, loved the video and subscribed it 👍
Thanks so much Sridhar!
I was so confused before watching this video because I thought that Construction Management was a Jack of all and master of none kind of thing. But this video definitely cleared the air. Still would like to know how can we land a general contractor role, either with Ms degrees or the career ladder shown in the video. At what exact stage we can move to general contractor role with the experience. Many thanks
Definitely agree that construction experience is invaluable as a design engineer. Would love to hear you share lessons learned or discuss how designers can improve from a contractor’s point of view in a future video.
thanks Shane! Great idea! Forthcoming....maybe I'll interview a design engineer....lol
It is very helpful for a civil engineering student like me. Thanks a lot!
This explanation is what we all needed! Thank you Kienen!!!!!!!
I appreciate it William!
Amazing video of the construction industry! You're one of the only channels that simplifies and provides an overview of construction management in a clear and concise way.
I'm currently a project engineer in California and this video has helped a ton.
THanks so much Kenneth! Best of luck to you!
I'm about to graduate and this really helped, thanks dude! Also, I heard Surveillance could be part of our career too.
Awesome bro thank you I will share your good ideas to my son who is into the construction 🔨 stuff
Thanks Victoria!
Great video 🎉
Love your videos man
What company do you work in? Want to see if there is one around me!
I am a 3rd yr civil engineering student from Nepal. I am interested in CM and found your channel. I think its going to help me out a lot
So awesome to hear!
I am also a 3rd year student from Haryana same thinking as you . 😁 When you found a way then inform me about that one more thing I want to do a internship but don't have a way . And want to do work in Canada if you have a idea suggest me mam.😉
Great video!
This video is very awesome!
Thank you so much 💞
Hi Kienen - Can you do a video for International students who are planning to pursue their MS in Construction Eng. and Management ? and Job opportunities after the course for international graduates.
I’ll have to look into that; since i didnt experience that dont want to give you wrong info haha but I can definitely research and find out!
Awesome video man. I finished my Graduation in Civil Engineering and planning to do my Masters in Construction Management any advice on that.
As long as you aren't going into debt to get your master's it should be good. I did my masters while working since I knew working would provide so much more knowledge value than a degree would, so if you can swing that, that'd be preferable in my opinion.
@@KienenKoga But doing masters in some reputed colleges will demand more time in doing the assignments and preparing for exams. So how can we balance both??
Please do a video on the dress code of all these different positions!
Haha interesting question! I only really know Hawaii but for the most part it’s collared shirt and jeans until you reach high upper management then its aloha shirts, slacks and dress shoes lol
I’m in landscape construction. I work as an assistant but I’m involved in the bidding process right now and I have 5 years in landscaping. It’s a great company and I absolutely love it. I asked this already, but is there a online school that could improve me in that field? To be clear, in construction. I would love you hear your response. Thanks.
To me, you get a better ROI by just putting more time into your work than going and getting a degree if you're trying to get a better understanding of the industry. I am sure there are online programs out there, but, to me, your time is better spent honing your skills in the workforce
@@KienenKoga thanks kienen! I appreciate it.
Thank you
Hi Man, I’m thinking about applying to Construction management as full degree in NYC, Do you think I should go for it or go for Civil Engineer.
could I get into an intern in construction management in my freshman year.
It wouldn’t hurt to try! I know a few people that got one.
What about if your start out as an estimator? I recently got a job out of college as a Steel Estimator, I think this is a great opportunity for me, especially since my I have a degree in Civil with an emphasis in structures. My only fear is that I'll be pigeonhole into just being a steel estimator. Is is hard to transition into a project engineering from an estimator?
Just graduated constructed management. As an introvert, what skills do you think I would need to succeed?
congratulations! keeping an open mind and being willing to put in the work first and foremost. Then eventually as you get more comfortable with the concepts and procedures, you will need to open up a little bit; there's a lot of communication in this industry.
Find ways to exert your voice! Construction has a lot of egos, so make your voice heard!
Can you please clarify the difference between construction management and project management?
So from a contractors/my perspective, construction management is more oversight of the project but you work more for the owner and don't have a direct impact on how the project goes. Project management, you are in the details of the job, control the cost, and own the success of the project. I see the construction manager as more of a consultant to the owner than an actual builder of the job.
Im curious - which career path do you see yourself taking?
Likely project management. With a side of youtube lol
Excelent my bro
thanks so much Richard!
Im glad I've found your channel.
I have recently decided to pursue Construction Management, studying at my local community College. That's all i cam afford at the moment.
My plan is to earn certifications, and finish with an AAS.
How far could I get with certificates, and how far could I get with an AAS?
(Without ANY experience?)
Thanks for watching my videos! Honestly I would just try apply to as many places as possible. The bigger GCs will likely require a bachelors, but you may be able to convince them to hear you out, or at least get an internship to "prove yourself". Or you can work with a smaller contractor who probably cares less about the paperwork of your education. We have people working for us without any degrees related to construction or engineering and I'm a firm believer that success in this industry has little to do with your educational background and mostly to do with your effort and willingness to learn and adapt.
@@KienenKoga thank you for the response and giving me optimism! I really appreciate it. I would be making a huge transition in life when I start studying this field. I hope to learn more from your channel.
Mahalo, you are the best.
Haha I appreciate it! Thank you for watching 🤙
Be careful with the role of being a field engineer, or assistant superintendent. I have worked with several different general contractors and I can tell you right now, it’s a hit or miss. It’s a glorified position. Some companies have some that’s called “self work”. Which means you will be doing some kind of labor work (those companies won’t tell you until it comes down to doing this). It’s wrong to do this. When working in construction management, we should not be doing any kind of labor work. We should be focusing on the management side, not being a tradesmen or labor worker.
honestly, i would like to be an intern on your site than others,
Haha thanks!
What category is an assistant/associate engineer (project management for CIP) for the city in your diagram?
I started out with civil. How would you recommend switching to general contracting? Any suggestions to make myself more marketable without starting at the bottom again?
Its tough to say, theyre very different. Though it may suck, I think going through the entry level things in construction makes you a better manager in the end.
Hypothetically, if someone were to start in general contracting and chose to branch out into their own business, what job title and responsibilities would they have? And can you contrast that position with your working environment please
So basically, if someone were to go start there own business in general contracting, would they go toward the superintendent path or project manager?
Not quite sure since I haven't run my own business, but from talking with others in the industry that have, if you are interested in opening your own business I believe you should go the project management route but build enough building knowledge that you could be a superintendent too if you wanted. Because if you cant understand building, you cant understand cost, so you can't manage the process the best you can and will struggle once adversity hits.
So just to be clear, do you recommend your internship to be mentored by a superintendent on site or a project manager who also has some time on the field?
that's a great question actually. To me, a superintendent is better. Seems like the better engineers start out that way....
Hey Kienen,
What do you think about pursuing an MBA after some time in the construction side?
Great idea a lot of VP and CEO of construction companies have MBA’s
I was confused if today was Monday or Wednesday with the video going up today hahahaha
Hahahaha i disappointed yesterday, but should be back at it tomorrow
Do you have any advice for someone who's interested in virtual construction coming from a construction management student?
Understand that even though you will be more office based, your job is to support operations in the field. The more you can bridge the gap between the office and the field, the better
How much were you making annually the first years after college?
When I started in Omaha it was $55k but my initial offer to work in Hawaii was $85k.
like number 500 🙂🙂
As a self employed general contractor / project manager with 24 years experience, I must say, this is a very good and informative video. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking to get into the construction field.....Great job.
Love the content! You gave a very thorough overview of the different career paths a construction background can lead to. Very informative!
Thanks Curtis! Appreciate you taking the time to watch!
10 years max for project manger is way longer than on the mainland but that’s very interesting. People usually are project managers within 2-4 years for a lot of companies over here. I even was offered a superintendent role with a company after I graduate if I interned with them for 3 summers.
That depends are they functionally a project manager or actually understand risk. That is the issue I'm seeing. In chicago they don't just hand out pm roles. Functionally I think they can fake it but whether they are actually good and knowledgeable leaves me not impressed with my classmates that got the pm title right out.
This video gave me hope that there’s something I can find out there that will make me happy
Thank you for your vids!! I found these at the perfect time as im a senior in hs looking to major in either construction management or construction engineering!!
Awesome Caleb! I appreciate you watching man
Does a supervisor and foreman fall into the field engineer area? Are those two under the control of the superintendent. That’s how I see it.
I definitely lack the field engineer experience. How can someone like me still get the knowledge and build the foundation needed to be a good project manager? Right now as a project coordinator, I do a lot of the roles you described as a PE, although I do rely a lot on the decisions of our PM and Superintendent. I try to go to the field as much as possible, but I still feel like it’s not enough.
Hey Kienen i'm about to get my Red Seal in the electrical trade. I want to go for a degree in Construction Management but I also want to get a degree in Civil Engineering because I think it might help expand my opportunities.
Do you think it'll be worth it to go for the Engineering degree first or should I just go straight into Construction Management if I already have plenty of construction experience?
Im surprised how little private companies pay. I work for a gov lab and I only have an associates in construction management and make 75k a year. Ive seen people without a degree make 94k. The older folks make 140k without a degree. With a degree who knows how high but 150k for 20+ years in the industry is kinda low no?
Hi Kienen. I need advice for my circumstance. I am an HVAC technician. I decided to go back to college to become an engineer. I am in the first year of Mechanical engineering now. I know the lifestyle that I like that gets to the worksite(field) to go through every step of the process like what you are doing now. is it possible if an ME degree can get me a job as a construction engineer like you? Thank you for anyone gave me advice.
Finishing Masters in CEM this year, looking for internship style employment for this final 10 months of school now. Any tips for what positions to pursue as an intern i.e. who to shadow that will lead to better future skill set?
I’ve been working in the field for almost a year. And I’ve been wondering about the benefits of having an MBA within the industry
Hello im a women majoring in construction management right now… any advice?
Hey Kienen, Love your videos man, you are such a university : )
I am an Architect with a Bachelor's degree and have applied for Masters in Construction Management at TAMU. Being an Architect I would like to know from you what jobs can I look forward to upon graduating as a construction Manager ? And Is it possible to work as a Project engineer with a General Contractor with this degree ?
Hello I'm an architect too I will apply to FIU next year for construction management, do you like what you are working in, with the master, any advice will be helpful , thank you!.
I’ve been in the industry for 20 years . You explain this industry perfectly . Great work man
If you get your master's degree is it possible to skip a few years on moving up.
Great question; I would say no. In my opinion, I learned way more in 3 months of working than I did for my entire degree. Work ethic and diligence on the job is what helps move you up.
What is ICC in construction
Super informative, well-organized video. Also thanks for the timestamps.
No problem, glad you enjoyed it!
This job sucks.
Either this or be a yes-man and get your knee pads... straight to the moon!!!!
I'd love to hear more of your thoughts on the owners side of the industry. Owners reps are a part of projects earlier then GCs and therefore can topically influence the project more and younger professionals can get seats at the decision making table earlier than with the GC path. I'm a senior CM major who's done everything from labor for a sub, interned with OPM and currently interning with a commercial GC. The construction curriculum pushes most students into the world of general contracting with out even mentioning the entire other side of the industry that ownership provides. I'm curious as to why you aren't a big fan of that ownership path, thank you for mentioning it though, great video!
Super awesome question Matthew! For me, there’s nothing worse than an owners rep that doesn’t understand the basics of construction. They tend to make irrational decisions and honestly lose respect because they just can’t grasp how things are done from a contractors perspective. Being in the weeds and details of a construction project as the contractor to me gives you the valuable knowledge of what it actually takes to get it done.
@@KienenKoga Interesting, I'm sure that is definitely an issue and is the case more often then not. My experience involved working with major owners rep firm who had experience with some of the most impressive projects in the industry. The OPMs at this particular company were definitely knowledgeable about the building process, many of them former GC PMs themselves. As for smaller firms and freelance owners reps I'm sure this is a more prominent issue.
Yea OPM is where it’s at it’s much easier to ride to higher positions and more lucrative. I’m currently interning for an OPM now and most likely will be offered a job upon graduation as an APM and within a few years will be an PM. 15 years to get where you want in your career is a really long time. Most people who want to be vp of companies are at that level by year 10-15.
@@christian-gu5oq been working full time as an APM for an owners rep firm for a year now and im beyond happy with my decision. World class team, extremely knowledgeable and working on the most prominent developments across the country.
A part of my assignment for uni I am making a career plan (I'm studying construction management, masters). Got back to this video again for any ideas. I have steps like an intern, some particular software skills, and a PMP certificate (a lot later), but any more ideas what you can put on the list to become a Project/Construction manager? Great vids bro! =)
Will estimating enginner make good money ? What is the round figure salary an estimating enginner makes?? Btw awesome content .. 🙌🏻
Don't quote me on this, but I think it's similar, maybe a little less but not by much. They usually have better hours than the operations guys too. Thanks Mihir!
@@KienenKoga oh I see 👍🏻👍🏻
Estimators are typically the first ones cut if a gc isn't landing jobs. That being said of you are good at it there is plentyyyy of money to be made
Is this all attainable without having to go to college?
As of now, it would be tough because most bigger companies require college degrees. Not sure if that will change, but you could possibly talk to a local firm and see if they would hire with just a high school degree and start building your experience from there.
Very helpful since I’m new in construction industry. I also have a question. Do you think me working in a windows and doors manufacturing company as QC engineer help me gain experience in construction company? Thank you for posting and making parts of my life a bit easier.
Wonderful video sir! You really helped me narrow down what I want to do when I complete my Bachelors in CM hopefully in May of 2025!
Currently interviewed for an apprentice superintendent position, I wanted to do more research on the position thank you for breaking it down, I’ve been watching your channel for the past 2 days. Im grateful for your content and it motivates me to purse a career in this field.
I'm currently studying master 1 in urban and architectural project management, I feel motivated and I can't wait to get into the industry, thank you bro
So a bachelors in Construction Management won't be enough to become a Construction Manager I thought I would just practice on the field for about 2 years minimum but not 20
Sir could you help me in finding a internship I am in 3 rd year , autocad and rivet knowledge and good grab on all the subject . My overall result is 80 %
Thank you, man!
You just helped me choose my next step. In a year a finish my degree. Can't wait!
This is interesting ig Hawaii is a little different. My friend graduated last year and already has a project engineer job with a firm in Chicago.
What's your opinion on rebar detailer, is it good path for growth.
How much is rebar detailer annual salary ?
I just want to thank you for that great video brother, you explained everything in details.
please do a video on the migration of civil engineers , leaving our industry and working in other sectors like IT
Although I am an electrical engineer. I appreciate your channel.
Wow, that is very broad range of career opportunities and pathways.
Can u do a videos that explain about the quantity surveyor? Maybe about the roles in construction and qs career
Can you discuss in a video the difference between a civil engineer in construction and management and a structural engineer?
Please make a video about the importance of getting an EIT and PE
Thanks
"...to protect the contract from the big bad... other people out there" hahaha
Do you think I could do college online for construction management?
Great video. I'm new to construction and to watch and hear from someone like yourself is great. You give insights on what's to come and I believe you give it in truth. Thanks
Thanks for the vid! Very informative!