Demand for improved infrastructure is on the rise. In fact, more than 70% of Americans agree increased investment in infrastructure is necessary while three out of four describe the current state of infrastructure as “fair or poor.” President Trump’s $1.7 trillion infrastructure financing plan is yet another example of the desire to see stronger infrastructure across the country.

Considering the support infrastructure spending often receives, it’s no surprise to see continued growth throughout the construction industry. With a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2%, the global construction industry could be valued at $10.5 trillion by 2023. But as more investments start to pour into the industry, construction managers may find themselves a little shorthanded.

According to a recent report, 94% of contractors have a moderate to difficult time finding skilled workers. Construction managers looking to bridge the construction skills gap would be wise to consider technology—specifically telematics. From driving greater efficiency to improving worker safety, telematics has the potential to mitigate some of the challenges that come with the skills gap.

But while 72% of contractors say technology or use of data plays a significant role in their strategic plan or vision, just 5% classify their organization’s technological maturity as “cutting edge.” With more work on the way, it’s time for construction managers to embrace the benefits of telematics technology or risk passing on new projects.

Driving employee engagement

By offering access to equipment data in one central location, telematics minimizes some of the difficulty tied to tracking equipment durability. Instead of paying hefty repair costs when a piece of equipment breaks down, construction managers can leverage available data to sidestep significant problems later on.

If an engine is underperforming, preventative maintenance may be needed to ensure the engine doesn’t break down entirely moving forward. The savings that accompany such precautions can be used to help strengthen recruiting efforts. Whether it’s creating paid advertisements for open positions or improving available benefits, attracting potential candidates could become easier with a bigger budget for recruiting.

Better yet, any additional savings that come from fewer repairs can help improve employee engagement through a wide range of measures—including developing a training program or sponsoring team-building activities.

Meeting demand for increased infrastructure spending is about more than just bringing aboard new hires. Although a few extra employees can help balance the workload, construction managers must also remain conscious of keeping current workers happy.

More than 70% of actively disengaged employees admit to looking for new job opportunities versus just 37% of engaged employees. Given the fact that replacing an employee costs one-third of his or her annual salary, it’s crucial that construction managers take the time to raise engagement among their workers. One way to do just that is by educating employees on new technologies throughout the construction industry. The more opportunities workers have to familiarize themselves with emerging innovations, the more empowered they’ll be to take an active role in their career development.

Improving worker safety

Beyond saving construction managers some cash and keeping employees engaged at work, telematics technology also opens the door for enhanced worker safety. Instead of waiting for equipment to break down, construction managers can reduce repair costs and avoid putting workers in harm’s way. Accidents and subsequent injuries resulting from faulty equipment may soon become a thing of the past.

Similarly, using telematics technology to track each piece of equipment can help construction managers spot potential accidents before they occur. For example, an employee who loses his or her place on a jobsite and enters a restricted area could be in danger. Construction managers that leverage telematics to monitor each piece of equipment have the opportunity to guide any lost workers back to safety.

When it comes to the recruiting process, identifying ways to curb the number of accidents on the job is vital. Each day, workers face the risk of serious injury. Construction managers that provide peace of mind through telematics technology stand to position themselves ahead of the competition and win the attention of qualified candidates.

An infrastructure boom is on the way, and there’s no time to spare for construction managers who want to keep up with the increase in demand. From freeing up resources that can help engage existing employees and attract new ones to creating a safer jobsite, telematics technology is poised to provide construction managers with an easier path to top talent.