Build a Solid Foundation: Exciting Careers in Construction and Building Trades Academia!
Construction and Building Trades faculty jobs are booming amid a national skilled labor shortage and massive infrastructure investments. With the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law injecting over $1 trillion into projects, demand for educators in carpentry, masonry, welding, HVAC, and construction management has surged. Students eyeing these fields can pursue associate degrees or bachelor's in construction technology at community colleges like Lone Star College or universities such as Purdue, leading to high-employment careers with median earnings over $60,000 starting out. Aspiring professors find stable roles at technical institutes, with assistant instructors earning around $75,000 annually. Browse Higher Ed Jobs Now Before committing, check professor ratings on Construction and Building Trades faculty via Rate My Professor.
Student Guide: Launching into Construction and Building Trades
Students interested in Construction and Building Trades should start with vocational certificates in welding or plumbing, advancing to BS in Construction Management. Programs blend hands-on trades with theory, preparing for roles like site supervisors earning $95,000 median (BLS 2022). Community colleges dominate, offering apprenticeships that count toward degrees. For prestige, target four-year schools like Texas A&M. Explore career advice at higher ed career advice and rate courses via Rate My Course.
Key Study Paths
- Associate in Applied Science: Carpentry focus, 2 years, $50k entry jobs
- Bachelor's Construction Engineering Tech: 4 years, leads to management
- Certifications: OSHA, NCCER for trades like electrical
Fringe quirk: In Alaska, programs at University of Alaska Anchorage incorporate permafrost building techniques unique to the locale.
Professor Opportunities: Jobs, Salaries, and Trends
Construction and Building Trades professor jobs cluster at community colleges (60% of openings) and trade universities. Recent listings include HVAC instructor at Ferris State University and masonry lecturer positions. Salaries vary: assistant professors average $92,000, full professors $145,000 (AAUP 2023 data). Check detailed breakdowns at professor salaries. Trends show 8% growth through 2032 (BLS), driven by green building and BIM tech. Rate top faculty on Rate My Professor for Construction and Building Trades.
| Role | Median Salary (2023) | Location Example |
|---|---|---|
| Adjunct Instructor | $65,000 | California |
| Assistant Professor | $92,000 | Texas |
| Full Professor | $145,000 | New York |
Link to adjunct professor jobs or lecturer jobs. Unique anecdote: At Maine Maritime Academy, faculty teach wooden boat construction, a niche blending trades with maritime history.
Quick CTA: Search faculty jobs and review Building Trades professors.
Top Programs and Regional Hotspots
Standouts include Vermont Technical College's registered apprenticeship degrees and SUNY's heavy construction tracks. In sunny Florida, programs adapt to hurricane-resistant building. Job seekers, visit Florida higher ed jobs or Texas. Prestige rises with sustainability focus; LEED-certified faculty command premiums. More insights at university rankings.
Emerging Trends and Fringe Insights
Post-2021 IIJA, curricula emphasize modular construction and drone surveying. Diversity push: Women now 15% of trades students, up 50% since 2018. Quirky locale: Hawaiian programs cover lava flow mitigation. Stay ahead with career advice and professor feedback on Rate My Professor.
Associations for Construction and Building Trades
Associated General Contractors of America
A leading association representing contractors and construction professionals to advocate for the industry and provide education and resources in the United States.
Chartered Institute of Building
A professional body dedicated to promoting the science and practice of building and construction management worldwide, with a strong base in the UK.
International Code Council
An organization focused on developing model codes and standards to ensure safe, sustainable, and resilient construction globally.
Master Builders Australia
A national association representing the building and construction industry in Australia, providing advocacy, training, and support to its members.
European Construction Industry Federation
A federation representing construction enterprises across Europe, advocating for policies that support the industry's growth and sustainability.
Canadian Construction Association
A national organization that represents the non-residential construction sector in Canada, focusing on advocacy, education, and industry standards.
