FROM UNEMPLOYMENT TO LABOR SHORTAGES: BRINGING PEOPLE INTO CONSTRUCTION

At the very beginning of the pandemic, like many industries, construction saw a large increase in the unemployment rate with skyrocketing numbers that have not been seen in a few years. However, these high rates did not last very long – especially with construction workers being categorized as essential workers. Unemployment rates in construction have returned to their pre-pandemic numbers with a rate as low as 3.7 seen this past June. Currently, a much bigger issue for construction revolves not around those without jobs but rather jobs are now in need of people. With a rise in demand, and a labor force ill-equipped to meet these demands, construction needs people more than ever before. The labor market has become increasingly tight making it harder and harder to find employees for construction jobs. Attracting skilled labor is a current must in the construction industry. The question becomes how do we attract skilled laborers? I would like to suggest two possible ways to help answer this question, starting young and appreciating employees.

In a recent article , I advocated for using similar methodologies when it comes to bringing women into the construction industry and now I will bring them up again in a more general view. I think it is important to start young as it is important to build a future for construction by ensuring that those in the next generation enter the industry. Presenting in careers fairs both in high schools and college is one way to attract younger people. When proposing to students, be sure to point out some of the benefits of construction like paid training, job security, and endless opportunities. When speaking with colleges, point out how different majors may connect to different jobs in the construction industry. Math, physics, communication, and even many liberal arts degrees can benefit from working in construction. Often people have misconstrued ideas of what a construction worker is supposed to look like and what types of jobs they do. By starting young we can help to show people the range of personalities and tasks that fall into the realm of construction.

We cannot take our skilled workers for granted. Many construction companies expect their workers to come in each day for long hours and do not afford these workers the respect and appreciation they deserve. We need to appreciate our skilled workers more and make them feel that they are valuable assets because people – especially now – are indeed assets. Ways to do this include increasing starting salaries, working to create a more positive atmosphere in the workplace, and working with employees to create more flexible schedules. A person does not become skilled in a day, it can take years of learning and experience. When people see that an industry appreciates their worker, that makes the industry a more attractive one to enter.

Construction needs people and we cannot just expect that people will come flocking to the industry if we do not make the necessary changes. While there are many ways to help bring people into the industry; starting young and working on appreciating skilled workers are two good steps to take to start the process. By taking these steps we can help make construction a more attractive industry for young professionals.