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This board is a gold mine of information, and I thought you guys might be able to give me some advice.
I’m currently a project manager for a technology company, and worked for over ten years as a management consultant for Ernst & Young, which meant, basically, I figured out what seemed impossible, did what nobody else could or would, and was responsible for estimating and delivering big, complex projects on time and on budget under very difficult conditions. I started out as a computer programmer after college.
I grew up in a blue collar family with their own business, and learned how to fix and build things from the time I could walk. I currently own rental property on the side, which I manage and maintain myself. The last few years I’ve been bored with office work and have been spending more and more time on fixing my old house and my property, and just reading about design and construction in general. Friends, neighbors, and co-workers consider me an expert on anything related to buildings (for what it’s worth).
My question: Where to start in the industry? I’m single, I’ve saved up my money, and don’t need to earn a whole lot, but don’t want to starve either. I’m thinking I should I try for a job with one of those large design/build firms, then once I’m in, I can learn the business and focus on a specific area. I don’t have a particular problem with learning a trade like carpentry, although I’m thinking I should leverage the skills I have (budgeting, estimating, management, planning, computer) to get in first. I’m also 38 years old, and although I’m in top physical condition, I know that eventually my body may let me down.
I have a special interest in historic restoration, and would lean towards residential work. I want to participate in building quality, long-lasting stuff, with some degree of craftsmanship.
Sorry for the long message, what do you guys think?
Replies
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This board is a gold mine of information, and I thought you guys might be able to give me some advice.
Im currently a project manager for a technology company, and worked for over ten years as a management consultant for Ernst & Young, which meant, basically, I figured out what seemed impossible, did what nobody else could or would, and was responsible for estimating and delivering big, complex projects on time and on budget under very difficult conditions. I started out as a computer programmer after college.
I grew up in a blue collar family with their own business, and learned how to fix and build things from the time I could walk. I currently own rental property on the side, which I manage and maintain myself. The last few years Ive been bored with office work and have been spending more and more time on fixing my old house and my property, and just reading about design and construction in general. Friends, neighbors, and co-workers consider me an expert on anything related to buildings (for what its worth).
My question: Where to start in the industry? Im single, Ive saved up my money, and dont need to earn a whole lot, but dont want to starve either. Im thinking I should I try for a job with one of those large design/build firms, then once Im in, I can learn the business and focus on a specific area. I dont have a particular problem with learning a trade like carpentry, although Im thinking I should leverage the skills I have (budgeting, estimating, management, planning, computer) to get in first. Im also 38 years old, and although Im in top physical condition, I know that eventually my body may let me down.
I have a special interest in historic restoration, and would lean towards residential work. I want to participate in building quality, long-lasting stuff, with some degree of craftsmanship.
Sorry for the long message, what do you guys think?