Herzing Skilled Trades

Construction estimators are the financial guardians of building projects. They translate blueprints and specifications into dollar figures, estimating the costs of materials, labour, and equipment.

Their work is crucial for winning bids, managing budgets, and ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required standards.

But what exactly does a construction estimator do? What does a typical day look like?

In this post, we offer a detailed look at the day-to-day responsibilities of construction estimators and the pivotal role they play in construction projects. We also delve into salaries, career prospects, and the skills needed to succeed in this role.

Keep reading to see if this career is a good fit for you.

While construction estimating does not receive as much attention as other jobs in the skilled trades, it’s one of the most important roles on any construction site. A good estimator is critical to the success of any construction firm, since the accuracy and timeliness of a bid is a determining factor in which company wins the bid.

And skilled estimators are in demand. Government projections show that construction estimators have strong career prospects across most of Canada, including Ontario, Quebec, and the Prairie provinces.

So what specific skills do you need to find success as a construction estimator? The following five attributes are widely considered essential.

Construction project management focuses on shepherding a building project from beginning to end, always with an eye on budgets and timelines. It encompasses everything from resource allocation and scheduling management to risk assessment and cost control.

If you’re considering a career in this field, you probably have a few questions, like: What are the day-to-day responsibilities of construction project managers? How do they help get things built? And what skills do you need to thrive in this role?

Updated December 2023

So you’re interested in planning, coordinating, and overseeing building projects? We’ve got some good news: Now is the perfect time to begin a construction management career.

The Ontario government says construction managers have an above-average outlook between 2023 and 2027, with as many as 6,000 job openings expected across the province.

With the right training, you can be ready to take advantage of that demand.

But there are so many construction management programs to choose from, at both the university and college levels. How can you find the best fit? What should you look for when comparing options?

Here are four things to consider.

Updated December 2022

Like the idea of coordinating a build from start to finish? Interested in project management and wondering how to become a construction manager?

Now is a great time to get into this career. According to the Government of Canada Job Bank, construction managers are in steady demand all over Ontario.

Salaries are high, too. The Job Bank says construction managers in Ontario earn a median income of over $87,000. Some make more than $146,000.

But how can you break into this role? What skills are required and what training options do you have? Do you need a university degree to qualify for those high-paying jobs?

In this post, we break it all down into simple terms.

Compare the two different paths to becoming a construction manager (degree vs. diploma) and get help to decide which is right for you.

Here's what you need to know.

Updated December 2023

Some of the most in-demand jobs in Canada right now are in the construction industry.

Careers in the skilled trades offer tremendous opportunities across the country, with great freedom of mobility and job security. These are the jobs least likely to be sent offshore or be lost to automation. They offer high pay, great benefits, and often the flexibility to set your own hours or be your own boss.

Ontario's construction industry is projected to grow over the coming years, driven by numerous new infrastructure and utilities projects as well as big demand in the residential building and renovation market.

And don't forget, many skilled tradespeople are continuing to retire. Over 82,000 trades positions will need to be filled in Ontario alone between 2023 and 2032 to make up for those who are exiting the industry.

If you're thinking about construction trades training, take a look at five of the most in-demand careers out there right now.