The construction sector continues to grapple with workforce shortages, despite a significant number of unemployed individuals. One key challenge lies in identifying and attracting the right talent. Industry veteran Dr. Larry Kokkelenberg, who spoke at the 2023 CONEXPO event, offers valuable advice on how employers can navigate this complex landscape.

Dr. Kokkelenberg emphasized that recruiting and retaining skilled workers is not just about filling positions but ensuring long-term stability. High turnover rates, increased job seeker expectations, and persistent labor shortages are putting immense pressure on employers to meet project deadlines with limited resources. To combat these issues, Dr. Kokkelenberg suggests focusing on identifying the characteristics and habits of successful employees. This approach allows companies to develop a framework for interviewing and selecting candidates who possess the necessary technical skills, safety competencies, and teamwork mindset. By hiring the right people, organizations can reduce turnover and encourage existing employees to recommend quality candidates from their networks.

Beyond recruitment, proactive outreach and continuous training are crucial for building a resilient workforce. Initiatives such as summer internships, partnerships with educational institutions, and collaborations with government agencies can help create pipelines of qualified workers. Digital platforms, local job fairs, and community partnerships also play an essential role in finding top talent. According to recent data, the construction industry faced significant labor shortages in 2024, with nearly 288,000 open positions and a high demand for skilled labor. In response, many companies have increased spending on training and development while raising pay rates to attract and retain workers.

Employee retention hinges on employer accountability. Offering competitive salaries, promoting work-life balance, ensuring job security, and providing leadership opportunities are vital for keeping employees engaged. Training programs that go beyond basic requirements demonstrate that the company values its workforce and sees them as part of its future. Continuous recruitment efforts, even when all positions are filled, prepare companies for unexpected turnover and ensure a stable workforce. Ultimately, the right strategies can transform the construction industry's workforce challenges into opportunities for long-term success and growth.