Career development in construction management

The career development of construction managers is examined using semi-structured interviews with directors and senior executives of building and/or civil engineering contractors. A postal questionnaire developed and then refined from the interview data was distributed to junior, middle and senior construction managers. A total of 73 completed questionnaires formed the data base for the quantitative analysis. Qualitative and quantitative data were analysed to determine the educational profile of construction managers, their career path and intra and inter firm mobility. Additionally, the reasons for intra and inter firm mobility were analysed. Self-report data and the skills required both presently and in the future is a major component of the study. Consideration of the changing nature of construction management is reported. It is recommended that career development manuals be provided to enable contractors to manage their professional staff. Further research to establish self-perceptions of a career in construction management and the impact on career development is suggested. In addition, following the development of a skills and knowledge inventory, in the present study, it is recommended that further research is needed to determine the type of provision, duration and location of construction management courses.