The career of a builder is something many aspire to become. Evidence points to the scope with which being a builder provides, as there are many roles and opportunities that can be found in the construction industry. But with so many possibilites, it can be difficult to know where to begin, or which steps are necessary to ensure staying on the right track. For instance, education plays a significant part in obtaining a builder’s license. It forms the backbone of knowledge required to be competent in construction roles. There are numerous courses that are available which provide learning objectives related to construction, and the question is, which of those courses are absolutely necessary to become a builder?
Before courses are considered, it is imperative that you obtain a construction induction card, also known as a white card. This is a requirement for beginning courses in construction, and allows you access to construction sites. It is relatively easy to get, and the course lasts 1 day.
The most important course that many consider to be the catalyst for becoming a builder is the Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building). This course is the fourth out of ten levels of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), which defines the quality for educational qualifications in Australia. A Certificate IV is considered the barometer for entering the construction industry, as it provides most of the necessary information required. It generally lasts for 34 weeks, and comprises 16 units, of which 13 are core to the course and the other 3 are elective. Topics covered include:
- Applying building codes and standards to construction processes
- Managing occupational health and safety (OH&S)
- Conducting on-site supervision of projects
Ultimately, what this course aims to do is prepare you significantly for entering the construction workforce, through providing you with skills in the planning of projects, managing resources etc. Roles commonly sought after and filled upon completion of this course include contract administrators, estimators, site supervisors etc.
Despite the Certificate IV being the most useful starting point, completing this course alone is not enough for advancement. Higher education is considered by many, and this is where the Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) comes in. The Diploma is one level above the Certificate IV, and represents a considerable increase in breadth of content. It lasts for 50 weeks, and students will need to reserve a minimum of 2 hours per week of self-directed research, supplementing classes which will be supervised by a Trainer. It also has 18 units, with 13 core and 5 elective. Content covered includes:
- Controlling project quality and risk
- Applying building codes and standards to construction processes
- Applying site surveys and set out procedures
Since this is an advanced course, it is aimed at tradespeople and other employed people in the construction industry who are looking to advance their skills in management and development of residential/low-rise construction. Roles considered include Site Managers, Project Managers or Building Associates.
Whether you choose to complete one of these courses or both, you can be sure that they will provide you with the fundamental tools to become a builder, and have a successful career in construction.
Parker Brent offers both the Certificate IV and Diploma of Building and Construction (Building). For more info, head to www.parkerbrent.com.au to get with us started today.
