It is the dream of any young rambunctious child to have the ability to use large machines to tear down buildings and large structures. Indeed, a demolition career can be an interesting one. As a contractor, it will be your job to take on demolition jobs and then task crews to safely levels buildings, skyscrapers, apartment complexes, houses and more. In order to get to this point, though, you need to go through the proper licensing procedures. Not only do you need to be familiar with the industry of demolition contracting, but you also need know what all the safety precautions are. Here is how to become a licensed demolition contractor.
First, it will help to have at least a degree from a four-year college. Not only do you want to learn the basics of business administration, but it will also help to take courses in engineering as well. There is a unique science behind properly demolishing a structure. So, before anything, you may want to evaluate your educational background to see if you have what it takes to thrive in a career as a demolition contractor. You could always go through an associate’s degree program if you want to speed up the collegiate process.
After you develop a strong educational foundation, you want to start applying for apprenticeship jobs. These jobs will give you the proper amount of real world experience you need to not only pass your certification exam, but you will also get a feel for the demolition industry. Depending on your state, you may need anywhere from six months to two years of building experience before you are eligible to take your exam. So, you may want to start contacting different companies – like Stark Excavating Inc. – to see if they have any open positions.
Next, you want to study for your licensing exam. You can usually find out from your state licensing board when the next test is, so that you can give yourself the time you need to study and prepare. When it comes to studying for the exam, you want to learn the information and memorize it like the back of your hand. When you are sitting down to take the exam, you want to feel crystal clear about being right on every question, because you don’t want to wait another year to take the exam. You may also want to take practice exams while you study – just to be extra prepared.
Lastly, you want to take your exam. If you studied hard enough and you have memorized the materials, you should do just fine. Your exam will usually be held at a local community college or at the offices of the board that oversees the licensing of demolition contractors. Not only do you want to feel confident and prepared before taking your exam, but you also want to get plenty of sleep the night before. Being totally alert, awake and ready to take on the exam will be critical. Just look at the exam like the first step on the road to your long career as a demolition