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Over the past decade, there has been a massive decrease in the number of individuals pursuing careers in construction trades such as carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work. In fact, a report by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) revealed that 80% of construction companies are struggling to find qualified workers to fill open positions.
Several factors have contributed to this decline. One primary issue is the perception of construction work among younger generations. Many young people today are opting for college education and white-collar careers, often overlooking the lucrative opportunities available in the skilled trades. There's a prevailing stigma that manual labor jobs are less prestigious or financially rewarding, despite the potential for high salaries and job security in the construction industry.
In this week's podcast, hosts Will and Dillon sit down with Terry Clinefelter, Department Head for Construction Technologies at Oklahoma State University (OSU-OKC) to discuss reviving the next generation in construction.
Looking for some ways to inspire the next generation into working in construction? Here's our top 5!
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Interactive Workshops and Demonstrations: Organize interactive workshops and demonstrations in schools and community centers to showcase the exciting aspects of construction trades. Invite industry professionals to demonstrate hands-on activities like carpentry, masonry, or electrical work, allowing young people to experience the satisfaction of creating something tangible with their own hands.
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Career Fairs and Expos: Host career fairs and expos focused specifically on construction careers, where young people can explore various job opportunities, speak with professionals in the field, and learn about apprenticeship programs and educational pathways. Provide informational booths, interactive displays, and even virtual reality simulations to give attendees a glimpse into the diverse roles within the industry.
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Partnerships with Schools and Vocational Programs: Forge partnerships with schools, vocational training programs, and youth organizations to integrate construction-related curriculum and hands-on learning experiences into their offerings. Offer guest lectures, mentorship programs, and internship opportunities to expose students to the real-world applications of construction skills and technologies.
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Promotion of Success Stories and Role Models: Highlight success stories and role models from within the construction industry to inspire young people and dispel misconceptions about construction careers. Feature profiles of young apprentices who have achieved success in their respective trades, showcasing their career trajectories, accomplishments, and the opportunities available for advancement within the industry.
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Scholarships and Financial Incentives: Offer scholarships, grants, and financial incentives to encourage young people to pursue education and training in construction trades. Partner with industry organizations, businesses, and government agencies to establish scholarship programs specifically targeted towards aspiring construction professionals, providing financial support to offset the costs of education and training. Additionally, offer incentives such as signing bonuses or tuition reimbursement for individuals who commit to entering the construction workforce upon completing their training programs.
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