This article first appeared in Building the Southern Tier, the Official Publication of the Builders Exchange of the Southern Tier.
The construction industry has always held a special significance for me. I’ve always had a love for construction, whether that was helping my dad build a new shed in the backyard at an early age or remodeling my current house with the help of friends who work in various positions across the industry. When I started working at The Bonadio Group, I immediately chose the construction industry as my focus for a professional services career and haven’t looked back since.
The construction industry has long struggled with labor shortages, particularly as many experienced workers retire and fewer young people enter the field. Younger individuals who are undecided about a long-term career may view the industry as physically demanding, dirty, and lacking long-term stability. However, as many of you are aware, construction offers stable, well-paying careers with ample room for growth and innovation. Attracting younger generations to the construction industry is key to ensuring the industry’s continued success while meeting the growing demands of infrastructure development, housing, and sustainability. The industry is showing no signs of slowing down, as evidenced by the continuous development across the U.S.
Throughout this article, we’ll explore several strategies to help the construction industry overcome its workforce challenges and build a new generation of skilled professionals.
Rebranding the Construction Industry
The first step in attracting younger talent is to change the narrative surrounding the construction industry. Historically, construction jobs have been associated with manual labor, physical strain, and lack of innovation. However, modern construction is increasingly defined by technology, sustainability, and innovative practices, along with an extremely high standard for safety.
It’s also important to emphasize the career potential in construction. With the proper training and people, young professionals can enjoy lucrative, stable careers with plenty of room for advancement. The construction industry offers more than just physical labor; it provides a path to managerial roles, specialized professions like project management and design, and even entrepreneurship, which may be challenging to realize when you first enter the industry or are planning to apply for a construction-related job.
Emphasizing Construction Training & Apprenticeships
Many young people hesitate to enter the construction industry due to concerns about cost or the need for formal education. Apprenticeship programs are a perfect solution, as they offer the chance to learn on the job while earning a wage. These programs are a win-win, allowing young workers to develop valuable skills without accumulating as much student debt as other industries.
Partnerships between construction companies and educational institutions can help strengthen these apprenticeship programs. By collaborating with local high schools, technical colleges, and universities, the industry can better align its workforce needs with the skills students are learning. Offering pathways for students to earn certifications and industry-recognized credentials can also give them a competitive edge.
Furthermore, the construction industry should actively promote the value of continuing education, whether it’s through advanced certifications, specialized training in emerging technologies, or career development programs. Ensuring that young workers understand the broad scope of career advancement opportunities will help make the industry more attractive.
If you need further guidance or have any questions on this topic, we are here to help. Please do not hesitate to reach out to discuss your specific situation.
This material has been prepared for general, informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Should you require any such advice, please contact us directly. The information contained herein does not create, and your review or use of the information does not constitute an accountant-client relationship.
