Construction managers are responsible for planning, managing, organizing, and budgeting construction projects. Sometimes, construction managers are also referred to as project managers, constructors, construction superintendents, project engineers, construction supervisors, or general contractors. These projects can include residential construction, commercial construction, and also infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, water treatment systems, schools, and more. Construction managers need huge variety skills as they manage such a vast variety of activities during any construction project. They often need accounting skills, human resources skills for hiring and dealing with employees, management of specialty contractors like plumbers or electricians, and scheduling skills like heavy equipment.
Over 60 percent of construction managers are self-employed. The best positions in construction management generally go to those with a bachelor's degree (4 years of study) in fields like construction management, building science, or civil engineering. Some colleges are also offering an associate's degree (2 years of study) in construction management. Also, real world experience in the construction industry is also critical when seeking a job in construction management.

Job Outlook for Construction and Repair Leadership and Management
It's not surprise that the recent economic recession has deeply impacted the construction industry and construction and repair leadership and management as a career. However, construction management as a whole still has a positive employment outlook. It is expected that in certain areas of the nation construction management could see up to a 17 percent increase in job growth, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, this is spotty growth and won't be the case in some states deeply impacted the recession. The positive growth will be in areas where the population is growing. Growth will also be created in construction management as huge new infrastructure updates are done to roads, bridges, sewer pipes, tunnels, and water systems all over the United States.
Strong Wage Potential in Construction and Repair Leadership and Management
The construction management field offers some excellent salary potential. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, construction managers in 2008 had average wages of around $79,000 annually. Their salaries varied greatly by location, employer, and type of construction project being done. The industries employing the most construction managers were building equipment contractors, non-residential building construction, and other specialty trade contractors.
Colleges are Offering Excellent Construction and Repair Leadership and Management Degree Programs
Colleges currently have some great degrees programs in construction and repair leadership and management. These programs include a bachelor's degree (4 years of study) and an associate's degree (2 years of study).
If you are interested in earning a degree in Construction Management, click here to request more information.