Industrial Complex Construction Education and Training

Learn how to obtain the credentials you need to work on industrial complexes

By Lesley Graybeal
Industrial complex construction is a complicated undertaking, so each building site requires oversight by general contractors or construction managers. The licensing requirements to become a commercial building contractor differ by state, but most clients prefer to work with contractors and managers who have a bachelor's degree or other official form of certification.

In addition to formal education and training, complex and warehouse builders should also have substantial on-the-job experience in a craft of construction such as carpentry, masonry or plumbing. A commercial warehouse builder may also benefit from skills in the first language of his construction workers, which in many areas of the United States may be Spanish rather than English.

Obtain industrial complex construction education and training from the following sources:
  1. Get an advanced degree in construction management or civil engineering online.
  2. Become a certified construction manager before working on industrial complexes.
  3. Get licensed as a contractor to work in industrial complex construction.

 

Earn a degree in a construction-related field to manage construction of industrial warehouses

In order to become ideally qualified to overseeing the construction of industrial warehouses and complexes, look into bachelor's and masters degrees in construction management, construction science, civil engineering and other related fields. While advanced degrees are not explicitly required, they provide evidence of the advanced management skills necessary in industrial complex construction.
Try: Ferris State University has an online bachelor's degree in construction management. Norwich University offers a Masters of Civil Engineering online degree designed for people who are currently working in construction.

Join industrial warehouse builders by becoming a certified construction manager

For the construction of many industrial buildings, you may only need to have a certification provided by one of the main construction management associations in the United States. Becoming a certified construction manager involves a combination of experience and education, and allows very experienced individuals to compensate for a lack of formal education.
Try: Read about the certification process offered by the Construction Management Association of America and become a certified construction manager. The American Institute of Constructors also offers a similar type of certification credential.

Manage industrial buildings as a licensed general contractor

Another training avenue for people interested in industrial warehouse construction is to become a licensed general contractor. General contractors manage construction sites and provide a link between site owners and constructors. Individuals can become trained in contracting online through training institutes and provide evidence of training through a license as required by the state in which they live.
Try: Contractor's Institute provides access to online courses and training in becoming a general contractor or developing more advanced knowledge and skills. The Contractor's License Reference Site has information on the license requirements for all types of contractors in each state and how to obtain the licenses necessary.

 

  • Industrial complex construction education and training is not just a straightforward degree or certification program. Becoming trained to manage industrial complex construction often requires that individuals have at least two years of experience working in a construction related industry, so be sure that you have the necessary experience before seeking advanced training.