Читать книгу Construction Management JumpStart - Barbara J. Jackson - Страница 156

The Bureau of Labor Statistics presents the following character synopsis in its Occupational Outlook Handbook when describing the necessary attributes of the construction manager:

Construction managers should be flexible and work effectively in a fast-paced environment. They should be decisive and work well under pressure, particularly when faced with unexpected occurrences or delays. The ability to coordinate several major activities at once, while analyzing and resolving specific problems, is essential, as is an understanding of engineering, architectural, and other construction drawings. Good oral and written communication skills also are important, as are leadership skills. Managers must be able to establish a good working relationship with many different people, including owners, other managers, designers, supervisors, and craft workers.

Although this profile pretty much hits the nail on the head, so to speak, I would have to add a few more attributes to the list. I have found most construction managers to have a strong work ethic and an enthusiastic and highly motivated nature. They are tenacious and very results oriented. And, above all else, they are noted for being risk takers.

It is also very important for the construction manager to actually know something about building. It is much easier to manage a process when you have an appreciation for what it actually takes to get the work done, and believe me, you will have a greater appreciation for it after you dig a couple of ditches and manhandle some 90-pound sacks of mortar all day long. The best way to get this experience is simply to go out there and do the job.

Most companies look for individuals with both industry work experience and formal training or education in construction management. Therefore, it is not uncommon for construction management programs to require (or highly recommend) summer jobs and internships in the field for exactly this reason. I grew up in a family of carpenters and electricians, so I was lucky enough to be exposed to the building side of construction very early on. Even if you have never been on a construction site before, it is very important to get this experience and not be intimidated by the environment.