Skilled Trade Professionals Have the Skills for Volunteering 

Skilled trade professionals have a unique set of skills that can be incredibly valuable when it comes to volunteering in their communities. April is National Volunteer Month, which provides the opportunity to explore the multitude of ways tradespeople can offer a helping hand. By volunteering their time and expertise, these professionals can make a tangible impact in their communities. 

Building and Renovation Projects 

Whether they are electricians, plumbers, carpenters, or HVAC technicians, these individuals possess the technical knowledge and expertise required for building and renovation projects. Many organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity, rely on tradespeople to help build homes for those in need.  

Projects can range from building a new home for a family in need to renovating a community center or other small building. Advanced skills are required to install plumbing or electrical systems, so their expertise is critical for project completion. 

Not only do these projects help improve the physical infrastructure of a community, but they also provide valuable hands-on experience for the trade professionals themselves, sometimes beyond what they might do at work. They can hone their skills, learn new techniques, and collaborate with other volunteers to achieve a common goal. This type of experience can be incredibly rewarding and fulfilling for these individuals, as they see the results of their hard work and dedication come to fruition. 

Disaster Relief Efforts 

In times of natural disasters or emergencies, trade professionals are often called upon to help with recovery efforts. Whether it is repairing damaged homes, restoring power and water services, or providing emergency repairs to essential infrastructure, these individuals play a crucial role in helping communities rebuild and recover. Their technical skills are indispensable in these situations, as they have the knowledge needed to assess damage, develop repair plans, and execute repairs. 

By volunteering their time and skills for disaster relief efforts, skilled trade professionals provide much-needed support and assistance to communities in crisis, helping them get back on their feet and rebuild stronger than before. This type of volunteer work not only benefits those in need but also allows these individuals to use their skills for an important and meaningful cause. 

Providing Services Pro Bono 

Providing services pro bono can be a choice of one individual and does not necessarily include a group or organized effort.  

Skilled tradespeople can give back by offering their services at no charge to individuals or organizations in need. For example, a plumber may be able to repair a leaky faucet for a low-income family, or an electrician could help a nonprofit organization upgrade their wiring system at no cost. These gestures of kindness can make a dramatic difference for those who may not be able to afford these services otherwise. 

By using their skills in new and meaningful ways, they can gain a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction that may not always come from their day-to-day work. Volunteering can also provide opportunities for these individuals to develop new skills, expand their networks, and build lasting relationships with others in their communities. 

Mentoring and Training Programs 

Skilled trade professionals can also mentor aspiring tradespeople. Mentoring programs can take many forms, from formal apprenticeships to informal one-on-one mentoring relationships.  

Mentoring provides a valuable opportunity for experienced professionals to pass down their knowledge and skills to those who are just starting in the field. Through one-on-one guidance and support, mentors can help mentees navigate the challenges and obstacles they may encounter in their career paths. This can be especially helpful for individuals who are new to the industry and may feel overwhelmed by the demands of their chosen trade. 

In addition to mentoring, training programs also play a crucial role in developing aspiring tradespeople’s skills. The hands-on experience and practical training help individuals build confidence in their abilities. Individuals who volunteer to participate in these programs can serve as instructors, sharing their know-how with students who are eager to learn and improve. 

By giving back through mentoring and training programs, skilled trade professionals not only support the next generation of workers but also contribute to the overall growth and success of their communities. These programs help bridge the gap between the experienced and newcomers to the industry, fostering a sense of camaraderie and collaboration that is essential for building strong, vibrant communities. Through their dedication and commitment to mentoring and training, skilled trade professionals can make a lasting impact on the future of their industry.  

Volunteering Benefits Both Parties 

The realm of skilled trades offers an abundance of volunteering opportunities. Whether it’s lending a hand in constructing homes, offering invaluable expertise through pro bono services, or guiding the next generation of tradespeople, the impact reverberates far beyond the workshop or construction site. In offering their time, skills, and mentorship, tradespeople not only build structures but also build lasting connections with their communities.  

Collaborate with Trade Management to bring skilled tradespeople on board for your work project. Get more information now. 

Tradeswomen Trailblazers – How Far They Have Come 

women in construction

In recent decades, a notable shift has occurred in the traditionally male-dominated arena of trades, with a gradual but significant increase in the participation of women. This trend is a testament to the evolving landscape of attitudes, legislation, and educational opportunities surrounding gender equality and workforce diversity.  

According to data from the Women’s Institute of Policy Research, the number of women in trades surged from 240,930 to 353,954 between 2017 and 2022, marking a remarkable 47% increase. However, despite this progress, women still represent a mere 4.3% of the total positions of workers who use tools, underscoring the persisting gender gap in this sector. Moreover, while the construction workforce overall is estimated to include around 9% to 10% women, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, it is important to acknowledge that this percentage varies significantly across specific occupations, roles, and geographical regions within the construction industry.  

For Women’s History Month, let’s delve deeper into the journey of women in trades exploring the challenges they have overcome and the strides they continue to make. 

Tradeswomen Out of Necessity 

Throughout both World War I and World War II, women were essential contributors to the war effort by taking on traditionally male roles to cover for the men fighting on the front lines. 

These pivotal moments in history marked a significant departure from societal norms, as women took on essential roles such as electrical work, welding, engine repair, and other trade-related tasks that were previously deemed not suitable for women. Their contributions not only helped sustain crucial industries during times of conflict but also paved the way for societal shifts in attitudes toward women in the trades. 

Fast forward to today, and women can enter the trades by choice, empowered by the progress made by their predecessors. But breaking into what remains a male-dominated field has not been without its challenges. 

Overcoming Laws and Regulations That Excluded Women from Skilled Trade 

After World War II, and after women had proven they were up to the job, women still faced gender bias, discrimination, and barriers to entry in trade jobs. Legal and social obstacles, including discriminatory practices, limited women’s opportunities in skilled trades. Laws and policies often excluded women from formal training programs and apprenticeships, and unions traditionally prohibited women from membership. 

Despite possessing the talent and ambition to excel in these trade skills, women were routinely denied equal access to employment opportunities solely based on their gender. It was not until the 1960s that the Equal Employment Opportunity Law made it illegal to prohibit access to jobs based on gender. 

Current Trends with Women in Trades 

In recent decades, there has been a growing presence of women in skilled trades. Efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity have led to more women pursuing careers in fields such as plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, and welding.  

It is not uncommon today for small businesses like plumbing companies, electrical services, and HVAC install and repair businesses to be owned and run by women. An increasing number of women are donning hard hats and following in their father’s footsteps onto the construction site.  

In fact, the construction industry has witnessed the remarkable achievements of numerous women who have not only excelled but have also become influential leaders in their respective fields.  

One such example is Patricia Galloway, the first female president of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), whose pioneering work in civil engineering has earned her international acclaim. Similarly, Linda Alvarado, CEO of Alvarado Construction, has made history as one of the few Latina women to own a major construction company in the United States, overseeing multi-million-dollar projects such as sports stadiums and convention centers.  

In addition to individual contributions, the presence of women in construction brings unique perspectives, skills, and experiences to the table, enriching teams and contributing to innovation and problem-solving. By fostering an environment of mutual respect and collaboration, construction companies and organizations can harness the full potential of their workforce and drive positive outcomes for projects and communities alike. 

Tradeswomen – Looking Ahead 

Successful women in construction have been catalysts for positive change, advocating for greater inclusivity and equity within the industry. Through mentorship programs, networking initiatives, and community outreach efforts, they actively work to create pathways for other women to enter and excel in construction careers. Their dedication to fostering supportive and inclusive work environments has helped break down barriers and challenge outdated perceptions.  

Women in Trade with Trade Management: A Personal Profile 

We asked one of our own recruiters about her experience working in the skilled trades sector. Daysha Juergens shared her insights on what it was like to establish her career in recruiting in a male-dominated arena. 

What challenges did you have to overcome, if any, that arose from being a woman in this field? The biggest challenge I have faced being a woman in this field was obtaining the knowledge of this industry needed to recruit. Initially, I started off at a trade school as a career specialist helping the students land jobs when they graduated. I took the time to visit the classrooms and observe/ask questions. Being able to see the students perform their trades really helped me have knowledge to build upon. I took every opportunity to learn more by visiting trade employers who hired our students and asking questions. As a recruiter in construction, I learned the most by speaking with the candidates. The more you interview a certain trade the better you get at asking the right questions to place them correctly.  

What do you consider your greatest accomplishment? My greatest accomplishment would be completing a graduate degree as a first-generation college student. 

How have you seen the industry change over time in regard to women working in the business? While I worked for the trade school, we kept seeing rising amounts of women signing up to learn a trade. I’m seeing more marketing toward high school students going into the trades versus taking the traditional college route, which is exciting.  

Do You Need to Hire Tradespeople? 

Work with Trade Management to hire experienced tradespeople when you need them. Learn more today. 

Mastering Your Craft: Tips for Advancing Your Skills in Your Skilled Trade Area of Expertise

In the world of skilled trades, mastery is the key to success. Whether you are an experienced tradesperson looking to take your career to the next level or someone just starting out on the path to becoming a skilled artisan, the journey to mastery is an ongoing process of learning, refining, and perfecting your craft. In this blog post, we will explore essential tips that can help you advance your skills and achieve true expertise in your skilled trade.

Embrace Lifelong Learning

The first step towards mastering your craft is to adopt a mindset of lifelong learning. Industries evolve, technologies advance, and techniques change. To stay at the forefront of your trade, commit to continuous education.

– Attend workshops, seminars, and trade shows to learn about the latest developments in your field.

– Seek out online courses and certifications that can enhance your skills and keep you competitive in the job market.

Seek Mentorship and Collaboration

One of the most effective ways to accelerate your skill growth is by seeking mentorship from experienced professionals in your field. Mentors can help you grow in a variety of ways by providing valuable insights, sharing their practical knowledge, and guiding you through challenges they have already faced. Additionally, collaborating with colleagues and peers can expose you to new perspectives and techniques that you might not have encountered otherwise. Adopting a culture of sharing knowledge can help you and your peers excel.

Hone Your Problem-Solving Abilities

Mastery in skilled trades often comes down to your ability to solve complex problems efficiently. Challenges will arise, and being able to think critically, analyze situations, and develop creative solutions is crucial. Approach problems with a positive attitude and a willingness to adapt. Over time, you will find that overcoming obstacles becomes second nature which will contribute positively to your reputation as a skilled tradesperson.

Practice, Practice, Practice

The old saying “practice makes perfect” holds true in the world of skilled trades. Regular practice is essential for refining your skills and muscle memory. Set aside time each day to work on your craft, whether it is honing your welding technique, perfecting your woodworking precision, or mastering intricate electrical work. Consistent practice not only improves your skills but also builds confidence in your abilities.

Stay Technologically Savvy

In today’s digital age, technology plays an integral role in nearly every industry and skilled trades are no different. Keep yourself updated with the latest tools, equipment, and software relevant to your trade. Automation and digital tools can enhance your efficiency and precision, giving you an edge in delivering high-quality work. Embrace innovative technologies and invest time in learning how to leverage them effectively.

Attention to Detail

Mastery in skilled trades demands an unwavering commitment to detail. Precision is what sets experts apart from amateurs. Pay meticulous attention to every aspect of your work, from measurements to finishes. Cultivating this attention to detail will not only lead to superior craftsmanship but also earn you a reputation as someone who takes pride in their work.

Embrace Constructive Feedback

Feedback, whether from mentors, peers, or clients, is a valuable resource for improvement. Don’t shy away from constructive criticism; instead, embrace it as an opportunity to refine your skills. Actively seek feedback on your work and use it as a steppingstone for growth. Constructive feedback can guide you towards areas that need improvement, ultimately helping you achieve mastery.

Becoming a master in your skilled trade is a journey that requires dedication, curiosity, and a commitment to excellence. By embracing continuous learning, seeking mentorship, refining problem-solving skills, practicing diligently, staying technologically savvy, honing your attention to detail, and embracing feedback, you can set yourself on a path towards true mastery. Remember, every step you take towards mastering your craft brings you closer to unlocking new opportunities and achieving professional fulfillment.

Are you ready to take your skilled trade career to the next level?

Contact us today to find the perfect position that aligns with your goals and aspirations.

Safety First: Managing Risk and Ensuring Compliance on the Job Site

A pipefitter foreperson supervises pipefitters as they install pipes used for heating, cooling, steam, hot water, lubricating, and processing systems. This installation process involves altering pipe sizes, securing pipes to tanks and walls, and threading and hammering pipes. Pipefitting exposes workers to a range of hazards that can result in injuries and illnesses. It is the pipefitter foreman’s responsibility to reduce risk and maintain compliance in the work environment.

Discover common hazards for pipefitters and how a pipefitter foreperson can manage risk and ensure compliance on the job site.

Equipment Hazards

Pipefitters utilize saws and torches as part of their work to modify the sizes of pipes. This process involves several inherent risks that can lead to various types of injuries. Accidents involving power saws can result in cuts, wounds, nerve damage, and even the amputation of digits or limbs. Sparks emitted from a welding torch can cause burns to the skin and eye injuries. Additionally, the use of machines can potentially lead to cuts, entanglement, eye injuries, crush injuries, and even the severing of limbs. It is crucial for pipefitters to be aware of these hazards and take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety while carrying out their tasks.

A pipefitter foreperson can provide further help managing risk and ensuring safety compliance by taking these actions:

  • Maintain the equipment.
  • Inspect the equipment before use.
  • Ensure that the equipment guards work.
  • Keep the power cords away from the work areas.
  • Ensure pipefitters wear safety glasses, long-sleeve shirts, and coveralls.
  • Avoid having pipefitters use the tools in wet areas.

Exposure To Hazardous Materials

Pipefitters who are involved in working with refrigerants, oxidizers, flammable products, or any other hazardous materials face a heightened risk of injury. There are several potential hazards associated with this type of work, including the following:

  • Fires, which have the potential to cause burns and lead to smoke inhalation.
  • Chemical fumes, which can be harmful to the respiratory tract and cause damage.
  • Splashes from dangerous chemicals, which can result in burns and eye injuries.

To ensure the safety of pipefitters, it is crucial for them to be aware of these risks and take necessary precautions. This includes utilizing proper safety measures, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), following established protocols for handling hazardous materials, and working in a properly ventilated environment. By implementing these actions, a pipefitter foreperson can effectively manage risks and ensure compliance with safety protocols.

Particle Release

When hammering pipes to modify their shape and size, there is a risk of sustaining injuries. One potential hazard is the possibility of metal fragments breaking away from the pipes. These fragments can pose a danger by piercing the skin or entering the eyes.

It is important for individuals involved in this task to exercise caution and utilize appropriate safety measures to minimize the chances of such injuries occurring. A pipefitter foreperson can manage risk and ensure safety compliance by ensuring pipefitters wear the proper clothing and PPE, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, safety goggles with side shields, and safety gloves.

Musculoskeletal Injuries

Carrying heavy loads can significantly increase the risk of injury, affecting various parts of the body. This includes potential harm to soft tissues, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and bones. The strain placed on these body parts due to the weight being carried can lead to sprains, strains, tears, fractures, and other related injuries.

It is crucial to exercise caution while handling heavy loads. A pipefitter foreperson can help manage risk and ensure safety compliance by taking these actions:

  • Educate pipefitters on the importance of assessing every load before lifting it.
  • Remind pipefitters to ask for assistance or utilize mechanical lifting equipment when dealing with heavy loads.
  • Train pipefitters to lift with their leg muscles and keep the load close to their bodies.

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The Importance Of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) On The Job Site

Employees wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize exposure to hazards that can cause workplace injuries or illnesses. Examples of PPE include hard hats, safety glasses, earplugs, respirators, safety gloves, coveralls, vests, and safety shoes. PPE helps prevent injuries or illnesses that may result from contact with physical, chemical, mechanical, electrical, or radiological hazards.

Wear PPE suited to the task one is completing. The PPE should fit comfortably to provide safety and be properly cared for to maintain effectiveness.

Employers must train employees on the proper use and care of PPE, including when PPE must be used, which type to wear, and how to adjust and take it off properly.

Follow these best practices for using PPE on the job site.

Best Practices For Selecting PPE

Choose PPE based on your workplace hazards and the perceived level of risk. For instance, employees who operate large machinery should wear safety gloves to protect their hands.

Make sure the PPE is well-designed and made from quality materials. This helps protect against accidents and injuries.

Ensure the PPE is comfortable for your employees to wear. This includes offering sufficient airflow and avoiding heat stress. Otherwise, the equipment can distract from the work tasks and result in injuries.

The weight of the PPE affects your employees’ range of movement. Heavy PPE poses the risk of work fatigue, which impacts performance and productivity. As a result, lightweight equipment is preferred.

Make sure your employees can easily complete their tasks while wearing the PPE. The equipment should fit well and allow a full range of motion.

Best Practices For Fitting PPE

Order PPE according to the sizes your employees need. Take proper measurements and use the manufacturer’s sizing guide for assistance.

Ensure safety eyewear is comfortable. There should be no pinching on the nose or the side of the head, the lenses must cover the wearer’s eyebrows, and the lenses should not come into contact with the wearer’s eyelashes. Additionally, visibility must be clear in all directions, and the glass should remain in place during regular head movements.

When ordering footwear, consider that people often have different-sized feet, and it is crucial for safety shoes to accommodate the larger foot of an employee. Also, it is essential to measure the arch length of each individual and offer a range of shoe styles for maximum comfort.

Best Practices For Maintaining PPE

To maintain the effectiveness of personal protective equipment (PPE), it is important to utilize and store it correctly. Prior to storing reusable PPE, ensure it is properly cleaned.

Employees may conduct some maintenance, such as replacing shoelaces for their safety shoes. However, maintenance of specialized equipment, such as a harness, may need to be handled by the manufacturer.

Proper cleaning of PPE, especially clothing, helps maintain its effectiveness. This includes regularly cleaning the strips on high-visibility jackets, trousers, and coveralls to keep them reflective.

Employees should report any loss, destruction, or defect in PPE. They also should talk with a supervisor about anyone who is not wearing the required equipment.

Looking To Hire Skilled Tradespeople?

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Tips For Managing Pipefitting Projects

Managing pipefitting projects can be challenging. You must monitor your team as they finish a series of tasks to complete the project on time and within budget.

Adapting to the current work environment ensures you have the knowledge and ability to reevaluate the project and keep it moving forward. These actions increase your odds of success.

Implement these tips for managing pipefitting projects

Plan Below Budget

Set your spending plan so the project can be completed below budget:

  • Maintain funds for price increases.
  • Leave adequate funding to resolve issues that come up.
  • Increase the likelihood of finishing the project within budget.

Practice Time Management

Understand how long each step of the pipefitting project requires. Then, schedule each step with adequate time for completion:

  • Let each pipefitter know which step to work on and when.
  • Include the allotted time to complete each step.
  • Help the pipefitters resolve any issues that come up.
  • Keep the project on schedule as much as possible.

Understand the Pipefitters’ Strengths

Know which tasks the pipefitters excel at and should complete:

  • Understand each pipefitter’s skills and abilities.
  • Assign the tasks according to ability.
  • Have each pipefitter efficiently and effectively contribute in their preferred ways.
  • Increase the odds of completing the project on time and within budget.

Clarify the Pipefitters’ Responsibilities

Ensure each pipefitter understands the tasks they are responsible for and the deadlines for completion. Hold the pipefitters accountable for their actions and results:

  • Setting expectations helps the pipefitters understand their duties.
  • Encourage the pipefitters to ask questions if they need more information.
  • Ensure the pipefitters complete their tasks according to the directions.

Prioritize Communication

Maintain ongoing communication with the project stakeholders:

  • Build relationships with the pipefitters and other stakeholders.
  • Maintain awareness of the risks that may impact the completion of the project on time and within budget.
  • Discuss and resolve issues as they arise.
  • Provide constructive feedback for the pipefitters.

Recognize the Pipefitters’ Accomplishments

Regularly express appreciation for each pipefitter’s contributions.

  • Be specific about what the pipefitter did and how it benefited the project.
  • Point out how well the project is progressing.
  • Share how the day’s activities helped keep the project on schedule.

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How AI Is Transforming Skilled Trades: Opportunities and Challenges

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming skilled trades in beneficial ways. Not only does AI create opportunities, but there are also challenges to overcome for ongoing success.

Understanding how AI is transforming the trades shows why the technology is helpful to the companies that adopt it. Knowing the challenges of implementing AI in the trades provides reasons why more companies do not use it.

Discover how AI is transforming skilled trades, including the opportunities and challenges of using the technology.

Supply Chain

AI is essential for inventory management:

  • Plumbing, janitorial, HVAC, and cleaning companies have invested in cloud-based inventory management systems.
  • The use of cloud-based technology supports efficient inventory analysis.
  • Knowing which parts come from overseas, which materials to source in the U.S., and the ongoing impact of the associated costs helps satisfy customers and bring in revenue.

Speed Of Completion

AI supports communication throughout every step of a work order:

  • Short message service (SMS) is used for pre-job communication.
  • Global positioning system (GPS) technology tracks a technician’s arrival.
  • Skilled tradespeople use video technology to access on-call experts to troubleshoot complex jobs, answer questions, and reduce the number of job site visits.
  • When a work order is complete, the technician can send photos and videos of the work for the owners or managers to view the results without being onsite.
  • Onsite tradespeople can accept payments through their phones.

Recruitment

AI helps with hiring tradespeople:

  • Social media influencers highlight opportunities to make a great living in skilled trades because of the low barrier to entry and affordable training.
  • Tile experts highlight their skills on Instagram.
  • Construction contractors promote their talents on TikTok.
  • Expert carpenters demonstrate their abilities on YouTube.
  • Television shows highlight how to flip homes that require new plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems.
  • Online reviews, organic search results, and paid digital advertising drive customer acquisitions.

Cost

Purchasing and implementing AI technology is expensive:

  • Robots for the construction industry can cost millions of dollars.
  • Software with machine learning and automation features can be prohibitively expensive.

Implementation  

The construction industry has been slow to implement AI:

  • Unless technology has a proven history of success, it is not likely to be widely used for risky, expensive projects.
  • The uniqueness of each project and site means the data collected from one project is unlikely to benefit another project.
  • A lack of explanations for predictions and decisions does not build trust with project stakeholders.
  • AI engineers with construction experience are difficult to find.

Cybersecurity

AI-powered systems are vulnerable to cyberattacks:

  • High project costs make contractors and project owners a target for phishing scams.
  • Hackers can manipulate project data for their benefit.
  • Data mistakes can result in expensive or dangerous project errors.
  • Project errors can impact the health and life of the construction workers and building occupants.

Do You Need To Hire Tradespeople?

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Top Skills For Welders To Learn And Include On Their Resumes

Working as a welder requires a range of skills which can be acquired through apprenticeships, training courses, or on-the-job experience.

Highlighting the most important welder skills on their resumes helps welders land interviews for the roles they want. The skills to include depend on the job description for the desired position.

Listing the relevant skills helps a resume pass through an applicant tracking system (ATS) and to a hiring manager. Hiring managers will be more inclined to contact a candidate for an interview based on a resume that lists qualification details.

Discover six of the top skills for welders to learn and include on their resumes.

Mathematics

Understanding blueprints, calculating dimensions, and drawing sketches requires extensive mathematical skills. Related skills include spatial reasoning, understanding 2D and 3D diagrams, and interpreting sketches.

Physical Capabilities

Carrying heavy objects, standing for extended periods, and bending and twisting are part of a welder’s job duties. Thus, being in good physical condition is a necessity. A welder must have a strong grip and steady hand to hold the torch for an ongoing time. Good vision, hand-eye coordination, and dexterity are also essential.

Precision

Working on structures such as bridges, airplanes, and ships requires precision, including constantly inspecting materials, detecting changes in molten metal flows, and cutting with accuracy. Welders must respect safety guidelines and procedures, follow directions, and maintain a clean workspace.

Tool Handling

A welder’s ability to determine and use the right tool for a task is essential. Welders may need to

learn innovative technologies and practices, including operating robotic welding equipment. A welder may also need to set up machine tools, work with grinders and metal finishers, and dismantle machine tools when finished.

Soft Skills

Self-motivation, time management, and communication are among the soft skills required to work as a welder. Planning and managing projects, organizing workspaces, and documenting the work require soft skills. The same is true for effectively maintaining inventory, working individually and collaboratively, and meeting deadlines.

Mechanical, Design, and Office Skills

When working as a welder, mechanical and design skills are necessary. The ability to use basic office software, manage projects, and provide customer service also is beneficial.

Ready To Find Your Next Welder Role?

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Project Delays? Here Are 5 Tips To Effectively Manage Them!

Construction project delays can result in missed deadlines and overextended budgets. Increasing the time and money required to complete projects reduces revenue and the bottom line.

Project delays may occur for several reasons. Team members with limited experience may need more time to finish tasks. Customers might alter the project plans or withhold funding due to dissatisfaction with the project’s progress. Third parties who do not understand the details of the project plans, goals, or milestones may cause delays. Unforeseen circumstances can extend the time needed to finish a project.

As a project manager, understanding common causes of project delays helps you effectively manage them.

Implement These Five Tips to Effectively Manage Construction Project Delays

1.    Thoroughly Plan The Project

Proper planning is your strongest defense against project delays. Having a well-developed plan decreases the uncertainty and risks involved in project completion.

Use a project management system to create and manage tasks and deadlines, visualize the steps and details, and track progress. By using a project management system, you can proactively solve problems and effectively manage project delays.

2.    Gather Accurate Project Data

Collect comprehensive estimates of timing and task duration. Use this data to prepare your initial project schedule.

Ask questions to evaluate the accuracy and relevance of the data. Determine whether current issues and challenges may need to be addressed when creating your project schedule.

3.    Set Realistic Deadlines

Use data from similar projects and previous experience to set appropriate deadlines. Having realistic deadlines encourages your team to create quality work in the given timeframe, minimizing project delays.

4.    Clarify Task Dependencies

Determine how the project tasks and milestones are connected. If a delay with one task occurs, you can change the schedule and have your team work on another task. When the issue is resolved, you can modify the schedule to complete the original task. Shifting tasks in the event of a delay reduces the impact of the delay on the project as a whole.

5.    Regularly Meet With Your Team

Meet with your team to set goals, milestones, and timelines for the project. Ensure each member understands their role in the project’s execution. Address questions and concerns.

Continue meeting regularly to discuss progress, answer questions, and resolve issues. This helps effectively manage project delays.

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Is Trade School Right For You?

Are you interested in limiting the time and money needed to earn a professional certificate, license, or degree? Have you thought about learning a skilled trade to build a well-paying, long-term career? If so, trade school may be right for you.

Trade school provides specialized training for specific career paths. You might become a plumber, electrician, construction manager, or heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) technician. This type of training often requires less time and money than attending a four-year college.

Earning a certificate, license, or degree from a trade school can help you create the career and lifestyle you want. Completing a relevant apprenticeship or vocational program and starting your first job can provide a foundation for long-term success.

Consider the following information to determine whether trade school is right for you.

Admission Process

Trade schools have a straightforward admission process. You must show you earned a high school diploma or GED, sign up for the appropriate program, and provide payment. Unlike four-year colleges, trade school admission does not entail competition with other potential students for acceptance.

Affordability

Trade school tends to be much less expensive than a four-year college. The average cost of a four-year college is at least $100,000 more than a trade program.

Time Investment

On average, full-time students can complete a Trade School program in 2 years or less, allowing them to enter the workforce sooner.

Job Security

Because trade schools are tailored to specific professions, they have excellent career placement programs and ties to local companies in the industry. Performing well in your program and securing a certificate, license, or diploma will help you land a job. This sets the foundation for long-term career growth.

Tips To Select A Trade School

  1. Look for a program in an in-demand field. You want to establish a career with numerous job openings and long-term growth potential. Reviewing the Occupational Outlook Handbook from the Bureau of Labor Statistics can help.
  2. Determine the complete program cost. Plan how you will pay for it.
  3. Look for online courses. This is especially important if you have a busy schedule or limited local options.
  4. Consider the program’s job placement opportunities, including whether local businesses typically hire from the program and what the placement rates are.
  5. Talk with the program’s career experts or previous graduates to see whether the process meets your expectations. Proceed accordingly.

Ready To Land Your First Job?

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