What the Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal Means for Jobs

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal Supports Careers in Construction and Engineering

On November 15th, 2021, President Biden signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal, also known as the “Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA),” into law. The new legislation will provide historic federal investments in America’s infrastructure over five years. Bridges, roads, and public transit, as well as broadband, water, and energy systems, will all be targeted by the deal.

The IIJA marks the most significant investment into the nation’s infrastructure system since the Interstate Highway System in the 1950s. It demonstrates a long-term approach to strengthening America’s aging public infrastructure. However, it also represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for construction workers, construction managers, and civil engineers.

A quick look at the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act

The IIJA aims to create a substantial number of new projects across the country, from urban areas to rural ones. It will also inject funding into almost every sector of the nation’s transportation, safety, and public health frameworks. Overall, the deal will produce $550 billion in federal infrastructure investments over five years.

Here are the projects funded by the IIJA:

• Roads, bridges, and major projects
• Passenger and freight rails
• Highway and pedestrian safety
• The public transit system
• Broadband infrastructure
• Ports and waterways
• Airport improvements and air traffic control
• Water infrastructure
• Energy infrastructure
• Critical infrastructure needs
• Electric, low-emission school buses & ferries

What does the IIJA mean for the construction and civil engineering fields?

For highway contractors, utility contractors, direct federal contractors, building contractors, and contractors who work on railways, waterways, transit systems, and airports, the IIJA presents a significant opportunity. Since it calls for billions of dollars worth of investments in the field, construction workers will benefit from the IIJA substantially. Civil engineers, especially transportation engineers, can also profit from the new law.

President Biden mentioned that an essential aspect of the bill includes creating well-paying jobs around the country. These positions will contribute to one of the most groundbreaking upgrades to the nation’s infrastructure in 50 years.

If you’ve ever thought about a career in construction or engineering, there has never been a better time to start!

How can you become a civil engineer or enter the construction industry during this historic time?

Maybe you’ve just completed high school. Or, perhaps you already have a work history, and you want to enter a new field. Either way, you can start your career in this industry with strategic planning.

There isn’t just one way to get into construction, and the various job descriptions may seem overwhelming. However, the best way to begin is to pick which path is best for you.

Decide which career pathways in construction interest you. Do you want to do the work directly, or are you interested in managing construction sites? Do you want to build commercial structures or focus on building highways and roads? These questions can help guide you to the right starting point.

After you’ve figured out which field you want to enter, you can take a course or earn an online degree. An undergraduate or graduate degree in construction can help you gain the tools to succeed in the industry without previous experience. Alternatively, you can consider an entry-level job that offers on-the-job training or find an apprenticeship.

If you’re interested in becoming a civil engineer, the path is generally straightforward. You can earn a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering to start working in the field. However, the roles that only require an undergraduate degree will typically be junior ones.

After earning your BS in Civil Engineering, consider obtaining licensure. You may also pursue a Master of Science in Civil Engineering or a Graduate Certificate in Transportation Engineering. Advanced certifications such as these will further hone your skillset and prepare you for more senior roles in the field.

Get Started in Construction Management with LSU Online

With the signing of the IIJA into law, more jobs in the construction industry will become available. Such projects will likely require experienced construction managers. If you’re interested in becoming one of these leaders, we can help.

With the online construction manager programs from LSU Online, you can earn the skills to build innovative plans, tackle complex problems, and handle large construction operations.

LSU Online offers access to a range of in-demand degrees and certificates for construction professionals. Topics include Environmental Health Sciences, Industrial Engineering, Construction Management, and more. While the IIJA emphasizes construction projects, any of these programs can contribute to your career advancement in the field.

When enrolled, you will have access to an Enrollment Coach and a Student Success Coach who can assist you with anything you need during your student journey. Online classes are convenient, flexible, and taught by the same expert instructors who teach on-campus. Additionally, all students receive affordable flat-rate tuition nationwide.

Ready to prepare for your future? Learn more about the construction programs we offer:

• Intro to Construction Management Specialist Certificate
• Online Undergraduate Certificate in Construction Management
• Online Bachelor of Science in Construction Management
• Online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Construction Management
• Online Master of Science in Construction Management
• Project Management in Residential Construction Specialist Certificate
• Online Master of Science in Civil Engineering
• Online Graduate Certificate in Transportation Engineering

Or, take your first step toward graduation by applying now!