Construction Technology

Construction Technology is another paraprofessional field. Paraprofessionals are trained to help professionals in their job. Workers trained in this field are prepared to assist architects, engineers, contractors, and other professionals in the construction field. They are not "construction workers" in that they do not actually build buildings. They support the building process by helping with planning, management, and inspection. Many workers are attracted to this field because of the opportunity to work outdoors, yet there are also opportunities to work in an office or lab setting.

Educational Choices

You may consider many levels of training in this field, ranging from apprenticing with a construction union, getting an associate degree in construction technology, to getting a bachelor's or master's degree in construction/building science. Employers of building inspectors offer special training to newly-hired employees, which makes it possible to enter this position with a two-year degree. A four-year degree is required for licensed surveyors, who have detailed knowledge of building codes and laws. Many employers in this field, however, value on-the-job experience. There are extensive opportunities for individuals who begin with an associate degree and work their way up through the system.

Education for Construction Technology at TC3

TC3 offers an A.A.S. degree in construction technology. The construction technology curriculum covers a broad range of subjects related to the construction field, including computer-aided drafting, math skills and the use of surveying and laboratory equipment, and prepares you for immediate entry into the field.

Job Titles

• Drafter
• Licensed Surveyor's Assistant
• Laboratory Testing Technician
• Construction Cost Estimator
• Construction Manager
• Building Inspector

Skills and Tasks

• Uses math and technical skills to obtain land survey data, such as angles, elevations, points, and contours, by using electronic distance measuring equipment and other surveying instruments.
• Skilled at reading blueprints and drawings from architects and engineers.
• Uses math skills to estimate materials needed and cost involved in building process, based on reading of blueprints.
• Uses math and technical skills to operate laboratory equipment to test the strength of materials such as concrete.
• Skilled at using inspection equipment such as tape measures, survey instruments, metering devices, and test equipment.
• Draws rough and detailed plans to scale, for foundations, buildings, and structures, according to specifications.
• Uses computer aided design (CAD) and drafting programs.
• Drafts and corrects topographical maps to represent geological stratigraphy, mineral deposits, and pipeline systems, using survey data and aerial photographs.

Employers in this field

• Architectural firm
• Construction company
• Local, State, and Federal Government
• Engineers
• Testing labs
• U.S. Geological Survey

Salary Ranges

• In 1998, the New York state annual salary range for surveyors assistant: $21,930.00 – $35,700.00
• Architectural drafters: $28,100.00 – $47,470.00
• Building inspector and construction managers: $30,810.00 – $49,150.00

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