The construction industry is currently experiencing significant growth. There is a high demand for work in the residential, commercial and industrial sectors. However, there is a substantial shortage of qualified employees to complete this work. Younger generations are not enrolling in skilled trades and older generations looking for a career change often struggle to find quality training.
That’s where formalized training, or apprenticeship programs, can help. Not only do they fill the talent pipeline, but they can improve the bottom line.
Time-proof talent
Millennials were the first generation to dramatically withdraw from the skilled trades. This trend continues as Generation Z begins to enter the workforce. Many adolescents are not introduced to skilled trades in their formal, public education. Or, for those interested, local programs are not available.
Construction firms that start their own apprenticeship programs have the opportunity to craft the next generation of their workforce. Senior employees and management can instill their values, methods and standard of quality in apprentices. Firms also eliminate the cost of post-hire training for new employees, should they offer the apprentice a job.
Moreover, firms that offer apprenticeships or formal training benefit the construction industry as a whole. Even if apprentices are not employed by the firm at which they trained, they bring value to the industry. An influx in reputable, highly skilled workers enhances the quality of all projects and creates a more competitive environment.
Safety first
Young skilled tradesmen have the unique opportunity to learn the highest standards for safety before their career even begins. These individuals will become champions of safe practices for a company, and can enhance its risk management efforts. With the proper training, they not only learn to practice safety in their own work, but have a keen eye for the unsafe behavior of others.
As these individuals continue their career path with an organization, they will be a valuable resource. They can work alongside a carrier, agency and other devoted safety professionals to help identify gaps in current safety standards.
With a strong apprenticeship program, an organization can replace the entire future of its workforce with safety-focused, trained professionals. This decrease in losses can grow the company’s profit, reputation and clientele over time.
Creating the right program
Due to their numerous benefits, construction firms may be eager to start an apprenticeship or formalized training program right away. Keep in mind that each state has its own laws for what constitutes as a verified apprenticeship. These laws must be followed in order for the apprentice to later be certified or employed in the field.
Though there’s no shortage of construction work, contractors across the nation have trouble finding skilled employees. That’s where formalized training, or apprenticeship programs, can help. Not only do they fill the talent pipeline, but they can improve the bottom line.
