THINK YOU KNOW WHAT IT’S LIKE TO WORK IN ROAD CONSTRUCTION? THINK AGAIN!

Across the nation, skilled-trade workers are in high demand – this includes the highway construction sector. To meet the demands of our growing state, road contractors have an immediate need for qualified workers who are ready to start a career that offers great pay, training, job satisfaction and the opportunity to move up. If you’re just starting out and don’t know much about a highway construction career, you may share some of these common myths.

MYTH #1
I CAN’T MAKE A DECENT LIVING WITHOUT A FOUR-YEAR DEGREE.

REALITY
Skilled trades, including road construction, have just as many opportunities for success! All you need is a willingness to learn and a desire to do your best. The average starting pay varies by position, but generally is around $25,000 – and those who stick with it can make more than $75,000 a year!

MYTH #2
ROAD CONSTRUCTION JOBS ARE DANGEROUS.

REALITY
Any type of construction work exposes workers to dangers. All highway contractors are required to have a safety program to ensure the safety of workers operating and working around heavy equipment. And if you’re the type who likes to keep people safe, consider a traffic control job. These workers assist not only with the construction project itself, but they also set up safety barriers and assist with moving traffic safely through work zones, protecting both workers and motorists.

MYTH #3
ROAD CONSTRUCTION JOBS ARE NOT FOR WOMEN.

REALITY
While this sector is currently male-dominated, the number of women entering highway construction is increasing each year. The reality is that many women find their skills are well-suited for highway construction and the work rewarding.

MYTH #4
HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION JOBS ARE A DEAD END.

REALITY
There are so many career paths in highway construction it would be hard to name them all! For those who work hard, there are lots opportunities for career advancement and job satisfaction. Many workers advance into supervisory or management positions. As with any career, the level of progression depends on the skills and ambition of the worker.

MYTH #5
HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION JOBS REQUIRE A LOT OF PHYSICAL STRENGTH.

REALITY
While a few jobs do involve physical strength, the real requirements are dexterity, stamina and good hand-eye coordination. Equally as important are employability skills such as: being on time for work, communications skills, teamwork, paying attention to detail and problem-solving. In addition, with advancements in technology, many road construction jobs, particularly those involving heavy equipment, require workers to understand technology and how to use a computer.

MYTH #6
ROAD CONSTRUCTION JOBS AREN’T REWARDING.

REALITY
Ask any highway construction worker what he or she likes best about their job and most will tell you it’s the satisfaction and pride they feel from having had a hand in building a road or bridge that helps keep our state running. And, every day is different – job sites change and you’re not doing the same thing over and over, so getting bored isn’t an option!