How to Become a Construction Manager in Colorado

Construction managers oversee almost every aspect of a building project.

They are also referred to as:

• Project managers
• General contractors

They work closely with engineers, construction workers, and government officials.

If you’re interested in this career, take a look at the article below.

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Construction Manager Job Description

A construction manager (CM) is the central figure responsible for planning, budgeting, and overseeing building projects.

They ensure that everything operates smoothly from beginning to end.

While some companies may hire construction managers with an associate degree and relevant experience, many prefer candidates with at least a bachelor’s degree.

A project manager can specialize in various types of construction projects, including:

• Civil,
• Industrial,
• Commercial,
• Residential,
• Agricultural,
• Institutional projects.

Construction Manager Job Duties in Colorado

While you might have an idea of what a general contractor does, there are some additional duties you should know about:

• Working onsite to make sure everything is built exactly to the plans
• Hiring workers for smaller specialized parts of the project
• Ensuring construction materials are delivered on time
• Managing any delays, no matter the cause
• Writing progress reports for clients
• Keeping the project within the budget

Becoming a Construction Manager – Step by Step

Becoming a construction manager is no simple task.

You’ll need to follow several steps before you can begin your career.

1st Step – Complete Your Education

As mentioned earlier, this job requires more education compared to many others.

You’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree, which typically takes about four years to complete.

During this program, you will learn about:

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

Alternatively, you can earn an associate degree and gain relevant experience.

If you aim to work as an independent contractor, a high school diploma is usually sufficient.

2nd Step – Become Licensed

A Bachelor’s degree typically suffices, but obtaining additional certifications can boost your credentials.

Consider earning a license to further enhance your qualifications.

In this industry, you can pursue titles such as:

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

Construction Manager Training Programs in Colorado

Now, let’s explore the construction manager training programs available in Colorado.

MSU Denver

MSU Denver has a new program called Bachelor of Arts degree in Construction Project Management.

Once accepted into this program, you’ll delve into:

• Civil engineering technology
• Management
• Advanced manufacturing science
• Computer information systems,
• Technical communication.

You can specialize your degree in either Computer Information Systems or Management.

The general courses are tailored to enhance your skills for a successful career in Construction Project Management.

For example, the six required credit hours in the arts and humanities are fulfilled by taking philosophy courses in:

• Business ethics
• Computers
• Ethics,
• Society.

This Major supports a workforce initiative for the construction industry.

However, you’ll also need a Minor.

Minors cannot include the following prefixes:

• ACC,
• CIS,
• FIN,
• MKT,
• MGT.

It’s recommended to consult with an advisor when selecting your minor.

Suggested minors include:

• Architecture
• Industrial Design
• Mechanical Engineering Technology
• Computer Science
• Environmental Studies
• Leadership Studies
• Spanish.

Students who completed a U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship 4-year Registered Construction Trades Apprenticeship and have journeyman’s credentials will receive a block of 30 lower-division semester credits.

These can be used instead of the required minor.

These apprenticeship credits apply only to the CPM major and cannot be used for any other purpose at the Metropolitan State University of Denver.

Colorado State University-Pueblo

The school’s Construction Management Program covers topics like:

• Project planning and scheduling
• Cost estimation
• Construction law and ethics
• Safety management
• Sustainable building practices.

The program concentrates on hands-on learning.

It offers experience through internships, field trips, and project-based assignments.

The program offers expertise in Vertical Construction, Horizontal Construction, and Sustainability.

As a student, you can also get a minor in construction.

Construction Manager Salary in Colorado

Now that you’re well-informed about the role of a construction manager, you might be wondering about the salary.

As a manager, you’ll earn more than your team members but less than your higher-ups.

In Colorado, construction managers earn approximately $136,257 per year.

In some regions, salaries can be higher, as shown in the table below.

Regional Salary in Colorado

Construction Manager Schools by State