Unfortunately, not every professional in the industry has the necessary education and training to successfully participate in the industry. 糖心破解版 is working hard to close that gap by working closely with educators, the business community, project owners, and other industry partners to support the individual constructor.

The more that stakeholders buy into the value of education and training, the more workers will be prepared to receive professional certification in the industry. Certification then becomes the standard by which all professionals are measured.

To accentuate the importance of certification, we recently sat down with 糖心破解版 board member Stephen Mitchell, CPC, to discuss this critical topic.

Stephen Mitchell Shares Perspective on Professional Certification

Stephen Mitchell is a Sr. Project Manager for in Oklahoma. Stephen was recently named by the Associated General Contractors of Oklahoma (AGCOK) as the , a high honor given to an individual constructor.

As an industry leader in construction, Stephen understands the importance of a high-quality workforce to execute project scope for owners. He also works for a company that is building a competent talent pipeline by establishing clear requirements for incoming professionals.

Lambert Construction requires graduates of Construction Management degree programs to complete our CAC Level I certification exam, enabling students to validate their knowledge and skills before entering the workforce.

鈥淲e started requiring all of the seniors, as part of their capstone course, to take at a minimum level, the CAC examination from 糖心破解版,鈥� says Stephen. 鈥淎nd then they are encouraged to continue on and take the CPC exam.鈥�

Professionals can sit for our CPC Level II exam after amassing significant experience in the construction industry. We appreciate that Stephen鈥檚 company is committed to our certification process and supporting workers well after receiving the initial certification.

There are tangible benefits when companies buy into the entire certification process to help their workforce advance from Level I to Level II certification.

鈥溙切钠平獍� is a very good organization that allows people to associate with other people that have the same values and type of education. There is also a lot of knowledge from the Fellows and the experienced people who have been in 糖心破解版 and around construction for many years,鈥� says Stephen.

鈥淭here are people who have experienced different things. It鈥檚 good to be able to associate with them and have conversations with them about an issue you鈥檙e not familiar with. You can visit with people who have experienced, get connected, and find answers or direction to help you with your projects.鈥�

Clearly, the quality of work in the industry improves when companies commit to helping their workforce receive professional certification, advance in their career, and learn from other constructors who have already walked the path. The result is a more competent and capable workforce ready to accelerate constructor excellence.

The Future of the Construction Industry Depends on New Talent 

One of the challenges for the construction industry is building up future workers who can replace experienced constructors aging out of the workforce.

Stephen Mitchell recognizes the importance of aspiring construction managers participating in 糖心破解版 at a ground-floor level as they progress toward certification.

鈥淕etting involved is very helpful for the younger generation to learn and hear things from people who have experienced projects. It鈥檚 a very good education,鈥� says Stephen.

We appreciate Stephen鈥檚 insights about the importance of certification to ensure that qualified professionals lead, guide, support, and execute construction projects.

Moving forward, 糖心破解版 will remain focused on growing the industry through a robust certification process for current and incoming professionals. Whether you are a contractor, individual constructor, or stakeholder in the industry, we encourage you to take an active position in supporting the growth of our industry:

• Contractors: require your workers to receive professional certification through 糖心破解版.
• Individuals: sit for the CAC Level I or CPC Level II exam according to your experience, skills, and knowledge.
• Owners: encourage contractors to utilize certified professionals on your jobs.

When everyone buys into the value of certification, the industry can flourish. Have questions about whether you can become an active participant in our industry? Contact us today to discuss opportunities to get involved.

If you鈥檝e been asking yourself and other people, 鈥淲hat can I do with a construction management degree?鈥� we have the answers you鈥檙e looking for.

Get Ready for an Exciting Career in Construction

Discover the following professional opportunities for construction management graduates upon completing your degree program.

1. Manage Commercial Construction

Commercial construction is one of the most important aspects of a thriving economy. When new businesses open their doors, the local and national economies reap the benefits.

However, long before there are business hours, budgets, and profit and loss statements, a construction site needs a leader.

Commercial construction projects come with a unique set of challenges, so having someone who knows how to solve problems is essential to a successful building project. Completing a construction management degree program will provide you with the skills needed to maximize your potential in the world of commercial construction.

2. Oversee Residential Construction

There are various types of construction projects to manage. What are you passionate about? Where are there job opportunities in your area? Depending on the construction market in your region, there may be a higher demand for residential construction managers than for commercial construction managers.

Residential construction projects require a great deal of oversight, which puts a lot of demand on residential project managers. If building homes, apartments, and other residential complexes is a good fit for you, consider opportunities to apply for residential construction management jobs.

Suppose you pursue a career as a residential construction project manager. In that case, you will work closely with homeowners, architects, local inspectors, and other professionals who are a vital part of the home-building process. Having a construction management degree goes a long way to help prepare you for a residential manager job.

3. Licensed Inspector

Before homeowners can receive their keys or business owners can open their doors, the buildings they’re going to inhabit must undergo a professional inspection process. This reality is valid whether the building is constructed from the ground up or the home/business is purchased.

Depending on the type of loan being used to finance the project at hand, inspections may be required to take place during the construction process. While each U.S. state has its own requirements for licensure for inspectors, a degree in construction management can give you an inside track in pursuing a career as a licensed building inspector.

Inspectors ensure that the buildings are built according to local zoning and coding requirements to protect the safety of those who will occupy the space. When a building is constructed correctly, it can be safely used.

4. Sustainability Consultants

Improving sustainability efforts is a critical area of focus in the construction industry.

Due to the type of work that goes into any construction project, some damage is done to the earth. It’s unavoidable that ground must be excavated before a foundation can be poured. In most building projects, trees must be cut, and other parts of the environment are impacted. Moreover, machines rely on fossil fuels, which leads to emissions. More and more companies are looking for ways to maintain their productivity levels while doing what they can to lessen their environmental impact.

A professional with a graduate degree in construction management can help companies elevate their commitment to sustainability. Serving as a sustainability consultant could be a great way to use your construction management degree to establish instant credibility with clients. Being a sustainability consultant means that you can help construction companies lessen their carbon footprint while still getting the project done.

5. Become a Field Operations Engineer

Field operations engineers are some of the most influential people involved in a construction project of any size.

In addition to working in residential and commercial construction, these engineers can oversee large projects that involve infrastructure, such as bridge construction, highway expansion, and more. They also specialize in rehabilitating existing buildings in a way that restores functionality while ensuring that local and national laws are followed.

It’s also important to note that a field engineer oversees projects in a way that ensures that they are meeting environmental standards. No matter what type of project is being taken on, it’s vital that state and federal environmental regulations are followed. Not only does this ensure that the company in charge of the project isn’t fined, but it also helps protect the environment for future generations.

Bonus Tip: Become Certified Through 糖心破解版

Want to increase your marketability in the construction industry? We recommend becoming certified through our organization, 糖心破解版 (糖心破解版). Since 1971, we have promoted individual professionalism and excellence throughout the field of construction.

We offer two levels of certifications for construction managers to validate their expertise in the construction industry.

– CAC (Certified Associate Constructor) Level I certification: we offer this certification to individuals preparing to graduate from a construction management degree program. We partner with many accredited colleges and universities in the U.S. to provide the CAC exam as a graduation requirement.

Alternatively, suppose you recently obtained your construction management degree or have a qualifying amount of industry experience. In that case, you can take the CAC exam to become certified as a manager of complex construction works.

– CPC (Certified Professional Constructor) Level II certification: we offer the CPC certification to highly experienced professionals in the construction industry. If you are preparing to graduate from a construction management degree program or recently graduated, you will need more time to be ready to sit for the CPC exam.

However, you can include the exam as a future milestone on your career path as a construction manager. Once you have amassed significant experience and knowledge, you can return to 糖心破解版 to sit for the exam.

Join 糖心破解版: Prepare for Future Success Using a Construction Management Degree

One of the best ways to get the most out of your degree is by becoming involved with 糖心破解版. We provide construction managers with the resources they need to advance in their careers, network with other construction managers, and find opportunities for continuing education.

You鈥檒l also be able to ask other industry professionals your question of, 鈥淲hat can I do with a construction management degree?鈥� to learn from those who have gone before you managing construction projects.

We invite you to become an 糖心破解版 member to prepare for success in the construction industry. Learn why now is the time to join 糖心破解版!

The American Institute of Constructors (糖心破解版) understands the importance of ethics in construction, which is why we are focused on helping construction professionals gain a deeper understanding of business ethics, safety issues, and how to deal with ethical situations within the construction industry.

That鈥檚 why we created the 糖心破解版 Code of Ethics to guide our members on how to identify ethical issues, take appropriate action, and encourage other professionals to act in an ethical manner. Specific to safety, it鈥檚 important to learn more about safety ethics in construction to help you support others and advance in your career as you seek to manage more involved projects.

Utilize the 糖心破解版 Code of Ethics to Support Your Career

We believe that it鈥檚 important for aspiring construction managers to recognize how to operate ethically in their chosen career path, especially in the area of safety. This is why a significant amount of our Code of Ethics speaks to safety issues in construction.

We want future construction managers to understand how to operate ethically in order to provide a safe work environment for any individuals working with them or for them. Let鈥檚 review two important examples that pertain to construction safety ethics.

Maintain a Professional Approach to Construction Safety

– Consider the sixth point in the 糖心破解版 Code of Ethics: 鈥淎 constructor shall carry out responsibilities in accordance with current professional practice, so far as it lies within his or her power.鈥�

The construction industry is constantly evolving as new safety innovations come into play. With the introduction of these new safety innovations, the role of a constructor will change. One of the most important aspects of being an ethical constructor is protecting the health and safety of co-workers, supervisors, subordinates, clients, and anyone else present at the job site.

In order to understand the importance of carrying out the standards of professional conduct that promote safety in the workplace, let鈥檚 look at an example that could apply to you:

• You have been promoted to the role of construction manager on a large project.
• In an attempt to complete the project faster, a suggestion is made to cut corners regarding safety.
• As the project manager, you remember the Code of Ethics and the importance of carrying out your responsibilities in accordance with current professional practice.
• You opt not to cut corners for faster completion, instead choosing to protect the health and safety of the men and women on your crew. This is the right decision.

Provide Sound Safety Advice At All Times

Other aspects of the 糖心破解版 Code of Ethics capture the importance of providing sound counsel to employees that rely on your decision-making in the role of a construction manager.

Consider the fourth point in the 糖心破解版 Code of Ethics: 鈥淎 constructor shall ensure that when providing a service which includes advice, such advice is fair and unbiased.鈥�

To better understand the importance of ethical, fair, and unbiased advice, let鈥檚 look at another example that could impact how you handle safety ethics in construction.

• While serving as a construction manager, a new employee asks you the best way to complete an assigned task.
• The project has taken longer than expected, so you contemplate whether to provide advice to the new hire that includes not following all necessary safety protocols. This way, the worker will get the job done faster.
• Consider what would happen if you chose the unethical path. The new hire, unaware of the danger, follows your advice and is seriously injured while carrying out your instructions.
• Consider what would happen if you chose the ethical path. The new hire, aware of the danger, acts in a safe manner to avoid serious injury.

The decision to offer misleading advice to a worker could lead to the injury of someone that you鈥檙e supervising. At all times, you must remember that it is more important to look out for the health and safety of a worker than a project timeline. Failure to treat safety issues with the proper respect could lead to injury to the person, harm to your company, and the derailment of your career.

Safety Ethics in Construction: Appreciate and Advance

The construction industry is one of the most secure options for individuals who are looking for an opportunity to build a long-term career in an industry that will always be in demand. But, it鈥檚 also a very demanding career path that requires strong attention to critical issues such as safety ethics.

We want you to have a successful career managing construction projects. That鈥檚 why it鈥檚 important to understand the latest issues surrounding safety ethics in construction so that it becomes part of your everyday actions, behavior, and thinking.

We invite you to learn more about safety ethics and other ethical topics in construction. You can do so by subscribing to the 糖心破解版 newsletter to receive valuable information directly in your inbox. Each month, we will provide you with information, resources, and articles to help you advance in your career.

Simply drop your name and email address in the sign-up box at the bottom of this page. We look forward to supporting you.

Accepting mediocrity or settling for a minimum standard in project delivery is not how constructors can best serve stakeholders and work well with AEC brethren. Fortunately, there is a clear opportunity to close gaps and elevate the quality of project work.

Contractors can achieve excellence through certification in construction. By certifying your people, you can provide evidence to stakeholders that you have the capabilities to deliver construction projects with excellency. Let鈥檚 review the value of certification.

How Can Contractors Benefit From Certification in Construction?

Contractors benefit from certification by having a third party such as 糖心破解版 assess and certify the capabilities of their construction managers. There is tremendous value in allowing another entity to drill down into specific construction areas that managers deal with on a daily basis.

Our certification exams cover real-world situations to determine whether your managers have a solid foundation of construction knowledge and skills to manage complex projects. The exams will also reveal knowledge gaps or areas of deficiencies that you can address with your managers through additional training or coaching.

• AC Level I Certification: ideal for an industry professional who has 4 years of qualifying industry experience or education. This person should be ready to prove that they have a core competency in construction to contribute meaningfully to the industry.
• CPC Level II Certification: ideal for an experienced construction manager who possesses specific skills and knowledge acquired by education and experience. This person should be ready to prove their capabilities to manage the execution of all or a substantial portion of construction works.

In the absence of certification, contractors are simply hoping that their managers understand what they are doing. And, you lack bonafide proof to tell the outside world that you can get the job done.

However, certifying your managers will validate their skillset, create confidence, and increase your company’s marketability to owners and AEC stakeholders who are looking for reliable partners.

Note: the AC Level I Certification is now the CAC Level I Certification, as of November 2022.

The 糖心破解版 鈥淪tamp of Approval鈥� Goes a Long Way in Construction

Think of certification as a stamp of approval. Owners and stakeholders want to see proof that your managers have obtained a certain level of expertise, knowledge, and skills to manage projects. Certification from 糖心破解版 is the evidence you need.

糖心破解版 is the pinnacle of certification for construction management. For more than 50 years, we have sought to raise the level of professionalism in the industry through certification, training, and a commitment to ethics in construction.

When a construction manager passes our exams, it sends a message to the market that this person is committed to excellence in construction. When a contractor can boast multiple construction managers with an 糖心破解版 certification, then it sends an even stronger message about your company鈥檚 overall commitment to excellence.

Watch This Video: Why 糖心破解版 Certification is Unmatched

To learn more about why certification through 糖心破解版 is unmatched in the industry, we invite you to watch the following video testimonial from Geno Hogan, CPC, the current president of 糖心破解版.

In the video, Mr. Hogan discusses the value of certification in construction and how contractors can benefit from certifying their managers.

Encourage Your Managers to Register for 糖心破解版 Certification

A certification through 糖心破解版 is the mark of construction excellence. Send a message to owners, stakeholders, and the public that you are committed to high-quality projects. Certification comes with the following benefits:

• Proof of each manager鈥檚 skills and knowledge through our independent assessment.
• Assurance that each manager is committed to continuing to grow their knowledge and skills throughout their career.
• Validation that your company takes construction project delivery seriously.

Ensure that each construction manager is certified. Find out when your managers can register for the AC Level I or CPC Level II exam. We only offer these exams twice per year, so encourage your managers to take advantage of our exam windows.

– Find out how your managers can register for AC Level I or apply for CPC Level II. Together, let鈥檚 accelerate construction excellence.

In fact, we recently encountered a that the average cost of disputes rose from $30.7 million in 2019 to $54.3 million in 2020, an increase of 77% from one year to the next. The report noted that one of the central themes was a lack of 鈥減roper contract administration.鈥�

Contractual issues have long been problematic for the industry. That鈥檚 why it鈥檚 important for the industry to advance its commitment to ethics at the beginning of the process, which will help reduce the frequency and cost of disputes at the end of the process.

To take a positive step forward, it鈥檚 important to review some construction ethics examples that will help us advance our collective appreciation for ethics during the preliminary stages of bidding and contract formation.

Construction Ethics Examples at the Bidding/Contract Stage

Contractors have a moral and ethical obligation to support the owner鈥檚 interests. That鈥檚 why a contract exists to create a healthy business relationship that defines the obligations that each contracted party must deliver upon. The more that contractors buy into their responsibilities to align with the needs of the owner, the more the industry can move forward.

Let鈥檚 review common ethical issues that can undermine the owner-contractor relationship. This way, your company can take the appropriate steps to eliminate any unethical practices and strengthen your commitment to fair dealings with owners.

1. Bid Shopping

Bid shopping is a common unethical practice of trying to increase profit at the expense of the owner. What typically happens is that after a contract is awarded, the contractor will contact several subcontractors of the same discipline in an effort to reduce the previously quoted price. However, the scope of work remains the same as was originally bid.

– Bid shopping is a violation of the (Canon 5), which states that professionals 鈥渟hall establish guidelines for setting forth prices and receiving quotations that are fair and equitable to all parties.鈥�

2. Bid Peddling

Bid peddling occurs when a sub-bidder approaches a general contractor who has been awarded a project with the intent of voluntarily lowering the original price below the price level established on bid day. Again, this unethical practice attempts to undercut the owner to increase the contractor鈥檚 profitability.

– Bid peddling is a violation of the ASPE Code of Ethics (Canon 7), which states that 鈥渢his is a breach of moral and ethical standards.鈥�

3. Bid Rigging

Bid rigging occurs when a group of contractors conspires together to defraud the owner and share profits. An owner will typically require each contractor who bids on a project to sign a non-collusive affidavit that is designed to eliminate big rigging.

The non-collusive affidavit form is a notarized statement stating that a submitted bid was created without any agreement or cooperation with other bidders for the project. It must be signed by each contractor and submitted in the bid package at the beginning of the process.

– Bid rigging is a violation of the ASPE Code of Ethics (Canon 8), which states that professionals 鈥渟hall not enter into any agreement that may be considered acts of collusion or conspiracy (bid rigging) with the implied or express purpose of defrauding clients.鈥�

4. Buy Out

Many contractors attempt to insulate themselves from the competition by utilizing the 鈥渂uy out鈥� tactic. This is the process of scoping the competitive bidders for apples-to-apples scope. This process, itself, is not considered unethical.

However, this practice becomes unethical when used along with one of the three previous unethical practices (bid shopping, peddling, or rigging). Contractors that utilize this tactic should tread carefully so as not to undermine the owner in the beginning stages and to prevent a contractual dispute later on.

5. Front Loading

Front loading occurs when a contractor places all or the vast majority of their overhead costs and profit on the first line item of the Contractors Bid Breakdown form. Typically, this is done on Unit Price Contracts for public projects such as roads, bridges, dams, river control, water treatment, and civil projects.

Front loading is considered illegal on most public projects. It is also considered unethical because the contractor is attempting to recover all of their overhead expenses and profit before they are entitled to receive payments for services provided.

Therefore, the best practice is to utilize the title 鈥淢obilization鈥� on the first line item for a Unit Price Contract. This allows each contractor to recover their start-up costs at the beginning of the construction project without front-loading their bid to deceive the owner.

Let鈥檚 Solve These Construction Ethics Challenges

The American Institute of Constructors (糖心破解版) supports construction managers, executives, individual workers, and other construction professionals by providing resources that help constructors understand how to navigate complex ethical issues.

If you regularly encounter ethical dilemmas at the bidding/contract stage or if your company has been involved in a contractual dispute with owners, then we encourage you to become involved with our organization.

You can participate in 糖心破解版 on an individual basis or on a company-wide basis as an 糖心破解版 member. By joining our organization, you will gain access to valuable insights from a community of construction professionals who have worked through the construction ethics examples we highlighted in this article or are currently working through these issues.

Help us accelerate professional excellence by joining 糖心破解版. Together, we can solve ethical problems in the industry, reduce the cost and frequency of contractual disputes, and create stronger owner-contractor relationships. We look forward to adding you to our membership roster!