Following the career wheel hierarchy, architecture and construction is a career cluster within the engineering, manufacturing, and technology career field. In Central Minnesota more than 16,000 jobs exist in the construction and architecture career cluster, with most jobs in the construction pathway (Figure 1).

High demand and not enough workers in this specialized segment of the economy is fueling both record numbers of openings and pushing wages higher. For more information and videos on what these jobs are all about, check out DEED’s new career wheel tool.

Construction and architecture offer plenty of opportunities for advancement. Entry-level occupations that require a high school diploma or GED can make an excellent launch point to gain experience and secure higher paying positions in the future. Besides using experience to move up the career ladder, numerous college programs are also available to prepare students for specific occupations, a few of which require higher education (Figure 2).

Without revolving debt or a highly leveraged start in life, a single adult in central Minnesotans needs roughly $15 per hour to live an independent, safe and healthy lifestyle. All but one occupation in the construction and architecture career cluster have typical starting wages above that threshold. The one occupation that might start at less than $15 per hour, installation and maintenance repair helpers, still pays an hourly rate above $22.47 for a quarter of all jobs.

Occupations like these are excellent places for workers lacking experience or facing barriers to gain skills and move up the wage scale. It’s not uncommon to work in the construction and architecture cluster starting out close to $20 per hour, and with skills and experience find wages approaching $40 or more per hour.

For More Information

Contact Luke Greiner at 320-308-5378.