It is possible without, but easier with a degree. Keep in mind that there are fewer positions as you go up the ladder, so standing out is important. Someone with your experience is invaluable, but there are a lot of skills needed as a Super that you won’t necessarily be offered as a Foreman. It’s kind of on you to figure that out.
I’m leaning towards going for the degree. I get college credits towards it from my apprenticeship, and I’m reading that some programs even offer credits depending on your experience. Also maybe try to find a job as a carpenter for a General contractor?
I worked as a PM and Sr. PM for very large GC’s (PCL, Skanska & Turner) without a degree for about 20 years. (I am a consultant now.) I have worked construction most of my life. I started in the field and then I went to school for a while after a 4 year stint in the Army. It was just impossible for me to complete school at the time for several reasons. I got offered an APM role for a Mechanical company while still in school and quit and took the job. Not having a degree definitely hurt me with promotions at a certain point. So I think you are heading in the right direction.
Look for community college degrees. I have an A.A.S. In construction management from a non accredited school. There are a few big GCs that will only hire 4 year degrees for supers, but you can definitely get hired on with very good GCs with an associates and experience.
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u/RangerWinnie375 Apr 19 '20
It is possible without, but easier with a degree. Keep in mind that there are fewer positions as you go up the ladder, so standing out is important. Someone with your experience is invaluable, but there are a lot of skills needed as a Super that you won’t necessarily be offered as a Foreman. It’s kind of on you to figure that out.