Page 36 - Skills - 2024

CHOOSING A CAREER
Industry Outlook: Construction
BY CLOEY CALLAHAN
Construction trades offer good pay and the satisfaction of a job well done.
Recent projects completed by Yonkers- based ECCO III Enterprises, Inc. include the Ravensdale Road Bridge replacement in Westchester (this page) and the replacement of the Bronx River Parkway Bridge over the Metro- North Railroad in New York City (opposite page).
From the tangible satisfaction of witnessing physical creations rise from the ground to the diverse range of roles that cater to various skill sets, the construction sector
continues to attract individuals who are looking for a promising career that usually doesn’t require a college degree.
George Drapeau has been in the construction business since 1984 and
today works for the professional trade organization Construction Industry Council of Westchester and the Hudson Valley, which represents more than 600 businesses.
“We’re looking at challenges with getting a workforce that can do the work that is before us, going forward into 2030 and so on,” says Drapeau. “We have enormous opportunities.”
That’s thanks in part to federal bills like the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,
a trillion-dollar investment that includes funding for water infrastructure, roadways and bridges, and much more.
“We’re moving into a new era where a lot of things have to be upgraded and improved, if not replaced,” says Drapeau. That’ll get done with the help of 18 different building trades, which include everything from professions like laborers, operating engineers, excavators, and pavers to craft trades like carpenters, steamfitters, electricians, ironmakers, glazers, among others.
Those who join the construction industry can generally expect good pay, though of course the exact rate depends on the trade. For example, an ironworker or operating engineer receives higher pay than painters and laborers. Drapeau says “good plumbing contractors and tradesmen can earn more than surgeons.”
34 2024 SKILLS
What’s Hot. What’s Next. What’s Needed.
© ECCO III Enterprises