1. Introduction

The construction industry is one of the largest and fastest-growing industries in the world. As the demand for construction projects continues to increase, finding qualified workers has become a major challenge for construction companies. In this article, we will examine the challenges of finding qualified workers in the construction industry and some potential solutions.

The construction industry is experiencing a boom in demand due to the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions and the need for new housing. However, there is a significant shortage of skilled workers, with over 30,000 job vacancies in the sector. The shortage has been exacerbated by the pandemic, which caused many workers to return to their home countries during lockdowns and Brexit, which led to uncertainty for migrant workers. As a result, employers are struggling to find qualified candidates to help meet the growing demand for new buildings.

Although the construction industry has seen the highest annual rate of pay growth compared to other industries, job vacancies are still not being filled. This issue is of great concern to the construction sector as it may struggle to deliver projects or achieve targets. Additionally, the shortage of available candidates may lead to smaller businesses falling behind in the competitive climate.

The industry also faces a lack of diversity, with over 20% of employees in their fifties and only 14% being female. As this aging workforce is set to retire in the coming years, companies should be targeting younger audiences and women when searching for new recruits. To ensure job vacancies are filled, organizations need to ensure their job advertisements are effective and that they offer training and development programs to attract and retain skilled workers

1.1 Challenges of Finding Qualified Workers

Labor Shortage: One of the biggest challenges facing the construction industry is the labor shortage. According to the National Association of Home Builders, 82% of builders reported a shortage of workers in 2021. This shortage is due to a combination of factors, including an aging workforce, fewer people entering the trades, and a lack of interest in construction careers.

Skill Gap: Even when there are available workers, there is often a mismatch between the skills required for the job and the skills of the available workers. This skill gap can be attributed to the changing nature of construction technology and the lack of formal training programs for construction workers.

Competition: The competition for qualified workers is intense in the construction industry. Construction companies are competing with each other, as well as other industries, for the same pool of workers.

1.2 Solutions for Finding Qualified Workers

- Recruitment and Training Programs: 

One solution to finding qualified workers is to invest in recruitment and training programs. These programs can include apprenticeships, internships, partnerships with local schools, and vocational training programs. By investing in these programs, construction companies can build a pipeline of qualified workers and provide them with the necessary training to succeed in the industry.

- Technology: 

Technology can also play a key role in finding qualified workers. Construction companies can use job boards, social media, and other online resources to reach a wider pool of potential candidates. In addition, technology can be used to provide training and education to workers, helping to close the skill gap and improve worker retention.

- Competitive Compensation and Benefits: 

To attract and retain qualified workers, construction companies must offer competitive compensation and benefits packages. This can include higher wages, flexible scheduling, and health insurance, among other benefits.

- Diversity and Inclusion: 

Improving diversity and inclusion in the construction industry can also help to attract a wider pool of qualified workers. By creating a welcoming and inclusive work environment, construction companies can attract and retain workers from diverse backgrounds.

1.3 Conclusion

In conclusion, finding qualified workers in the construction industry is a complex challenge. The labor shortage, skill gap, and competition for workers all contribute to the difficulty of finding and retaining qualified workers. However, by investing in recruitment and training programs, leveraging technology, offering competitive compensation and benefits, and improving diversity and inclusion, construction companies can overcome these challenges and build a talented and diverse workforce.

Ref:

1). D Makhene and WD Thwala (2009), SKILLED LABOUR SHORTAGES IN CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTORS: A LITERATURE REVIEW, CIDB PAPER 25, Available at < https://ujcontent.uj.ac.za/esploro/fulltext/journalArticle/Skilled-labour-shortages-in-construction-contractors/9913770407691?repId=125375150007691&mId=136337430007691&institution=27UOJ_INST > [Accessed on 21^st April 2023]

2). News & Articles (2022), the Impact of Brexit on the Construction Industry, London Belgravia Brokers Ltd [online] Available at < https://buildsafe.co.uk/the-impact-of-brexit-on-the-construction-industry > [Accessed on 21^st April 2023]