Hi,
I am a 22 year old student at Drexel University majoring in Construction Management and minoring in Architecture. I am coming into my last 2 years here and I am having a tough time making the decision between residential and commercial construction for my career.
I really have a passion for custom/luxury home building and residential construction. I would much rather build a house than a skyscraper.
My problem is that Drexel makes it seem like commercial construction is the only way to make serious money or have any job security.
I understand this is a broad question, and it can have a ton of answers but if you could tell me what you would do if you were in my shoes I would greatly appreciate it.
Thanks!
Replies
Tough question to answer with any certain degree of accuracy.
I was finishing my fourth yr of college and a friend wanted to open a head shop. I had a saw, he asked me to help. 41 yrs later I reflect on my life in the trades. Was it worth it? Am I satisfied with all I've done as a carpenter? Am I a success in life?
Not rich or well off by any means, but don't owe a nickel to anyone. Earlier on, a good education in business would have certainly helped in that regard. During this past recession I stayed busy because of my reputation. Serious money? Job security? Certainly not guaranteed in this profession (nor most any other as far as I've seen)
The few architects I've known over the years-most in local or statewide operations-seem to work commercial but still retain a certain amount time in residential. Whether they practice it in their employers building or moonlight-everyone still delves into housing design.
The construction managers I've met in commercial-the young graduates were merely assistants to the seasoned, trained in the trades superintendent. Most had little hands on experience and were pretty much in the way on site. There was a rare few that would progress in that profession.
Residential mgrs? Not many here in NW Ohio-those that fill that job description are really lead carpenters that can run a job. Large developers of those upscale housing neighborhoods might have a "guy" that can check up on subs.
Have you interned yet? Your answer may be found there among the owners and employees.
Best of luck.
My 45+ years in construction and code enforcement lead me to agree with Calvin's assessment: construction managers in residential are almost always good, experienced lead carpenters who've had years "in the trenches."
The exception might be those few who manage multiple crews for large-volume homebuilders, but that kind of work would be nothing like the type you say you really care about--custom and luxury homes.
Commercial CM would no doubt offer more opportunity for actually using your education, so now's the time to decide, as you say.
It may not be to late to switch to engineering?
Easy to design houses on the side.