In 2022, the amount of building permits filed in the South has more than doubled the amount of permits in the Northeast, Midwest and West combined, according to NAHB housing data.
These statistics show there’s never been a better time for people in Tennessee and North Georgia to choose a career in construction.
“Construction can be a great career. It allows you to work with your hands, be creative and learn many different trades,” says Brent Mercer of Brent Mercer Homes and Construction Services. “The opportunities can be endless and the sky can be the limit if that’s what you want to make of it.”
With October being Careers in Construction Month, here are more benefits for choosing a construction career path:
Job security
The demand for housing is still high – particularly in the South – and there’s a shortage of skilled workers, meaning higher pay and better benefits.
Additionally, with a skills gap and upcoming wave of retirees, there will be a demand for 1 million craft professionals by 2023, according to byf.org.
Helping your community
Skilled workers build the homes and apartments we live in, the businesses we frequent in Chattanooga and the surrounding communities, the highways we travel and more. There’s a sense of pride that comes with knowing you’re helping your neighbors and fellow Chattanoogans.
Earn a good salary
Construction laborers can earn as much as $50,000 per year, with foremen earning up to $83,000 annually. Electricians can earn on average up to $88,000 per year.
Many companies also offer sign-on bonuses to recruit new employees as the need for skilled workers continues to grow. That also means more opportunities for career growth.
Easy to get started
There are numerous skilled labor jobs that require little or no experience or formal education. Construction companies are always looking for hard working people to train.
Many offer an “earn as you learn” model that provides a paycheck while you gain valuable skills.
Travel flexibility
If you choose to travel outside the beautiful Tennessee valley, the possible destinations for jobs in construction are endless.
Construction happens in every U.S. state and every country around the world. And your office views could be ever changing as you build an amusement park, houses in different areas, restaurants and more.
If you’d like to discuss career opportunities with reputable companies in the Chattanooga area, visit our membership directory at www.HBAGC.net for the contact information for businesses in hundreds of construction and building categories.