The construction industry is rapidly evolving, with skilled-labor shortages being a large pain point for companies across the United States. As the demand for construction and engineering projects continues to rise, qualified skilled trades workers are becoming fewer and farther between.
According to a 2024 study conducted by Associated Builders and Contractors, the industry needs an additional 501,000 workers to meet market demand. Another survey conducted by Associated General Contractors noted that 85% of construction firms report they have open positions they are actively trying to fill.
Following the pandemic, a combination of factors has affected the booming industry’s supply and demand. Projects of a larger scale are continuing to rise, skilled workers are retiring and interest rates for projects and supplies are at a steady high. To mitigate this shortage, companies are looking to students to fill the gap.
Based on a study conducted by the National Student Clearinghouse, from spring 2021 to 2022, enrollment in construction trades courses increased by 19.3%. While there is a growing interest in the construction industry, companies are looking for new and innovative ways to introduce students to a fulfilling career. Increasing awareness and educating young professionals on the benefits of entering the skilled trades is the first step to growing the workforce. By staying ahead of the curve, industry leaders can ensure that interest and enrollment continue to rise.
In addition to filling more jobs, driving students to enter the construction workforce also feeds into the economy. Major metropolitan areas have committed time and money into the continued growth of building and infrastructure projects that will benefit the way people live, work and play. This commitment further underscores the need for more local talent to choose a career in the skilled trades.
A skilled construction workforce is critical to continued economic success. Companies should encourage homegrown talent to see they have a future and clear career path using mentorship programs. Tapping into local schools with programs to fit the industry’s needs, including high schools, colleges and trade schools, is the first step to get involved. Construction and engineering firms can further lean into these programs by implementing the following initiatives.
DISCOVERY DAYS
Hands-on learning opportunities are a fun and innovative way to show your commitment to helping students pursue fulfilling careers in construction. These designated days give students a firsthand look at the industry through various learning opportunities. Hosting students from nearby school districts, neighboring colleges and/or trade schools can help companies find and source local talent. Taking students to active jobsites and providing safety orientations is also a good introduction into the industry.
For example, Skanska hosts Days of Discovery in which students have a chance to experience real-world applications of skills they are currently learning in their construction-based curriculum. To make it an even more memorable event, construction and engineering companies can provide educational gifts such as PPE and branded backpacks.
START SPEAKING
Drive engagement during student-focused events by hosting a panel for students to engage with industry experts. Gathering leaders and employees from various parts of the organization can help provide insight into the many career paths construction offers. Businesses can also highlight success stories, prioritizing employees with unique career trajectories to captivate students’ attention and showcase the potential for success in a growing industry.
When working with students, it is important to introduce individuals from various backgrounds who have excelled in the trade industry. This allows students to see themselves reflected in their potential career paths and feel inspired by role models who share their identities.
Facilitating an interactive question-and-answer session where students can ask questions directly to the professionals encourages further student engagement. Students can inquire about specific projects the professionals have worked on, challenges they’ve faced and how they overcame them. This fosters direct engagement and personalized learning experiences.
CAREER FAIRS
Connect with schools to host trade-focused career fairs where students can interact with professionals across the industry. Setting up a booth and providing information about internship and/or apprenticeship programs, job opportunities and potential career paths can inspire students to consider construction as viable options. During the career fair, develop and facilitate networking sessions where students can interact one-on-one with representatives. This special networking event allows you to encourage students to ask questions, exchange contact information and seek advice. These meaningful connections can open doors to future opportunities for both the students and companies.
JOB SHADOWING
Job shadowing is another great tool to encourage youth to choose construction. Allowing students to shadow on a jobsite for a day, observe daily tasks and ask questions gives them firsthand exposure to the realities of the industry.
A student resource hub is another avenue that can provide students direct access to informational materials, brochures and online resources related to trade careers, apprenticeship programs and vocational training options. Empowering students by offering a variety of tools and resources to take proactive steps toward pursuing careers in construction can only help your organization.
By incorporating a combination of these practices and programs into your company, you can create an immersive experience that not only exposes students to the wide range of opportunities available in the trade, construction and engineering industries, but also provides them with the resources and support they need to start a successful career.
