How to Attract the Next Generation of Construction Workers

The State of the Construction Industry

During the core of the Great Recession, the Construction Industry employment dropped by 2.3 million1 showing the biggest percent decline in a non-farm industry. Many laborers were forced out and had to find work where they could. Fast forward eight years, and the industry is back on its feet, but all of the workers are well into new careers in various industries. Now that the Baby Boomers are ready to retire, the industry will have to look to the Millennials to fill that gap.

By 2025, Millennials will make up 75% of the United States workforce. However, only 7% of young adult respondents were interested in obtaining a job in construction, retail or manufacturing2. With the construction industry facing a worker shortage, a 7% interest is not nearly enough to fill all of the open positions. The industry as a whole needs to work together to find a way to attract new hires.

What Millennials Look for in a Career

Raised in the technology age, Millennials depend on it being readily available to them. They spend time researching technology because they want to complete tasks in the fastest way possible. They enjoy bringing ideas and technology into their workplace. Results drive them, and they measure success by how much gets done, rather than hours punched. They want to feel like they accomplished something, not just punching a clock. Millennials prefer meaningful work which suggests they want to feel connected and included.

They also want flexible work schedules and career opportunities. A place that allows them to move higher up into the company and one where they can obtain leadership positions. Most want a job where they have a variety of opportunities in their career. Construction trades offer the most diverse career opportunities. There are many opportunities to move up into leadership roles and advance throughout their company.

Not your Parents Construction Industry

The industry has experienced a lot of changes in the last 25 years. Millennials may not be interested in the construction industry due to misconceptions from what they have heard from their parents or grandparents. Five major changes in the construction industry are;

  1. Technology: Job sites now utilize smartphones, drones, 3D printing and other various technologies. Workers can successfully operate technology worth thousands of dollars.
  2. Safety Regulations: Safety is regarded in a much higher standard now. Stricter protocols and guidelines are protecting not only the safety and health of the employee but also the customer. There is much more supervision over safety to help keep the workers away from danger.
  3. Demand: Currently there is a high demand for construction workers, and the shortage gap is only getting bigger. With technology advancing at a rapid rate it has caused consumers to get bored and look for the next greatest thing. People want the newest homes, cars and technology. The construction industry can reap the benefits of consumers desiring this lifestyle.
  4. Training: There is a higher value on training and qualifications, more so now than ever before. Training keeps them in line with technology and safety. Now that the construction industry has become a recognized skill, it puts more demand on training employees.
  5. Culture: Culture is crucial to the viability and profitability of successful businesses. It also is imperative to employees. People want to work for a place that treats them with respect and consideration. The construction industry has a bad rep of treating their employees poorly. Our businesses should create an environment that is empowering and productive to our employees.