I just graduated from college with a degree in history from an Ivy League university, but I have decided that I would like to become a custom home builder. What is the best path to take from here, knowing that I spent the last four years working towards the wrong thing?
I’m not worried about the lost time. The experience was great. But I want to get moving. I’m comfortable playing the long game, even if it takes me 10-20 years to get to where I want to be.
What jobs should I work, skills should I acquire, connections should I make, courses should I take, etc. Should I spend a few years working as a laborer for a local GC?
The best thing you can do is to find a contractor you can work for. You will probably need to start work as labor, maybe work through a trade, and move up the ladder. As you develop skills and relationships you can maybe take on some small remodel projects of your own and work up to building custom homes.
You will want to develop relationships with local draftsmen, architects, and subcontractors. The architects and draftsmen can help recommend you for work and the subcontractors are going to be needed for the jobs.
when I was young I worked with my dad that was a general contractor but I took a few years off and worked for a plumbing company and an electrical company just so I can have the general knowledge of what goes inside the floors and walls. when I chose the path of wanting to follow my dads foot steps I needed to have knowledge of everything just because when you are a general contractor you are responsible for every moving part. It is also a smart thing to do a lot of research on your local building codes on your spare time. I also recommend that you work for a really reputable company for a few years and when you are confident about your work take a few small weekend projects to get your feet wet. slowly you will build confidence and clientele. slow and steady. Good Luck
