Survey: 48% Of U.S. Contractors Say Training The Next Generation Of Workers Is The Industry's Most Critical Need

A survey done to assess the state of the U.S construction industry released a report indicating that 48% of contractors perceive training the next generation as the industry's most crucial need. The gap in skills between younger and older generations resulted in the older workforce's retirement without adequately transferring the skills needed to maintain the industry's sustainability. To combat this challenge, young professionals need to gain practical experience before taking senior roles. The industry embraces and encourages fresh faces, and schools have to enhance their vocational programs to suit the changing industry. In conclusion, there's an imminent need to pass the baton in the construction industry, and the younger professionals need to receive the right training and guidance to ensure a bright future.

Since 2019, 56% of contractors have been working more hours. Mechanical (68%), plumbing (66%), and electrical (60%) contractors have been more likely to have seen an increase in labor hours. Almost 40% say longer hours have made their jobs more difficult, and 39% have found that the importance of employee mental health and well-being is a key takeaway from the pandemic.

Ninety-three percent of respondents say that the need for skilled workers has had at least a minor impact on their current work. Those contractors share that the primary causes for the labor shortage is lack of awareness around construction career paths (50%), outside influences that push younger people away from the industry (47%), and underestimation of how much money can be earned in construction (41%).

Regardless of contractor level, tenure, or type, 67% of U.S. contractors report that mentorship programs and educational opportunities in the trades are extremely important, and 53% agree that mentorship increases excitement about construction as a career path. Experienced contractors of 20 or more years are committed to training the next generation, with 63% saying it’s a paramount goal for the future.

“The DeWalt Powering the Future survey sheds further light on the wide-reaching gap in skilled labor and its continued impact on the residential and commercial construction industries. Add to that the overwhelming demand for trades expertise during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the [skilled-labor] gap is quickly becoming the most critical need that will dictate the future success of the field,” says Allison Nicolaidis, president, Power Tools Group, Stanley Black Decker.

“That’s why DeWalt is committed to putting a heavier spotlight on these challenges and taking a lead role in supporting our industrial and construction partners to overcome them. DeWalt will further its commitment to closing the skills deficit with the launch of the DeWalt Trade Scholarship to support trades education programs for students across the country.”

The DeWalt Trades Scholarship, which awards a $5,000 grant in pursuance of a skilled trade educational program for the 2023-2024 academic year, is available to eligible high school seniors, graduates, or current undergraduate students majoring in a degree/certificate program such as trade construction, motor/power specializations, mechanics, or technology.