This research paper examines the competencies required for the ability to describe the basic principles of structural behavior. As a cornerstone of the global economy, the construction industry employs about 7% of the global workforce and contributes approximately 13% to the world’s Gross Domestic Product. In the United States, it significantly affects a large portion of the population. Despite its importance, the industry faces persistent challenges, including declining productivity, workplace safety issues, and labor disputes. These problems underscore the vital role of construction project managers, whose ability to address such challenges depends on a well-developed set of competencies. A prior study identified 21 core competencies for construction project managers, encompassing universal and domain-specific knowledge areas and relevant personality characteristics. To assess their importance, a survey with 672 ranking questions was developed using a novel framework. A total of 2,016 academic participants worldwide received randomized sets of 21 ranking questions to maintain assessment balance. This paper focuses on how these competencies relate specifically to the ability to describe the basic principles of structural behavior. The findings aim to guide construction education programs in prioritizing competency development, informing curriculum design, and shaping course content that meets evolving industry needs. By emphasizing the connection between core competencies and professional effectiveness, the study contributes to broader efforts to enhance construction project management. The results provide actionable insights for educators, policymakers, and industry leaders seeking to better equip the future workforce with the skills required to navigate the complexities of modern construction environments.

Keywords: Construction project management, knowledge area, personality characteristic, skill, structural behavior.