The Two Types of Continuing Education That Matter Most in California’s Construction Industry

If you have clicked through our site a few times, then you probably already know that we are big fans of continuing education – that is the learning you do after you become a licensed California contractor. This isn’t just because we love having our students come back to us again and again to talk about their success. It’s also important for your career and marketability in the long term; the more you know, the easier it is for clients to make the decision to work with you.

Not all continuing education is the same, however. Here are the two types of learning that matter most in California’s competitive construction industry:

First, the kind of continuing education that teaches you more about construction

The art of putting together buildings and projects is changing all the time, and the more you can keep up with these changes, the bigger advantage you have over your competitors. From learning about solar power and green building technologies to improving your blueprint-reading and project estimation skills, there are lots of classes that help you directly on the job.

Some of these allow you to take on different kinds of California construction projects, or to do the kind of work you already have been more efficiently and effectively. Others help you keep up with legal changes and registrations. Either way, it’s a good idea to know what’s being offered and take these kinds of classes on a continuing basis.

The second kind of continuing education makes you better at running your business

Good licensed contractors sign up for the first set of classes… great ones – and the ones that make the most money – sign up for the second set, too. That’s because they know a few hours spent learning about things like marketing, time management, and negotiation skills pay for themselves dozens of times over in the long run.

Although most licensed contractors are self-employed or run small businesses, it’s still important that they treat them as businesses and not hobbies. The businesses that make money are the ones that understand invoicing, payroll, estimating costs, and dozens of other small factors that contribute to their success. Don’t pass up on the opportunity to become a smarter businessperson.

If you think you should be learning more about the California construction industry, or what it takes to run a successful contracting business, click here to see our list of CSLS upcoming courses and check back often for more updates.