If you have ever built a home or business or even had renovations completed, you know none of it would get done without a contractor. Contractors are the ‘doctors’ of the construction industry in that nothing gets done without their organization and scheduling.
At Hook Agency, it’s our role to help promote the top contractors in the business. Not all contractors are the same; different types are general, specialty contractors and their roles differ.
What is a General Contractor
As you may have guessed, a general contractor is responsible for overseeing the entire project. But there are two types of general contractors: general building contractors and general engineering contractors.
These two different types of general contractors will typically have other roles as well as unique licensing standards.
General Engineering Contractor
A general engineering contractor will have a Class A license and will have skills that pertain to several areas of the industry. They manage construction and organize the removal, repair, or improvements.
A contractor holding a Class A license will most likely oversee larger projects such as constructing bridges, dams, and roads.
General Building Contractor
A general building contractor will hold a Class B license and focus on specific details, such as smaller construction on buildings or framing projects.
What is a Specialty Contractor
A specialty contractor will typically hold a Class C license and have a specific skillset on one niche. They will be most likely to work on specific construction and maintenance tasks as subcontractors. They are often hired for renovation projects.
What Contractor is Best?
When it comes to comparing contractors, there is no one better than the other. The customer’s needs need to be considered when choosing and what they need for their specific project.
If an entire project needs to be overseen, then a general contractor is best to lead a complete project. A specialty contractor is brought in to work on specific tasks in a particular project.
At Hook Agency, we work with our clients to provide them with the specific contractor that is right for the project they need to be completed.
Should You Specialize?
Whether you specialize in your industry or are a general contractor is up to you depending on your particular areas of expertise and what you prefer. Either way, we can help you get your name out there and work on projects that speak to your skillset.
If you are good at organizing and delegating tasks and are comfortable taking on the complete overseeing of a job, then a general contractor is right for you. You will hand specific responsibilities to subcontractors and sign off on the entire job upon completion.
If you are outstanding in one aspect, you may consider becoming a specialty contractor. Deciding which one is right for you depends entirely on which you are better suited.
Steps to Becoming a Contractor
You’ve decided that you want to become a contractor; now, you need to take on the steps to begin the journey to fulfilling that goal.
Step One: Which Type of Contractor to Become
The first step is determining which type of contractor you want to become, a general or specialty contractor.
Step Two: Educational Requirements
You will need a degree to obtain the requirements for a contractor license through a bachelor’s degree program focusing on engineering, project planning, and management, architecture, or construction management. To make yourself a force in the industry, you can obtain a master’s degree in project planning or construction management.
Step Three: Training
A licensed contractor needs to complete training beyond experience in the industry or through education in a trade school, college, or university. You will need to contact the contractor licensing board in your state.
How Long Does Becoming a Contractor Take?
To become a contractor takes anywhere from three to seven years, depending on the degree you choose to earn and how you gain the experience, through school alone or on the job.
If you rely on your work experience to gain the necessary skills and on-the-job know-how to achieve your licensing or go through a trade school to complete an apprenticeship, it will take between three to five years.
If you follow a strictly academic path, it will take four years to earn a bachelor’s degree, or up to seven years to obtain a master’s degree if you wish to gain certification in your field through an industry certification association.
Bottom Line
Whatever type of contractor you become, we can help you reach your optimal goals. We help smart contractors own their marketing with a google specialized team. Whatever your qualification is or where your specialties lie, we will help get you on the path to success.
