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Construction Management Career Interview
Ryan Nellis has worked in construction management for 10 years, and he is currently the project engineer managing the construction of the Mark Jefferson Science Building at Eastern Michigan University.
Construction Management Career Path
Ryan’s interest in construction developed at an early age.
“Growing up, I was always around construction projects,” he explains. “My dad typically had a yearly project around the house. During summers in high schools, I worked as a laborer, and during college, I worked on a residential rough carpentry crew.”
“After working in the industry, I became interested in the management aspects of construction.”
Construction Management Experiences
Midway through his pursuit of his Bachelor’s of Science in construction management, Ryan began his professional experience.
“I was hired by an industrial general contractor that specialized in concrete and structural steel projects,” he says. “The contractor’s industrial client base exposed me to multiple industrial construction projects. I was involved in the construction of a new power plant and maintenance and capital projects for multiple automotive manufacturers, steel mills and petroleum refining facilities.”
“Currently,” Ryan continues, “I am working for a construction manager responsible for a $90 million addition and renovation of an existing university science center in the Detroit Metropolitan area.”
Construction Management Degree Programs
Someone working in construction management typically needs a bachelor’s degree in construction management or an engineering degree.
Construction Management Job Description
As a project engineer for his current project, Ryan’s responsibilities include procuring materials and equipment, managing subcontractors, equipment start-up, and commissioning mechanical, electrical and piping systems.
Construction Management Daily Routine
“A normal day will consist of visiting project sites, conducting and/or attending meetings, and pursuing future business opportunities,” Ryan explains. “A large portion of the day will also include solving problems and pre-planning for short and long-term activities.”
Ryan has worked as both a construction project engineer and project manager, and the daily duties vary for each career.
“Project managers assist in scheduling, material submittal approval and procurement, quality control, and writing requests for information to the project architect or engineer,” Ryan explains.
“The project manager’s job is to manage the project costs and contracts, prepare quarterly estimates and projections, and update the owner on the project schedule, progress, and budget,” he continues.
Construction Management: Steps to Success
In addition to construction knowledge and skills, a successful construction management professional also needs to be well-versed in the business aspect of it.
“To succeed, you need to pre-plan your projects well and understand the client’s needs and expectations,” says Ryan. “Good communication, problem-solving, and organizations skills are essential to being successful in construction management.”
Construction Management Job Opportunities
“As with many jobs today, the economy is a driving factor for hiring,” Ryan explains. “When looking for a job, be open to different construction disciplines (i.e. civil, electrical, mechanical, and specialty) and geographic areas.”
Construction Management Career Favorite Aspect
Ryan enjoys the variety involved in the industry.
“Every day is different and every new project presents a new set of challenges,” says Ryan.
Construction Management Professional’s Future Ambitions
Ryan hopes to continue in his construction management career, gaining more experience and becoming more successful.
Advice for Prospective Construction Management Professionals
Experience is vital in this industry, and Ryan recommends building it as early as you can.
“While in school and early in your career, spend as much time in the field as possible and lean on experienced superintendents and project managers for valuable knowledge,” Ryan advises.
“The construction industry is a small network, and your reputation with clients and peers can carry you a long way,” he adds.
