Fun fact, I started my career in human resources. I worked primarily in healthcare in various roles of recruiting, sourcing, and talent onboarding. Then I turned my passions towards construction and working with my hands. Certainly I learned many things in that transition as well as many tough lessons on business and people management. Moving from residential construction to commercial construction has been one of the more fascinating changes in my career. Plenty of transferable skills but I have put together a short list of what I think are the most significant for those looking to make a smoother transition.

Familiarize yourself with commercial construction: I know that sounds obvious. But take time to learn about commercial construction, including different building codes, regulations, and safety requirements. This will help you understand the unique challenges and opportunities of commercial construction.

Build your network: Commercial construction projects often involve larger teams than residential construction. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with others in the field to build your network. Networking can help you find opportunities and learn about the industry.

Be flexible: Residential construction tends to be more flexible and fluid, while commercial construction is often more structured and regulated. Be prepared to adapt to new processes and protocols to succeed in a commercial construction environment.

Expand your knowledge: To successfully transition to commercial construction, you may need to expand your knowledge and skills. Consider taking courses or workshops to learn more about topics such as building codes, safety regulations, and project management.

Emphasize transferable skills: As you look for new career opportunities, emphasize the transferable skills you have gained in residential construction. Examples might include project management, communication, problem-solving, and attention to detail.

By following these tips, you can make a successful transition to commercial construction and continue to grow your career in this exciting field. I am no expert, but these tips have certainly helped me along the way.

-Nate Regina