There are different types of foremen because certain jobs are too large for one foreman to manage. Construction projects are divided up into several different jobs such as electrical, plumbing, floors, walls, landscape, and so on.
Education and training to become a foreman takes years of experience as a construction worker, refined skills, and a bachelor’s or master’s degree in construction science or civil engineering. Working under pressure is very common for any foreman, because not only must the construction be completed within a given time frame, but the quality of the work should be high. If there are any problems or accidents the foreman should be on top of the situation. Analyzing and solving problems quickly is necessary and should be a part of any good foreman’s arsenal.
Since there are many aspects of the construction process, foremen must be well versed in a variety of construction methods and procedures. Foreman professionals should know many legal and business principles.
The American Council for Construction Education is a private non-profit organization that helps promote, educate, accredit educational construction programs, and improve post-secondary construction education. The ACCE also offers baccalaureate degree programs in universities in many states.
Certification is highly recommended because companies would like the highest qualified professionals available with the most education and training. There are several organizations and certifications available that will show competence and an excellent skill set in construction, such as the Construction Management Association (which provides the certified construction manager certificate or CCM) and the American Institute of Contractors (which offers the associate constructor certificate, or AC, and the certified professional constructor certificate, or CPC).
Construction jobs are becoming increasingly more complex in nature; with this being said, emphasis on a high level of education in new laws in construction building, new technologies, and worker safety standards must be acquired by foremen professionals. The nature of the construction of the business changes; therefore, those who work in the field must adapt to the changes as well, or be left behind.
With the declining housing market in recent years, the availability of construction jobs has decreased as well. That does not mean foreman jobs are not out there. Foreman jobs may increase because of the population growth, and with the improving economic situation on the horizon, residential and commercial projects will increase the need for foremen.
Foremen may have to travel to far out locations on a daily basis and should be available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Working hours also may exceed forty hours per week because construction may be done at any time. The ability to speak Spanish may also be beneficial to many foremen, because many construction workers are Spanish speaking.
Earnings for foremen will depend on many factors such as location, type of project, experience, and economical situations. The salaries can range anywhere from $60,000 to $135,000 per year.
