How to Become a Construction Manager in Alaska

Construction managers must oversee most of the aspects of any building project.

These professionals also have these titles:

• Project managers
• General contractors

They must work with engineers, construction workers, and even officials from the government.

If you’re interested in a position like this, read this presentation I put together!

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Construction Manager Job Description

A construction manager (CM) is the mastermind behind the conceptualization, strategizing, financial management, and execution of diverse architectural creations.

Like this, they ensure seamless execution at every juncture.

Some employers may hire construction overseers with an associate degree and pertinent practical background.

However, many favor candidates boasting a minimum of a bachelor’s degree for the role.

A project manager has the flexibility to specialize in various domains of construction projects.

These could range from civil, industrial, commercial, residential, agricultural, or institutional endeavors.

Construction Manager Job Duties in Alaska

While you might have gotten an idea of what you’re supposed to do as a general contractor, several aspects have not been mentioned.

Here are some of the duties you’ll be responsible for as well:

• Overseeing adherence to precise specifications onsite
• Recruiting skilled personnel for building components
• Securing timely delivery of construction materials
• Addressing any delays, no matter the origin
• Producing client reports on completed tasks
• Maintaining project costs within budget limits

Becoming a Construction Manager – Step by Step

The road to becoming a construction manager isn’t that simple.

There are some steps to follow, so let’s see them!

1st Step – Complete Your  Education

You can’t become a CM without a minimum of a bachelor’s degree.

To earn a bachelor’s degree, you first must graduate from high school or have a GED.

Some colleges or universities may have programs just for associate’s degrees, and only after this degree, you can enroll in a bachelor’s program.

This degree lasts for 4 years of the program, and you’ll study:

• Design,
• Structural science,
• Engineering,
• Materials management
• Economics

Alternatives

You may not want to study for 4 years after the associate’s degree.

In this case, you’ll have to accumulate enough relevant work experience.

There’s yet another path for which you only need a high school diploma.

This is for independent contractors.

2nd Step – Become Licensed

Not having a license after getting a Bachelor’s isn’t a must.

But don’t let that hold you back from getting more qualifications.

In construction, a project manager can aim for one or more of these:

• Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
• Certified Professional Constructor (CPC)
• LEED Green Associate
• Certified Safety Manager (CSM)
• Project Management Professional (PMP)

Construction Manager Programs in Alaska

Here are some of the training programs available in Alaska.

University of Alaska Anchorage

Through the construction manager program offered here, you can choose one out of 3 degrees offered:

• Associate of Applied Science in Construction Management
• Bachelor of Science in Construction Management
• AAS in Architectural and Engineering Technology

The American Council for Construction Education (ACCE) accredited the first 2 degrees listed here.

The Associate of Applied Science in Construction Management has 61 credits to accumulate before graduating.

You’ll also need a grade of at least C and hopefully, you took MATH A105 or higher to graduate.

University of Alaska Fairbanks

This university offers an AAS in construction management.

You can attend this program 100% online.

Despite this, you can only enroll for 1 of these semesters:

• Fall,
• Spring
• Summer

If you prefer to study in person, the address of the university is in the table below.

You’ll have access to large classrooms, computer laboratories, and tutors to help you out.

Candidates for this program must be proficient in word and spreadsheet processing and usage.

Northern Industrial Training, LLC

At NIT, you’ll enter an intense training program that will award you the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) diploma.

The course will cover topics such as:

• Interpersonal Skills
• Issues and Resolutions
• Construction Documents
• Construction Planning
• Scheduling
• Resource Control

The duration of the course is 4 weeks long, or 160 hours, and will include homework.

The cost of the program is $5,000 and there are some prerequisites to meet:

• Minimum 18 years old
• Social Security Card
• Driving license valid in Alaska
• Paying additional fees, such as:
  • Drug tests and physicals
  • Transportation,
  • Room and board

Construction Manager Salary in Alaska

Now that you’re well-versed in this field, you’re likely curious about potential earnings.

As a manager, your pay surpasses your team’s but falls short of your superior’s.

For instance, in Alaska, construction managers rake in about $145,474 annually.

However, certain locales offer higher pay, as illustrated in the table below.

Regional Salary in Alaska

Construction Manager Schools by State