As the year winds down and we begin making plans and resolutions for the new year, we often look back at the past year for inspiration and guidance. Recent trends greatly affect our decisions about the future, and rightly so. The new year is traditionally a time when people get motivated to make changes in their life, and one of these changes is often their career path.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the construction industry added 46,000 jobs in November of 2015 alone, with residential specialty trades accounting for 26,000 of those. Overall, the industry has grown by over a quarter of a million jobs in 2015 at last count. With a median hourly rate for general laborers at almost twice that of the federal minimum wage, and skilled labor rates significantly higher than that according to BLS statistics, now would seem like a great time to look into one of the many fields offered by the construction industry.

Like any other industry, the most benefit comes to those who are constantly refining their trade and increasing their skill and marketability. This can take the form of apprenticeships, certifications, and licensing in the construction trades. According to Stephen Sandherr, chief executive officer for the Associated General Contractors, in a recent survey, 86 percent of respondents stated that they are having difficulty filling hourly craft and salaried professional positions due to a glut in skilled professional craftsmen.

iContractor.net can help tradesmen and women of all levels of skill prepare for trade certification and licensing examinations. Visit us today to see how we can help you increase your potential.

By Dale Jewson Research and Development for the Arizona Contractor License Center