Construction & Design Technologies
Dean's Message
Greetings from the School of Construction & Design Technologies at Pennsylvania College of Technology! Are you interested in a career that's both professionally and financially satisfying? Look no further - the construction industry offers exciting employment opportunities for professionals in nearly every sector.
Several key factors are fueling huge demand for the next generation of construction professionals. Consider just a few:
- The current labor force is growing older. According to the National Center for Construction Education and Research, the average craft professional is 47 years old. As the "baby boomers" (those born between 1945 and 1964) retire, the demand for qualified construction professionals will continue to increase. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that one million skilled workers will be needed to fill construction jobs by 2012 alone.
- The aging population trend brings with it a need for new construction. Retirement communities, recreational and leisure facilities, hospitals, convalescent homes are just a few examples.
- The construction industry has become increasingly aware of its responsibility to be a good steward of our environmental resources. The "green building" movement has challenged us to carefully reconsider nearly every aspect of the construction process.
- Building Automation and HVAC professionals are needed to design and maintain systems that are energy efficient.
- Professionals are needed who realize the importance of using materials that are recyclable, will last a long time and have a low environmental impact. Materials must be chosen that are energy efficient – both in terms of how they are produced, as well as how they are used. The next generation of construction managers, designers, and skilled professionals must understand these important issues.
- The nation's infrastructure is aging, and in need of repair. New highways and bridges, as well as schools and other public facilities are needed.
Opportunities await – and our graduates are well prepared to seize them!
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for careers related to many of the majors within the School of Construction & Design Technologies is "very good" to "excellent".
Please browse through our website to see the career choices you have in the high-tech world of construction and design. If we can answer any questions directly, e-mail our office at School of Construction & Design Technologies.
– Marc Bridgens
