With an ever-growing population, there’s an increased demand nationwide for infrastructure, and in turn, construction work. Construction jobs are considered essential employment, and there are numerous jobs that fall under the umbrella of construction.
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Demand for Construction Work
Overall, the job market for construction workers in 2024 is fairly strong, with many positions being in demand. However, the industry is facing its challenges due to a shortage of qualified skilled labor. There are less people pursuing construction jobs than in previous years, making for higher market demand. This demand is also being driven by major infrastructural projects and real estate development across the country.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, it is expected that over the next decade, there will be about 663,500 new job openings in the construction industry each year, on average. In addition to increasing construction projects, this growing demand can also be attributed to the number of construction workers retiring from their positions, and the need for new workers to take their place.
If you’re considering entering the industry, this predicted market demand indicates promising stability for future construction workers.
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What Jobs Are There in Construction?
The many specialized skills construction involves necessitate a wide range of skilled trades workers in the talent pool. Some tradespeople may be contracted by a construction company. Whereas other tradespeople might work full time for a construction company.
There are many skilled trade jobs that are involved in construction. Some construction-related trades include: carpentry, roadway maintenance, architecture, electrical, metal working, plumbing, masonry, and roofing, among many others. If you’re a skilled trades worker, it is very likely that there is a need for you in construction.
Women in Construction
In recent years, there has been an increase in the employment of women in construction. From contract positions, to management roles, women construction workers have taken a once male-dominated industry by storm.
While the industry still has significantly more male workers than female, a 2023 report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that more women are entering the industry than ever before. In 2023, nearly 11 percent of construction workers were female. Women in the industry continue to thrive despite wage gaps and other obstacles. There are certain organizations that offer support to women in construction to ensure a thriving career, such as certain labor unions.
Green Construction Projects and Sustainability
Due to certain regulations and eco-friendly initiatives, there has been a significant need for greener initiatives and sustainable practices in construction. Corporate responsibility has a large role in this. Many of the steps being taken involve recycled materials, along with energy and waste reduction.
Companies have prioritized the use of more sustainable building materials like recycled steel and low-carbon concrete. In many of these instances, architects, electricians, engineers, and HVAC professionals, will be needed to implement highly energy efficient designs that reduce a project’s carbon footprint.
Other clean energy practices will involve solar panels, efficient climate control methods, ground-mounted solar panels, and (wherever feasible) electric energy systems over gas-powered ones.
Rising Material Costs
The fluctuating cost of certain materials has been an emerging challenge that construction companies have faced. Many of the essential materials for construction such as steel, lumber, concrete, wood, stone, etc. have been subject to inflation. In many instances, this can be attributed to global supply chain disruptions. In addition, some greener materials, while better for sustainability, can also be more expensive than other, less efficient ones.
Many companies have attempted to mitigate higher material costs by turning to alternative materials. In many instances, this is where recycled materials and local sourcing have come into play.
Recent tariffs have also affected the industry. These tariffs on imported materials like steel and aluminum are driving up construction costs, putting pressure on project budgets and timelines. As material prices rise, some companies are delaying or scaling back projects, which can slow job growth and hiring in the construction industry.
Improved Safety and Well-Being
Some protocols, partly implemented during the 2020 pandemic, have significantly enhanced safety practices. In addition, some construction companies have begun prioritizing the emotional well being of construction workers in ways that were unheard of a couple of decades ago. Some construction unions may even offer mental health resources for their members.
In recent years, many companies have initiated the use of wearable technology across worksites. This technology can monitor the safety and health of employees. Wearable technology includes smart helmets, vests, and wristbands that can sensor vital signs like heart rate and body temperature to prevent accidents related to overexertion.
Other wearables feature fall detection technology that can trigger certain alerts; this could be an alert for employees getting too close to a ledge, or an alert for a supervisor in the event of a fall or accident.
Smart Technology Integration
Smart infrastructure has become less of an added feature, and more of a necessity for buildings, homes, and businesses. Cities specifically have embraced construction projects that incorporate smart technology. This technology can enhance sustainability by reducing energy consumption and allowing for more efficient operations overall.
Some key tradespeople involved with installing smart technology include electricians, low-voltage electricians, HVAC technicians, and IT network specialists. These professionals might work on a single project, or collaborate with fellow tradespeople on different smart-system initiatives to ensure the secure and successful installation of these modern building systems.
Trends in Construction: A Conclusion
Although construction is a trade as old as time, industry trends, the job market, and certain initiatives continue to evolve over the years. We’ve covered just some of the emerging trends in the modern construction job market.
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