There are several building trades with vast differences between them
"Construction worker" is a very non-specific term disliked by many tradesmen. The fact is that when you see a building going up many different trades are involved, all with their own specific task. If you're interested in working construction, it will help to know about the different trades the term encompasses. This way you can decide which construction related job appeals to you.
Ironworkers
Ironworkers lay the steel and concrete foundations for bridges and commercial buildings, often from many stories above the ground. As such, a fear of heights is an immediate disqualifier. Job prospects for ironworkers are good, with a projected 12 percent growth between 2008 and 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. While ironworkers earn good wages (particularly if they are unionized) bad weather can reduce annual wages, as the work ironworkers do is very sensitive to weather. An apprenticeship lasting between three and four years which combines workplace and classroom training is recommended for those wishing to break into this trade.
Carpenters
Carpenters are construction workers who work with wood. On construction sites this may mean framing, making boxes for concrete pours or installing cabinetry. It frequently takes between three and four years to learn the trade of carpentry, regardless of whether you learn it through a vocational or technical school, apprenticeship or on-the-job training. Good physical shape and math skills including algebra and geometry are also helpful. An estimated growth of 13 percent is anticipated between 2008 and 2018 by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Drywallers
Drywallers put up wall boards and coverings. Drywall, a piece of gypsum sandwiched between two pieces of heavy paper, came to replace plaster because it was less expensive and easier to install. The work can require great physical exertion and some wall boards are greatly oversized. Drywalling is generally done indoors. Most drywallers acquire their skills either through on-the-job training or formal apprenticeship programs. There is an expected growth of 12 percent from 2008 to 2018 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Drafters
If you love construction but don't love the physically strenuous and sometimes dangerous conditions that accompany construction trades, you may be interested in drafting. Drafters design and draw blueprints for buildings that those in the building trades work from to erect structures. Drafters sometimes visit job sites, but most of their work is done in offices in front of their computers. As such, workplace hazards include back, eye, hand and wrist problems. There are many specialty areas within drafting such as electrical drafting, structural detailing and civil drafting. Wages vary by specialty but drafters with more diversified training are more employable and better paid than those with more narrow training.
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