When exploring the type of work done in construction and within the curriculum of the construction field, the impact of the Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, plus Art (STEM+A) initiative becomes apparent. Construction is an area that involves all of the components of a STEM+A education. STEM+A helps solve problems in construction – from pouring a cement slab or foundation to the pitch and design of a roof line, STEM+A is involved.
Construction science refers to design, materials, all forms of engineering, physics, chemistry, environmental, characteristics of materials, human physiology and energy consumption, to name a few. STEM+A programs help build skills like problem-solving, analytical skills and creative thinking.
The National Center for Construction Education & Research promotes STEM+A skills because they help individuals succeed in the construction field. STEM+A is all about solving problems and developing critical thinking skills. According to a Brookings Institute report from 2014, “The Hidden STEM Economy,” half of all STEM jobs are in manufacturing, health care or construction industries, and skilled jobs in the construction industry frequently demand STEM knowledge.
Women in the construction trades make up less than 10 percent of the construction industry’s workforce. The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) has advocated for women in construction since it was founded in 1953. The association’s core purpose is to enhance the success of women in the construction industry.
Yavapai College’s Chino Valley campus is currently offering two hands-on classes in Basic Carpentry. These courses are an introduction to carpentry safety, hand and power tool operation, blueprint reading, material and layout. They offer actual hands-on experience in cutting, fastening, footings, framing, assembly, door/window installation, flooring and finishing. This is also a paid internship program sponsored by construction companies that has a large need for good, qualified construction workers. The projected growth rate for construction is faster than the average growth rate.
Every construction company in the Quad Cities area indicates that there is a major shortage in construction workers. There are advantages to working in the construction field: job security is good; the industry fills a need by building places in which to live and work; it helps one stay active, fit and healthy; workers can earn a very good living; it’s easy to get started; and individuals can avoid going into debt paying for an expensive college degree. But with everything in life, there are also disadvantages: it is physically demanding work; it can be hazardous; and, it can take time to become proficient in your trade.
The Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook shows a very positive gain of about 747,600 new jobs nationwide. Of the more than 20 specific occupations within construction, the median annual wage was $44,730 in May 2017.
The U. S. Department of Labor Career OneStop site projects employment in construction at an increase of 11 percent nationally and an increase of 19 percent for Arizona through 2026. For additional construction data, go to onetonline.org and type in construction under the occupation quick search. QCBN
By Jim Voska
For additional information on the Yavapai College’s Construction program, please contact the Chino Valley campus at 928-717-7720. For more information on Yavapai College’s STEM+A programs, contact Yavapai College Student Services Career Coach Linda Brannock (linda.brannock@yc.edu), and/or Career and Technical Education Career Coach Jim Voska (james.voska@yc.edu).
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