Skilled trade jobs for building bridges?

I'm exploring skilled trade jobs related to bridge construction. What kind of skills or certifications should I be looking at if I'm interested in working in this field after high school? Any insights would be helpful!

Bridge construction involves several types of skilled trade jobs, each with its own set of required skills and certifications. Here are some key roles involved:

1. Structural Iron and Steel Workers: They assemble the iron or steel beams that form the backbone of the infrastructure. You could get into these roles via an apprenticeship or on-the-job training.

2. Welders: They are responsible for connecting steel or iron parts. A welding certification would be beneficial for this role, and these can be obtained through technical schools or community colleges.

3. Heavy Equipment Operators: They handle the machinery that is used for construction, like cranes and bulldozers. Requirements may include specific training or certifications for operating heavy machinery, often offered through technical schools.

4. Construction Managers: They oversee the entire project, and usually require some post-secondary education in construction management, civil engineering, or a related field.

5. Carpenters and Masons: They're involved in the construction of wooden forms for pouring concrete, or in laying the stonework of the bridges. Most of them learn their trade through an apprenticeship.

6. Electricians: They install and maintain the electrical components and systems in the bridge such as lighting. Most electricians learn through an apprenticeship, though some may attend a technical school. They often need to be licensed.

Remember that no matter the path you decide to pursue, safety training will be a critical part of your education and preparation. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) offers training courses that are often considered standard in the industry. You might also consider completing a program that incorporates the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) curriculum, which is a standardized training process for the construction, maintenance, and pipeline industries.