College - Author 1
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Department - Author 1
Construction Management Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Construction Management
Date
12-2019
Primary Advisor/Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Stacy Kolegraff, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Construction Management Department
Abstract/Summary
A construction management degree and an apprenticeship are the two educational routes for a career in the construction industry. There are divisions within the workforce that reflect these educational pathways. Ideally, an alternative education would allow individuals without access to a university education to develop their career from an entry level position. However, if education has a long-term career impact, then limiting factors on education are consequently limiting on career growth. In examining if there is a ceiling on career growth relative to educational backgrounds, both education and experience were identified as key variables. In the case study presented, the education and experience requirements for open positions at a representative construction company were compared. Additionally, the average salary for each position was analyzed. The findings indicated that these variables are correlated, as positions without a degree qualification required twice much as experience to compensate for education. There did not appear to be a ceiling for individuals without a degree. However, the rate of career growth is arguably affected by the amount of experience required to substitute a degree. Further research must be done to determine the differences in rates of career growth for individuals within these two educational categories.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cmsp/293
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