This article is part of our Construction Business Startup Guide—a curated list of articles to help you plan, start, and grow your construction business!
The construction industry is a behemoth. True, you’re going to be in competition with a lot of other people, but you’re also going to be operating in one of the most in-demand industries, and in an industry of the future.
To give yourself an edge, make sure to stay on top of the latest trends and news. Join associations, participate in forums, and network. Below you’ll find some top resources to get you started.
Did we miss your favorite resource? Let us know!
Associations and need-to-know information
Occupational Safety and Health Administration for the Construction Industry
This resource maintained by the United States Department of Labor is intended for both employees and employers within the construction industry. It provides advice on keeping safe during construction, training and outreach materials, and much more.
It might not be the most exciting resource to peruse, but if you want to be sure you’re doing things properly, it’s an essential one!
The Associated General Contractors of America
If you’re looking for the umbrella site that represents you, AGC is the leading association for the construction industry with more than 26,000 firms represented (including leading general contractors and specialty-contracting firms).
There are also thousands of service providers and suppliers associated with the site, so if you need a place to start your networking and research, this is it. You can find out more about becoming a member here.
Magazines and blogs
Building Design + Construction
If you’re looking for news from literally everyone in the construction industry—both engineers and foremen—don’t skip this resource. And, no matter how you like to consume your information, there’s a filter for you.
Sort by building sector, by building team, or even by blog (yes, they have a number of blogs on their site too). You can even subscribe to the magazine if you prefer a hard copy. Simply put, this is one epic resource you will want to spend a bit of time on.
If you know you’re going to go into residential construction, Builder is the magazine for you. More than a blog (and magazine), this site also stores local housing data, a library of excellent video interviews, and a directory of firms (that you may also want to get yourself into).
Read the blog, or subscribe to the magazine here.
It may be a British-run online magazine, but it’s one that people rave about. Started by two ex journalists, this is the site to read if you’re looking for high-quality content and news reporting.
If you’re interested in gaining insight into international trends and progress, you may be able to bring something back that puts you ahead of the competition and the game.
Other useful sites
For anyone seeking advice or wanting to focus on how to brand and market a construction company, The Jobsite is the place to go.
And, because it’s run by Procore, a company that makes construction management software, you’ll also get great advice on the technology side of marketing, apps, and software as they relate to the industry.
Procore’s Continuing Education Site
When it comes to continuing (or starting) your construction education, Procore provides a comprehensive and professional library of courses and presentations.
Here you’ll find content taught by construction industry leaders, and you’ll get to learn at your own pace. Best of all? This immense library of courses is free!
Ready to take things to the next level?
If you’re wondering how to improve revenue for your construction business, be sure to check out Strategies to Increase Your Construction Business Revenue.
If, however, you want to start a construction business but haven’t taken those first steps yet, read our guide on How to Start a Construction Company. If you’re looking to get your company funded, you’ll want to write a business plan—so make sure to browse through our library of free sample construction business plans.
Candice is a freelance writer, jeweler, and digital marketing hybrid.
