On the Construction Workforce Shortage

An executive at my company shared a clip featuring the President of one of the largest General Contractors discussing the surge in construction, yet lack of available, skilled workers. 1 in 4 construction workers are over 55 years old, and as they retire it will create an even greater shortage in the job market [1].

I formerly held misconceptions about the construction and trades industries - stereotypes of them being male-dominated, resistant to change, and labor-intensive, dangerous work. It’s no wonder there exists a deficit in the workforce, given these unfavorable stereotypes. Yet, trades and construction jobs offer high salaries, often without the need of taking out student loans. Moreover, these jobs likely won’t be automated in the near future.

The industry’s need to evolve due to the current labor shortage has sparked a need for a shift in its narrative to attract young talent.

Notes

[1] Construction Workforce Shortage Tops Half a Million in 2023, Says ABC