Construction: Creating the Blueprints for Progress

How can I start a career in construction?

  • Do you enjoy detail-oriented work that requires dexterity and hand-eye coordination?

  • Do you enjoy employing your math skills and working in a team environment?

  • Are you an innovative individual who loves to work on a project from conceptualization to completion?

If so, a career in construction may be the right fit for you. Construction career pathways involve the planning, creation, and maintenance of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings or structures. Specialties include construction management and heavy equipment operation.

Your Pathway to Success

Read on for our comprehensive guide to construction education and training opportunities in Montana. Whether you're seeking rapid training programs, certificates, or advanced degrees, you'll find diverse educational pathways to help you align your studies with your career goals.

Check out our Design and Construction Career Pathways page to explore in-demand construction jobs in Montana and take the first step toward a successful career in Construction Technology.

Rapid Training, Certificates, and One- and Two-Year Programs

  • Highway Construction Certificate (pdf pg. 101)

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: Little Big Horn College’s 30-credit Highway Construction certificate (pdf pg. 101) is designed to help prepare students for successful employment in the construction industry. Upon completion of the program, students will be able to demonstrate practical knowledge of the trucking, commercial passenger industries, as well as highway construction industry, including requisite laws, regulations, operator qualifications, preventative maintenance, controls and basic operational experiences/skills, and work-site safety measures. Additionally, graduates will be well prepared to pass the necessary state licensure exams to attain a Class “A” Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)— as well as other classes of commercial vehicle operations licenses.

  • Highway Construction Certificate

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: The Highway Construction Training Program (HCT) at Salish Kootenai College provides students with the necessary technical skills, knowledge, and credentials to obtain employment as entry-level heavy equipment operators and truck drivers. The curriculum is designed to prepare students to meet the needs of employers in the highway construction industry, general road construction, mining operations and related industries, and in tribal, city, county, state, and federal government road maintenance jobs. Students work in a positive learning environment under the supervision of qualified instructors who guide and advise them in conditions that duplicate actual work sites.

  • Construction Technology Certificate of Technical Studies (C.T.S.)

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: In City College’s one-year certificate Construction Technology program, students will learn the basics of home construction including framing, roofing, siding, drywall, painting, and trim carpentry through hands-on experience in our construction lab. This technical training will be combined with classroom instruction in essential business management and project planning skills including accounting, entrepreneurship, blueprint reading, estimating, and other basic aspects of construction project management.

    Construction Management Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: City College’s A.A.S. in Construction Management provides an opportunity for students to explore more advanced project management. Students also build upon their technical skills with advanced instruction in business management, project planning and coordination, and construction estimating. The combination of these skills will prepare students for advancement from the front lines of construction into management positions and can also provide a pathway to successful small business ownership.

    Instrument and Electrical Technician A.A.S.

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: City College’s Instrument and Electrical Technician degree builds an individual’s knowledge on basic electrical systems, programmable logic controllers and skill sets to inspect, operate and repair instrumentation systems. This program prepares students for challenging and rewarding careers in a variety of industries, oil refineries, petroleum fields, natural gas processing, power plants, water treatment plants, food processing, and sustainable energy industries.

  • Heating, Ventilation, Air-conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC) Apprentice, Certificate of Technical Studies C.T.S

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: Completion of the HVAC certificate program at Flathead Valley Community College satisfies the Montana Department of Labor and Industry requirement for the educational component of the HVAC apprenticeship program. In conjunction with the required work experience, this program provides students the training necessary to work in the field of heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration in residential and commercial applications.

    Heavy Equipment Operator C.T.S.

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: Flathead Valley Community College’s Heavy Equipment Operator C.T.S. program prepares students to enter the equipment operations career field as entry-level operators. The program contains instruction and hands-on experience on bulldozers, backhoes, track excavators, wheel loaders, skid steers, motor graders, rollers, tractors, water tankers, dump trucks, and equipment transports. Students will also gain familiarity in interpreting construction grade stakes, safety procedures, and equipment maintenance. Class “A” Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training and testing are an integral part of this program. Students will have the opportunity to test for a Class B (Bus) license.

    Electrical Technology Certificate of Advance Study (C.A.S.) or Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length(s): C.A.S. = 1 year; A.A.S. = 2 years

    • Description: Both the C.A.S. and A.A.S. in FVCC’s Electrical Technology program provide students the training necessary to enter the field of electrical wiring in residential, commercial, and industrial construction sites. Upon successful completion of the first two semesters, the student has met the requirements for the C.A.S. Successful completion of all four semesters meets the requirement for the A.A.S. Graduates are eligible for advanced placement into a registered apprentice position.

    Electronics Technician C.T.S. , C.A.S., or A.A.S.

    • Program Length(s): C.T.S. = 1 semester (15 weeks); C.A.S. = 1 year; A.A.S. = 2 years

    • Description: Flathead Valley Community College’s Electronics Technician program is designed to give students the technical and interpersonal skills necessary for placement into electronics technician positions. Students gain theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience with both basic and advanced electronics including circuits, controllers, and the machine to system interface.

    Electrical Apprentice C.T.S.

    • Program Length: 8 semesters (up to 4 years)

    • Description: Completion of the Electrical Apprentice C.T.S. program satisfies the Montana Department of Labor and Industry requirement for the educational component of the electrical apprenticeship program, and it is intended only for currently registered electrical apprentices. Please note that this program is not eligible for federal financial aid. The program is scheduled for a succession of eight semesters, fall and spring. In conjunction with the required work experience, this program provides students the training necessary to work in the field of electrical wiring in residential, commercial, and industrial applications.

  • Carpentry Certificate of Applied Science (C.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: In just two semesters, the Carpentry Certificate of Applied Science (CAS) teaches the many applications of carpentry within the construction trades industry. Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training, you will learn fundamentals and advanced skills in carpentry, including job safety, rough framing, blueprint reading, and finishing. Program graduates will be prepared to immediately enter the workforce at a strong wage and in an industry actively seeking these highly demanded skills.

    Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Certificate or Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: Certificate = 1 year; A.A.S. = 2 years

    • Description: Students in the Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program at Gallatin College MSU have the opportunity to either pursue an one-year Certificate of Applied Science to become a HVAC-R Installer or a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree to work as a HVAC-R Technician. Both degrees teach the theoretical, technical and procedural aspects of working in the HVAC-R industry, with special emphasis on residential systems as well as advanced instruction on commercial systems and new technology. At the end of the program, HVAC-R graduates will be prepared to immediately enter the thriving, lucrative construction industry with vital skills.

  • Construction Technology – Carpentry Certificate or Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: Certificate = 1 year; A.A.S. = 2 years

  • Construction Helper Certificate

    Carpentry Certificate

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: In addition to developing teamwork and interpersonal skills needed to succeed in today's workplace, Missoula College’s one-year carpentry certificate will provide you with hands-on working knowledge of basic carpentry skills including site preparation and layout, concrete forming and placement, residential framing, roofing, siding and window installation. This is a great way to gain a number of valuable skills and experience that will introduce you to the carpentry profession.

    Heavy Equipment Operation Certificate

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: From crawler-tractors and backhoes to dump trucks, Missoula College’s Heavy Equipment Operation certificate program will equip you with a basic understanding of fundamental machine function and capabilities as well as apprentice-level skills in the safe operation of heavy equipment. The program also promotes an awareness of proper machine operation in a construction environment with emphasis on the ability to complete a task assigned verbally or from job plans and grade stakes on the site.

    Sustainable Construction Certificate or Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: Certificate = 1 year; A.A.S. = 2 years

    • Description: Learn sustainable construction skills while working hand-in-hand with professionals both on campus and at construction sites with Missoula College’s Sustainable Construction program. You'll gain experience reading blueprints, using hand and power tools, and building construction. You'll construct real-world projects while you earn a Certificate of Applied Science or an Associate of Applied Science degree.

    Construction Management Certificate (2-year program)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: This two-year program in construction management from Missoula College prepares students to be successful in the construction industry. Many skills are acquired and honed through the program, including safe practices, management and skills competency and the construction of real-world projects. This hands-on education will provide a strong grasp of the ins and outs of construction. If you're eager to learn more after the two years is up, you can seamlessly pursue an associate of applied science degree with just one more year of education.

  • Electrical Technology Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: MSU-Northern's Electrical Technology program is the only program in the state to offer an Associate of Applied Science in conjunction with the State of Montana Apprenticeship program. The electrical program offers apprentices the opportunity to learn in hands-on courses and covers a major portion of the academic requirements of an apprenticeship. As a result, up to 3,115 hours can be applied toward the total 8,000 required apprenticeship hours, and graduates are prepared to start their career with a firm foundation of knowledge and skill. Graduates of the electrical program will have the capacity to perform basic electrical tasks with the supervision of a journeyman electrician on the first day of work. After approximately two to three years of on-the-job training and one test preparation course, the graduate will be able to apply to sit for their journeyman’s license.

    Plumbing Technology A.A.S.

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: Montana State University Northern’s innovative plumbing degree is the only one of its kind in the state and is broadly supported by Montana's plumbing industry. Graduates enter one of the largest and highest paid construction industries in the country (1.5 million people) and play an important role in keeping our water clean. Northern's plumbing program offers plumbing apprentices the opportunity to learn in hands-on courses and covers a major portion of the academic requirements of an apprenticeship. As a result, the time spent in the classroom can be applied toward the total number of apprenticeship hours and graduates are prepared to start their career with a firm foundation of knowledge and skill.

  • Building Trades Certificate (2-Year Program)

Minors and Four-Year Programs

  • Construction Engineering Technology Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: The Montana State Civil Engineering department prepares construction engineering technology graduates to plan and supervise construction for major projects such as highways, buildings and industrial plants. The CET program offers experienced and well-connected faculty who teach students hands-on problem-solving techniques that will serve them throughout their careers.

  • Business - Construction Management, Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: Montana Tech’s Construction Management B.A.S. track is specifically designed for students who have completed an AAS in Construction Technology or a related field. These students continue to a bachelor’s degree where they receive specific business coursework related to the construction industry. The business training includes a general business curriculum as well as specific coursework related to estimating, construction contracts, labor issues, safety issues, information technology, and project management. Historically, students studying under the Construction Management track have been very successful in landing industry related internships and full-time professional employment.

Skill Development and Certifications

  • The RDO Equipment Co Access Your Future Service Program is for students interested in a career in the equipment industry as a Service Technician. This program provides two distinct career paths, Service Intern and Service Technician Apprentice, for qualified students who will be attending, are currently attending, or have just graduated from accredited diesel, heavy equipment service, powersports, or other RDO-approved programs. The program provides paid work experience and training along with the potential to earn tools, a graduation bonus, and 4 years of post-graduation financial incentives.

  • Accelerate Montana’s Job Site Ready (“JSR”) course is a Rapid Training Program designed to provide participants essential skills needed to join Montana’s booming construction industry. As a job-preparedness program, Job Site Ready equips participants with essential skills required to start an entry-level job in the Construction trades. Participants will be given exposure to tool use and maintenance, materials handling, workplace safety, industrial practices, and project management. The JSR course is offered through Bitterroot College, Blackfeet Community College, City College, Gallatin College, Great Falls College, Helena College, and Missoula College.

  • The Montana registered apprenticeship training programs are designed to be structured, yet flexible, and meet state, federal, and industry standards. Through collaboration with employer sponsors, the Montana registered apprenticeship program meets real work situations and skill requirements. Apprenticeship Programs are sponsored by employers, employer associations, or labor/management groups (JATC's) that can hire and train in a real-world working situation.

  • Dick Anderson Construction’s registered pre-apprenticeship program allows 16-year-olds to work in a paid position.

  • The AGC Certificate of Management-Building Information Modeling (CM-BIM) is an assessment-based certificate credential that denotes knowledge and understanding of concepts related to BIM adoption, practice and process transformation outlined in the AGC BIM Education Program. Successful candidates who pass the exam will carry the CM-BIM designation.

  • The University of Providence’s Argo Connect and dual credit programs are crucial in helping to increase the educational options and opportunities for currently enrolled high school juniors and seniors. Not only do these programs provide students with a unique opportunity to earn credit at the secondary and postsecondary levels simultaneously – they provide students with an early glimpse of college life; including course load, deadlines, structure, and more. Students in Dual Enrollment can take up to three 3-credit courses at no cost.

Additional Career Resources

  • Check out our construction career pathways page to explore in-demand construction jobs in Montana.

  • To identify in-demand roles in Montana, our team at the Montana High Tech Business Alliance pored over workforce data from the U.S. Department of Labor, research studies, and online job listings to create a list of tech jobs projected to grow fast in the next few years. See our list of 31 hot Montana jobs projected for 2023.

  • Build Montana is a nonprofit that works to address the shortage of skilled workers in the equipment distribution industry through a strategy that brings dealers, manufacturers, and educators together.

  • We invite you to take advantage of Microsoft's Skills for Jobs initiative, which offers free access to LinkedIn Learning courses covering a wide range of topics, including AI and soft skills. Enhance your digital skills and empower your team and community with valuable knowledge that aligns with the evolving needs of today's economy.

  • Discover summer internships and local mentorship opportunities in Billings through the Campus Billings program hosted by Big Sky Economic Development.

  • CompTIA’s Career Explorer is a comprehensive resource designed to inform, inspire, and guide individuals toward their next career step in the tech industry and beyond. Explore the entire portfolio of Career Explorer resources at no cost, watch video profiles featuring diverse professionals sharing their non-traditional paths into tech careers, and gain insights into earnings potential, job outlook, employer hiring trends, remote work opportunities, and much more across the U.S. and 250 metro areas.

  • Reach Higher Montana’s Work-Based Learning Collaborative website features resources for employers to grow their talent pipeline through work-based learning, materials to help educators connect their classroom learning to careers, and links to resources that will help Montana students explore their career interests through on-the-job training.

  • The WBLC Data Dashboard aims to make data on work-based learning in Montana accessible to help improve workforce support, work-based learning, and educational opportunities so that young people are better prepared for employment success and employers gain skilled workers. Updates are made annually.

  • Produced by the Montana Work-Based Learning Collaborative, the Work-Based Learning Toolkit for Employers provides employers with resources, tools, and guidance to successfully develop high-quality work-based learning experiences for student workers.

  • Read “5 Tips to Set Yourself Up for Success in a Tech Career” to learn tips for launching a career in tech from hiring managers at Blackfoot Communications, Submittable, GL Solutions, onX, Skyfish, Cognizant, NorthWestern Energy, Pathlabs, Snapchat, and Instacart.

  • In “5 Tips from Hiring Managers - How to Land a Montana Tech Job or Internship” local hiring managers from Boeing Helena, Hyundai Motor Group, and Zoot Enterprises share advice to help students stand out when applying for a Montana tech job or internship.

  • See what tips you can use to give you an advantage in pursuing Tech Jobs or Internships in Montana.

  • Check out MHTBA’s Great Places for Tech article series to learn more about high-tech opportunities in Montana.

  • Take a look at our Jobs board that we use to post many tech jobs that are in Montana from entry level to Senior level positions.

  • If you can’t find what you’re looking for on our Jobs Board, see this O*NET Career Database for additional information.

  • Interested in more careers outside of Montana or outside the High-Tech Industry? Find additional occupational information with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Do you have a helpful resource you’d like to suggest we add to this guide? Do you have information you are searching for, or other feedback? The Montana High Tech Business Alliance would love to hear from you. Please reach out to us at communications[at]mthightech.org.

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