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Arizona is experiencing high economic growth despite inflation, post-pandemic effects, and overseas wars. This is great news for many people seeking jobs, as economic growth means new populations and businesses booming like never before. With more people and businesses comes a need for one industry in particular: construction. Whether you’re a builder, manager, or architect, the construction industry in Arizona is seeing massive growth. Starting a career in Arizona construction is a great choice for many reasons.
Construction in Arizona is Long-Term
Arizona is seeing no shortage of construction projects due to economic growth. According to an August 2023 Employment Report from the Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity, they’ve added thousands of construction jobs in that month alone, not to mention predicting that nearly 40,000 construction jobs will be added in the next decade. This means that both seasoned and fresh employees will see more opportunities in construction than ever before.
Construction Training in Arizona
There are many affordable training and education programs dedicated to the need for construction talent. Arizona Western College, Mesa Community College, and many more offer some sweeping construction training programs for current and future construction projects. This can also present some great opportunities for teaching construction programs.
Construction Pays
The average hourly wage of an entry-level construction worker can be $30, which is notably higher than many entry-level jobs. In Arizona, averages can be as high as $36. This is because construction requires skills and expertise that don’t come easily. While you do need a general contractor license, a four-year degree isn’t completely necessary, which also earns you more money in the long run. The best way to get an AZ general contractor license on your first try is to visit RocketCert and practice before the actual test.
Arizona Construction Employers
Arizona has plenty of construction businesses that constantly need hands. In addition, facilities such as the Innovation and Craft Workforce Center (ICWC) built by construction company McCarthy in 2023 support craft and construction training, making a career even easier. Construction startups and career growth are highly supported here. McCarthy, Hunter Contracting, Haydon Building, and more are based in Arizona, providing plenty of career opportunities.
Starting a Career in Arizona Construction
College or Not?
While a four-year degree isn’t necessary for construction, some may want to obtain business degrees, construction management degrees, and more; they look good on a resume and are a good start to a career path. Arizona has no shortage of construction training programs as mentioned before, and many universities provide local opportunities for bachelor’s degrees if desired.
Construction Apprenticeships
Alternatively to a bachelor’s degree, many construction companies, even in Arizona, offer apprenticeships or internships to help you learn actively in the field. This provides insight into what the job looks like, and how to communicate with clients, and puts your foot in the door for construction companies to consider.
Entry-Level Employment
Education or apprenticeships will help you gain entry-level employment for a wide variety of companies or contractors in Arizona. Entry-level jobs are important for building the beginning of a strong resume. You’ll also need certification and licensing at this point.
Construction Management in Arizona
After this, many go on to more qualified jobs in the construction industry. Management opportunities are great ways to advance career growth. Arizona is in dire need of construction and project managers, as residential and commercial construction projects are on the rise.
Construction Partnership or Business Startup
Whether your goal is to become a partner of an existing construction firm or start your own construction business, it’s easy with a strong resume, training, and certification. You should ideally already have skills in keeping clients, organizing projects, and overseeing new hires. This makes for a great construction startup.
Arizona Needs Construction Professionals
It’s predicted that over the next decade, nearly half of Arizona’s construction workers will be retired. With the economy and need for construction projects only growing, this creates a need for skilled workers to continue joining the industry. This presents stable employment, lucrative salaries, and opportunities to grow—all elements of a great career opportunity in the long term. It’s estimated that nearly 200,000 jobs will need to be filled over the next few years, according to the Greater Phoenix Chamber Foundation.
Types of Construction Projects
Arizona is seeing all types of projects from commercial to residential. New residential neighborhoods, homes, suburbs, and parks need to be built with more people moving to the state. Economic growth means new commercial buildings, warehouses, and offices will need to be constructed. Renovation for existing commercial and residential projects will boom as well. Roads and highways will need renovation and rebuilding to connect everything. Whatever niche or certification your career takes you, there is an opportunity in Arizona for it all.
Conclusion
Construction is a great choice if you’re looking for a stable opportunity in Arizona. There is a strong need for workers in the long term, no shortage of projects and companies to choose from, and great training programs to put more experience under your belt. With proper licensing and training, Arizona can be a permanent home for those looking to expand their expertise in construction.
