Here in Wisconsin the seasons are Winter and Construction, Construction, Construction. At the Center on Education and Work, we highlight occupations that involve architecture, building and construction. Whether they are designing or building, architects or electricians, people in these occupations help to create beautiful and practical works of art, the buildings we dwell in and the roads we travel on.
- Architects design homes, schools, churches, office buildings, apartment complexes, and shopping centers. Architects meet with their clients to determine the function and size of the building they want designed. They often work with engineers, city planners, and landscape architects to create safe, functional, and attractive structures. They design the structures and estimate the construction costs. They may also recommend contractors to actually build the structures.
- Building Contractors build homes, commercial buildings, and other structures by a specified date for a predetermined cost. They usually hire subcontractors such as plumbers, bricklayers, and electricians to perform specialized construction tasks. Building contractors estimate the cost of labor and materials to complete construction projects based on the blueprints of the proposed structures. They determine the materials needed and purchase them once they are awarded contracts.
- Electricians install and maintain electrical systems in residential, commercial, industrial, and public buildings. Their work responsibilities range from installing conduit in the structural walls of high rise buildings to installing outlets and lighting fixtures in new home construction or remodeling projects. This is a Hot Occupation. Over the next 10 years, job openings in this occupation are projected to increase by at least 20%.
- Sheet metal duct installers place heating and air ducts in homes, commercial buildings, and factories. They read blueprints, measure fittings, and install the ducts using hand, welding, and power tools. They check for air leaks that would allow heat or cool air to escape. They correct or replace parts that have leaks.
- Construction workers do many jobs on building, repairing, or wrecking projects. They also work on construction crews that build roads, bridges, buildings, dams, and sewers. They load and unload trucks, moving materials between work areas. They sort and stack lumber and other construction materials. Construction workers clean tools and machines. They remove rubble from work areas.