General contractors usually combine hands-on experience with higher education. Your career path will be determined by your state’s laws and your career goals.
Unsure where to begin? This timeline will help you set your goals, even if you are starting from zero. How to become a contractor without any experience.
Table of Contents
1. Decide Your Career Goals
Decide on your career objectives before applying for apprenticeships or education programs. You should also choose a profession to start in. There are many general contractors who started as carpenters. However, this is not the only route. Others begin their careers as HVAC technicians, plumbers or electricians.
It’s not necessary to limit yourself to one particular craft. While you should have a solid foundation in carpentry skills, such as operating machinery, it isn’t essential. You can start your career in another area if it excites you. If you want to become a general builder, it’s important to have a wide range of skills.
2. Get Hands-On Experience
You can begin your search for practical experience in the field you want to pursue after determining your career goals. This usually involves completing an apprentice. Apprenticeships combine classroom learning with practical training. Apprenticeships are often paid.
You can begin to determine if you want to pursue a career by gaining practical experience rather than just studying. Would you enjoy working in construction as a whole? Or would you prefer to specialize in electrical work? Do you prefer to be a subcontractor or a general contractor?
Many states also require that you have construction experience to obtain a license as a general contractor. You can achieve your goal to become a general contractor faster if you have this experience.
3. Get The Education You Need
You’ll have likely completed some coursework if you complete an apprentice. If you’re interested in becoming a general contractor, it is still wise to continue your education.
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, construction managers usually hold a Bachelor’s degree, either in engineering, construction, business, or a closely related field, such as construction management. In most states, you will need to have a high-school diploma at the very least before you can apply for a general contractor’s licence. Some states require certifications and training such as a prelicensure class.
4. Get Your General Contractor’s License
You can earn your general contractor’s license with the right education and experience. Research how to obtain a license in your area. Licensing is usually done at a state level. However, it can also be done at a city or county. You may not even need a license in some places. You can find out government offices in your area by doing a quick Google search.
The licensing requirements vary depending on the location. However, some of them are:
- At least 18 years of age
- Working legally in the U.S.
- A high school diploma is equivalent to a GED.
- Clean work history
- Previous construction experience
- How to pass the exam for a contractor’s license
- Proof of Insurance or Bonding
Contractors In Pennsylvania: Start Your Career Today
Pennsylvania is the Keystone State. It’s where history, industry and natural beauty meet. Pennsylvania’s rich heritage, diverse terrains, and busy urban centres such as Philadelphia and Pittsburgh make it ideal for anyone looking to start a rewarding contracting career. Contractors will find many opportunities in Pennsylvania, from historic restorations in Philadelphia’s cobblestoned streets to new developments in Pittsburgh’s vibrant neighbourhoods. Pennsylvania’s robust industry, friendly business climate and high demand for qualified professionals makes it an attractive place to start your contracting career.
Contractor insurance PA is a must for contractors. Understanding the coverage needed for your occupation can protect your career and your financial security.
5. Create A Business Plan
You can start your construction company after you have obtained the necessary licensing in your area. It’s important to create a business plan for any new business. This will help you set goals and guide your growth.
Considerations to include in a business plan include
How to register your business (limited-liability company, S corporation or partnership, for example)
What type of projects do you intend to accept?
How you intend to find work (advertising, social media or referrals etc.).
Financial planning (costs of renting construction equipment or workers’ compensation insurance, if you hire employees, marketing costs, etc.).
Don’t forget to prepare a business plan if you are looking for financial assistance to launch your new business.
6. Reputation Building
After putting together a solid business plan, you can now focus on building your reputation as a contractor. You can get work for your business by having a good reputation. Clients can’t hire you if they aren’t aware of your company!
Here are some strategies that you can use to get your name out in the world:
Join forces with other businesses and vendors. You can create professional relationships, which may lead to referrals. Say, for example, that a homeowner recently finished electrical upgrades and is now looking for help with renovations. You can land the job if you know the electrician that worked with the client.
Demonstrate your abilities through excellent customer service and work. You will have a greater chance of getting referrals if your clients are happy with your service. Double-check all the details, such as drawers and paint lines that are in good condition.
Create a positive working environment. You can also gain referrals by making a good impression on your employees. A happy staff can also reduce turnover, making your job easier.
7. Continue To Grow Your Skill Set
Remember your professional development as your business grows. You can do this by:
Keep up with the latest industry trends. Construction industry changes constantly. Understanding the latest industry trends can help you to adjust your financial or business plans as needed.
Learning new soft or hard skills. You can learn a new skill, such as plumbing, in order to broaden your knowledge. You could also take courses to improve your leadership and communication skills.
Maintaining current training in accordance with the license requirements of your area. Some regions require that you continue your education in order to remain licensed. Check with the government office that issued your general contractor license to see if this is required in your area.
To expand your skills and knowledge, you can enroll in online courses or continuing education classes offered by the government. The North America’s Building Trades Union and the Associated General Contractors of America both offer education training.
Your business will be more successful if you improve your knowledge and skills.
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