You may enjoy working in project planning and management. Jobs in this area include project management and construction management.
Has overall responsibility for a project
Project managers take overall responsibility for the planning, management, co-ordination and financial control of a construction project. They ensure that the client's requirements are met, the project is completed on time and within budget, and that everyone else is doing their job properly. Depending on the project, responsibilities can cover all aspects form the design stage through to completion.
Project managers have good organisational and communication skills. They have lots of experience because they need to know all about the work involved in a building project, the cost and legislation and who's involved.
At the further education level there are several general construction courses that can eventually lead to a career in project management. Useful GCSE or standard grades to take are maths, science subjects, geography, information technology, art and design and technology.
Most degree courses can lead to a career in project management. It's important to learn all about the practicalities of running a project as well as economics, cost accounting and computer systems Information technology is increasingly important for managers working on site and in the office so building up skills in this area is vital. To develop your management skills you will probably be expected to take on project work in small groups and get a feel for working in teams and communicating clearly and effectively with others. Students often find out more about the role of a manager by doing some industrial experience.
Oversees the whole construction process
They may be described as site manager, building manager or simply construction manager but whichever term is used; their job is to turn a construction site - or, at least, a large part of it. This can be stressful but also highly satisfying when everything goes smoothly. A construction manager tends to be a very highly regarded, professional person with lots of experience of building projects. They usually work for contractors but can also be employed by local authorities and other construction firms.
Construction managers have great people skills and are good at presenting and debating ideas in meetings. They have an in-depth knowledge of all aspects of the construction business, are well organised and have a good head for figures
Many degree courses can lead to a career in construction management, including building studies, building engineering, construction engineering management and building technology. Whatever the course you will cover subjects as diverse as construction design and technology, commerce, contract law and building materials.
You will learn all about the management and the practicalities of running a project, whilst studying the intricacies of economics, cost accounting and computer systems. Information technology is increasingly important for managers working on site and in the office so building up skills in this area is vital.
To develop your management skills you will probably be expected to take on project work in small groups and get a feel for working in teams and communicating clearly and effectively with others.
Students often find out more about the role of a manager by doing some industrial experience as part of the course. This may even be a compulsory component, linked to a subject option or piece of coursework.