Paving the path for the future construction workforce By Rob Harvey The construction industry is on the cusp of a significant transformation, driven by rapidly advancing technology. However, as innovation accelerates, an aging workforce presents a critical challenge. Constructing more buildings keeps construction inflation under control, but — to build more — the industry needs more workers: around 723,000 per year. With many experienced professionals nearing retirement, a growing labor shortage threatens to stall progress and increase costs. This pressing issue underscores the need for innovative solutions to attract and train the next generation of tech-enabled construction workers. One promising … Read more
SEAA Endorses Policies to Restore America’s Workforce Development System
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – The Steel Erectors Association of America has joined other industry stakeholders in publicly supporting seven policy recommendations to make the United States the world leader in workforce development. RT 335, issued this month, tackles the topic: “Restoring the Dignity of Work: Transforming the U.S. Workforce Development System into a World Leader.” This advocacy document is meant to educate local, state and federal legislators on why reforming our workforce system is critical. It outlines seven policies that can be implemented in less than three years that will positively impact workforce development. The policies are based on three years … Read more
Field Notes: Staying Safe on Sites
By Andy Peters Safety is a top priority in the construction industry. Although many general contractors have made good progress to ensure the safety of all workers at every stage of a project, there are still instances where accidents happen. The Construction Industry Institute’s latest report, “Improving Site Safety Performance through Operational Excellence,” indicates the rate of improvement among industry leaders has slowed down. The Total Recordable Incident Rate for the construction industry shows as flat between 2010 and 2013 (range 4.0-3.8). The CII member companies (a subset of the whole construction industry), has also been essentially flat at .43 … Read more