Exploring Careers in Construction
6 mins read

Exploring Careers in Construction

Are you ready for a job change or looking for a place to start? This fall Plano Public Libraries has a series of virtual programs exploring all sorts of careers! Coming up on October 9 at 2 p.m. is Exploring Careers in Construction.

Construction is a vital job that creates homes, roads, hospitals and pretty much every structure you see around you. Whether it is on a small or large scale this job is important and dynamic. If you are eager to put your hands and brain to use, this is might be the job for you.

This class is virtual and you will need to register. Find your comfortable spot and tune in for this hour-long program.

Collin College, in partnership with Plano Public Library, will guide you on how to get started in various construction careers and what courses, certificates, and licensing you might need. It will be an information-packed session, so get ready to take notes! Continue reading for resources from the library, City of Plano and Collin College.

Library Resources

To get yourself ready, you might want to explore some of the related resources we have here at the library.

Programs

Want to boost your professional and personal skills? Check out our recent blog post on upcoming Business and Career workshops.

Databases and eLibrary
  • Linkedin Learning has some excellent “Learning paths” in construction. These courses range from beginner to advanced. They are are great way to get an idea of what is involved in working in construction.
  • Reference Solutions is a great place to do research about careers and their related markets. It is also a great place to search for jobs and internships.
  • Check out publications and articles from Press Reader: Construction Week 
  • Learning Express offers a career snapshot series on plumber and pipefitter, electrician, heating and cooling technician, and construction managers. You’ll find a description of the job and working environment, skills and licenses need, as well as related fields. 
  • The Ebsco Vocational and Career Collection provides access to nearly 340 trade and industry-related periodicals. 
  • If you know what careers you want to explore, Credo offers links to videos and articles on variety of subjects, as well as shows related areas of interest. 
Interesting Reads:
  • Start Your Own Construction and Contracting Business by Rich Mintzer: Focusing on budgeting and estimating — the least understood but most important factors of a contracting business.
  • Careers in Architecture and Construction by Barbara Sheen: An helpful resource that explores jobs in these fields.
  • Skywalkers : Mohawk ironworkers build the city by David Weitzman: Narrative text and photographs examines Native American history and the development of structural engineering and architecture, focusing on Mohawk ironworkers.
  • The Panic Free Job Search by Paul Hill: This guide has some helpful strategies on how to search for a job on the internet and through social networks.
  • 1000 Best Job Hunting Secrets by Diana Stafford and Moritza Day: Another job search job guide that gives you some new strategies to finding the job of your dreams.
  • Cool Careers For Dummies by Marty Nemko and Richard N. Bolles: Will help you discover what you really want out of life, what your passions are, and how well you perform in different environments, and then shows you how to use this information to find a career that suits you. Now revised and up-to-date, this easy-to-use guidebook helps you explore your job options and make clear-minded decisions
  • Cool Careers without college for people who can build things by Heather Moore Niver: Readers can consider careers as a gardener, sculptor, tailor, carpenter, and even doll maker. Not only can they learn how to break into these fields, but each section has a listing of resources to further their research.
  • Electrician  exam study guide by B. D Coffin

Most print books on construction can be found in the 690‘s in the library’s Non-Fiction collection

Video Resources 

Do video resources sound more appealing? You can visit one of the many training courses in LinkedIn Learning to find answers to some of your trade questions including: 

Explore the trades through videos from Great Courses on Kanopy:  

Resources for home improvement or DIY hobbies  

Even if you are not thinking of entering a career in construction, there are many home improvement and DIY projects. Some of these projects can also be done with younger children to get them interested in building and construction. Here are some library resources to help you explore these projects. 

 Resources to Inspire Young Children  

The library also has STEAM kits available for check out.  These are hands-on, building kits that teach and inspire. 


City of Plano Resources

City of Plano’s Property Standards department is now lending out tools! Learn more about this new program.


Collin College Resources

Collin College offers certification programs in Construction ManagementConstruction Technology – CarpentryHVAC, and Welding Technology


Resources that support the business side of construction  

Perhaps running a business involving the trades appeals to you more. Plano Library partners with SCORE mentoring to offer expert business mentors dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground and grow. 


Be sure to register for Exploring Careers in Construction, and join us on Saturday, October 9 at 2 p.m.

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