How to Become a Construction Manager in Wisconsin

Do you want to be a construction manager in Wisconsin?

Read this article to learn more about this occupation!

First, it’s crucial to understand the responsibilities associated with this role.

Also known as project managers or general contractors, these professionals collaborate closely with engineers, construction workers, and government officials.

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Construction Manager Job Description

A construction manager is essential in overseeing construction projects from start to finish.

Their daily responsibilities include:

• Ensuring compliance with onsite specifications
• Recruiting skilled workers for various construction tasks
• Addressing and resolving project delays
• Generating progress reports for clients
• Overseeing the timely delivery of construction materials
• Managing project costs to stay within budget

Construction managers typically possess either an associate degree with extensive experience or a bachelor’s degree.

This role offers specialization in various sectors, including:

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

This flexibility allows construction managers to focus on areas that match their professional interests and expertise.

Becoming a Construction Manager Step by Step

If you aim to become a construction manager, follow these outlined steps.

This guide provides a clear roadmap of the key requirements and actions necessary to reach your goal.

1st Step – Complete Your Education

Certification is vital for those aspiring to become construction managers.

Typically, this role requires a bachelor’s degree for which you need a high school diploma or GED.

However, some project managers secure positions with an associate degree in a related field, particularly if they have substantial work experience.

Graduates from an Associate of Applied Science program can easily transition into a bachelor’s degree program.

In a bachelor’s degree program that lasts for 4 years, you will study topics such as:

• Design
• Engineering
• Materials Management
• Structural Science
• Economics

2nd Step – Become Licensed

Some students with a bachelor’s degree are not looking for additional certifications, but earning them can underscore your commitment to your profession.

Consider pursuing these valuable certifications:

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

Alternative Methods

Sometimes pursuing a bachelor’s degree after an associate degree isn’t the best option for everyone.

In this case, gaining extensive field experience is another effective route.

Additionally, those with only a high school diploma can begin their careers as independent contractors.

Construction Management Programs in Wisconsin

Once you know what you need to do to get licensed, all you have to do is find a training program.

Wisconsin offers several reputable construction management programs.

Let’s explore these options!

University of Wisconsin-Platteville

The program at UW-Platteville’s Department of Applied Engineering and Technology Management equips you to seize tomorrow’s opportunities.

Students majoring in construction management can specialize in construction management or construction safety management, focusing specifically on the construction industry.

As the largest single industry in the United States, the construction sector is experiencing unprecedented growth both nationally and globally.

This school’s construction management courses integrate science and technology into a professional management degree, providing you with the technical and problem-solving skills that companies value.

You will get to attend hands-on learning in our state-of-the-art laboratories.

These include:

• Road and Infrastructure Lab
• Safety Lab
• Construction Lab.

This practical training will prepare you to oversee construction projects and manage risk and safety issues.

Additionally, by taking a few extra courses, you can enhance your degree with a minor in business administration and architecture, broadening your career opportunities.

The program is recognized as a Qualified Academic Program by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals.

The bachelor’s degree in construction management, with an emphasis on construction safety management, is designated as a Graduate Safety Practitioner program.

Graduates will earn the Board of Certified Safety Professionals’ Graduate Safety Professional designation.

Moreover, you will obtain your OSHA 30-Hour certification in Occupational Safety and Health Standards for the Construction Industry and 10 other industry-recognized certifications across the U.S.

Construction Manager Salary in Wisconsin

After finishing your education and training, you will probably be keen to understand the salary you can anticipate.

In Wisconsin, construction managers have the opportunity to earn around $132,280 per year.

However, salaries can differ depending on the location and size of the city where you work.

Typically, larger city areas offer higher wages.

Make sure to check out the table below for additional information.

Regional Salary in Wisconsin

Construction Manager Schools by State