How to Become a Construction Manager in Maryland

Construction managers play a pivotal role in supervising the complex elements of construction projects.

They may also be referred to as project managers or general contractors.

Their duties require close coordination with engineers, construction crews, and government agencies.

If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a construction manager in Maryland, keep reading.

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You’ll find valuable information on starting a new and successful career in this field.

Construction Manager Job Description

A construction manager (CM) plays a crucial role in the conceptualization, strategic planning, financial management, and overall execution of a project.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Ensuring strict adherence to onsite specifications
• Hiring skilled workers for diverse construction tasks
• Overseeing the timely delivery of materials
• Addressing and mitigating delays
• Providing clients with progress reports and updates on completed tasks
• Keeping project costs within budget

These responsibilities are vital for the smooth advancement of construction projects.

To qualify for this position, an associate degree with relevant practical experience or a bachelor’s degree is typically required.

Construction managers can specialize in various fields, including civil, industrial, commercial, residential, agricultural, or institutional projects.

Becoming a Construction Manager – Step by Step

You need to take several steps before working as a construction manager.

So, let’s have a look at these steps.

1st Step – Complete Your Education

As previously mentioned, becoming a construction manager typically requires a degree.

Most construction managers have at least a bachelor’s degree, which requires a high school diploma or GED as a prerequisite.

Some project managers are hired with just an associate degree, but they also need relevant field experience.

If you’ve graduated from an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program, you can continue your education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree.

The bachelor’s program spans four years and covers subjects such as:

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

If you prefer not to pursue a four-year degree after earning your associate degree, you can gain experience by working in the field.

With only a high school diploma, another option is to work as an independent contractor.

2nd Step – Become Licensed

While a bachelor’s degree provides you with essential qualifications, pursuing additional certifications can further boost your career prospects.

Here are some certifications worth considering:

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

Construction Manager Programs in Maryland

Now, let’s delve into the construction manager programs available in Maryland.

Anne Arundel Community College

This institution offers various Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degrees and some credit certificates.

For instance, you can enroll in their Construction Management, A.A.S.program.

They are designed to equip you with the skills needed to enter the workforce, so Maryland refers to the A.A.S. as a career degree.

In certain cases, AACC has established transfer agreements with select colleges, allowing these degrees to be transferred.

You can find a list of active agreements on the college’s website and learn more about transferring from AACC to further your education.

These certificates prepare students for employment and can be applied toward the A.A.S. degree if desired:

• Architecture and Interior Design
• Construction Management

These programs teach you about construction materials and methods, estimating, and project management.

You can enter the workforce directly, transfer your credits toward an A.A.S. degree in architecture and interior design, or continue your education at a school offering a bachelor’s degree in building construction or construction management.

AACC’s Construction Management program opens doors to various rewarding careers, such as:

• Construction Manager
• Foreman
• Estimator
• Inspector

You’ll also have the chance to transfer to numerous top four-year institutions in Maryland or other areas.

Construction Manager Salary in Maryland

You might be curious about your potential salary upon completing your education and training.

As a construction manager in Maryland, your earnings will likely exceed those of less experienced peers, though they may not match your supervisor’s salary.

The median annual salary is around $137,726, but your actual earnings will depend on various factors, including your experience and location.

Generally, construction managers in urban areas tend to earn higher salaries than those in rural areas.

For a comprehensive overview of construction manager salaries in Maryland, refer to the table below.

Regional Salary in Maryland

Construction Manager Schools by State