So You Want To Build Something?
Welcome to a world of careers you might not know exist (yet!)
Have you ever walked past a construction site and wondered how a building actually gets made?
Spoiler alert: it’s not just one job — and it’s definitely not just hammers and hard hats.
Welcome to So You Want to Build Something?, a new blog series from Legacy Builders where we explore the many people, skills, and careers it takes to turn an idea into a real, working building. Over the next few weeks, we’ll take you behind the scenes of construction and introduce you to careers you may have never heard of — but might one day love.
Whether you like drawing, math, machines, technology, organizing, problem-solving, or working with your hands, there’s a place for you in construction.
Let’s start with the big picture…
Dreaming, Designing & Planning the Project
These careers imagine the building before it exists.
Project owner representative
Architect
Interior designer
Pre-development project manager
Structural engineer
Mechanical engineer
Electrical engineer
Civil engineer
Landscaping engineer
These are the people who ask big questions like:
What should this building look like? How will it work? How can we make it safe, comfortable, and long-lasting?
Rules, Safety & Protection
These careers make sure buildings are safe, legal, and built the right way.
Government approval departments / inspectors
Construction lawyer
Construction insurance professionals
Safety audits (IHSA)
Quality control manager
They protect people, projects, and communities, and help make sure every building follows the rules.
Money, Schedules & Organization
These careers keep projects running smoothly.
Construction estimator
Construction project manager
Construction project coordinator
Accountant / bookkeeper
Support office staff
Big projects need great planners. These roles focus on budgets, timelines, teamwork, and communication.
Leaders on the Construction Site
These careers lead teams and solve problems every day.
Site superintendent
Foreperson
They make sure everyone knows what to do, stays safe, and works together to get the job done.
Foundations & Structure
These careers build the strength of the building.
Excavator
Helical piles
Concrete reinforcement (rebar)
Precast concrete (manufacturer & installer)
Structural steel
Masonry
From underground foundations to towering frames, these jobs make sure buildings stand strong.
Power, Water & Comfort Systems
These careers make buildings comfortable and efficient.
HVAC
Refrigeration
Geothermal systems
Sprinkler systems
They control heating, cooling, air quality, and fire protection — using science, technology, and hands-on skills.
Technology, Movement & Security
These careers help buildings work safely every day.
Elevator specialists
Security systems installers
Utility companies (temporary site services)
From elevators to alarms, these systems keep people moving and protected.
Finishing & Design Details
These careers make buildings look and feel amazing.
Millwork (kitchens, cabinets, built-ins)
Metal fabrications (railings, details)
Doors (metal, wood, specialty)
Windows
Finish hardware
Acoustics
Flooring
Painting
This is where creativity, precision, and craftsmanship shine.
Protecting the Building
These careers defend buildings from weather, fire, and time.
Waterproofing
Fireproofing
Siding
Roofing (asphalt, metal, and more)
They help buildings last for decades.
Behind-the-Scenes & Final Steps
These careers support the site and bring everything together.
Labourer
Carpenter
Construction cleaner
Site security
Tower crane operator
Hoist operator
Testing (soil testing, investigations)
Commissioning
Every role matters — and every project needs a strong team.
Follow Along!
Over the next few weeks, we’ll take a deeper dive into each of these career themes, sharing:
What the job is really like
What skills help you succeed
Why these careers matter
How kids and teens can start exploring them today
So if you’ve ever thought, “I like building things” or “I want a job that makes a difference” — this series is for you.
👉 Follow along as we answer one big question:
So… you want to build something?
