How to Become a Construction Project Manager

How to Become a Construction Project Manager

If you’re eyeing a career in construction project management, you may be wondering how to get started. There are several different routes to becoming a construction project manager, according to the UK’s Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). While some climb the ladder through the vocational route, undertaking apprenticeships in the field and learning about construction on the job, others seek educational opportunities such as certifications to advance into the role.

A few of the organizations that provide more information on and certifications in construction project management are:

• Construction Management Association of America (CMAA)
• American Institute of Contractors (AIC)
• Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB)

The CMAA offers the Certified Construction Manager degree through its Construction Manager Certification Institute (CMCI). The degree is accredited by the American National Standards Institute. CMCI also offers the Construction Manager-in-Training (CMIT) degree, which is for aspiring CM professionals.

The AIC offers the Construction Certification Program with two levels: the Associate Constructor (AC) and the Certified Professional Constructor (CPC). The AC is ideal for recent graduates of four-year construction management programs or those transitioning into the field from other industries. The CPC is for established contractors or those with several years of project oversight experience.

Internationally, the CIOB and CITB both provide information and leads on apprenticeships and educational opportunities. If you’re interested in becoming a construction project manager, you may also want to consider the more generalized project management certifications provided by reputable industry organizations. These degrees include:

• Project Management Professional (PMP) and Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), both offered by the Project Management Institute, one of the leading organizations in the project management field
• Certified Project Management Practitioner (CPMP)
• Associate in Project Management
• Master Project Manager (MPM)
• Professional in Project Management (PPM)
• Certified Project Director

Further reading:

• 5 Reasons Why Managers Need to Learn Project Management Basics
• 5 Tactics to Ensure Others Don't Screw Up Your Deadlines
• Getting a Master's Degree in Project Management: To Do or Not to Do
• 5 Ways to Keep Leadership Involved Without Slowing Your Process
• 9 Ways to Develop Your Leadership Skills