Dreaming, Designing & Planning the Project
Dreaming, Designing & Planning the Project
Before a building ever becomes real, someone has to imagine it.
What will it look like?
Will it be safe?
How will people move through it?
How does it stand up, stay warm, and last for years?
That’s where the Dreaming, Designing & Planning careers come in. These are the people who turn ideas into plans, and plans into buildings.
If you like designing, problem-solving, math, science, technology, or thinking about the future, keep reading!
🏗️ Project Owner Representative
The voice of the client
This person represents the owner of the building (like a city, company, or school board). They help make big decisions, manage goals, and make sure the project stays on track.
Good fit if you like: leadership, communication, decision-making
Education: College or university (often with experience)
🏛️ Architect
Designs how buildings look and work
Architects design buildings: how they look on the outside, how spaces flow on the inside, and how people use them every day.
Education: College or university
Average salary: $82,289 – $105,064
Fun fact: Architects mix creativity with math and problem-solving every single day.
🎨 Interior Designer
Designs the inside experience
Interior designers choose layouts, materials, lighting, and finishes to make spaces comfortable, functional, and beautiful.
Good fit if you like: creativity, design, colors, layouts
Education: College or university
📋 Pre-Development Project Manager
Plans everything before construction starts
Before a shovel hits the ground, this role looks at budgets, schedules, land, permits, and risks to decide if a project is ready to move forward.
Good fit if you like: organizing, planning, teamwork
Education: College or university
Related salary range (estimators & managers): $65,232 – $113,898
🧠 Engineers: The Problem Solvers
Engineers use math, science, and technology to make sure buildings are safe and work properly.
Structural Engineer
Makes sure buildings are strong and won’t fall down.
Mechanical Engineer
Designs heating, cooling, and ventilation systems.
Electrical Engineer
Plans power, lighting, and energy systems.
Civil Engineer
Designs roads, drainage, water systems, and site layouts.
Education: University
Average salary range: $60,450 – $120,000
If you like figuring out how things work, engineering might be for you.
🌿 Landscaping Engineer / Landscape Architect
Designs the outdoor spaces
This career focuses on how land, plants, walkways, and outdoor areas are designed around buildings.
Education: University + internship
Average salary: $59,543 – $83,629
Great for students who like: nature, design, and sustainability
Why These Careers Matter
Without these careers:
Buildings wouldn’t be safe
Spaces wouldn’t function properly
Projects would cost more and take longer
Communities wouldn’t get the spaces they need
These professionals shape how we live, learn, work, and play.
Thinking About Your Future?
You don’t have to decide right now — Grade 8 is all about exploring.
Here’s what you can do:
Pay attention to what subjects you enjoy
Try design, STEM, or tech clubs
Ask questions about how buildings are made
Stay curious 👀
Over the next few weeks, we’ll keep exploring more construction careers — from hands-on trades to high-tech systems and leadership roles.
