News Summary
The construction sector is grappling with a major workforce crisis, with over 40% of its employees anticipated to retire by 2031. Despite the industry’s essential role in developing infrastructure and housing, only 3% of young individuals express interest in construction careers. Companies like Taylor Morrison are addressing this issue by offering internships and hands-on training opportunities to engage potential workers early. Initiatives such as the Lowe’s Foundation’s Gable Grants aim to boost skilled labor development within community colleges, striving to fill the growing gap in the workforce as baby boomers retire.
Mooresville – The construction industry is facing a significant workforce crisis, with over 40% of its current workforce expected to retire by 2031. Simultaneously, interest in construction careers among young individuals remains alarmingly low, with only 3% expressing a desire to pursue jobs in this sector, as reported by the Building Talent Foundation. This troubling trend poses substantial challenges for the future of construction, which is essential for building homes, infrastructure, and communities.
Owen Ramsey, a construction management major at Purdue University, illustrates the potential for engagement in the field through his internship with Taylor Morrison in Mooresville. Starting his internship in June with limited knowledge of the construction process, Ramsey has rapidly acquired hands-on experience, gaining comprehensive insight from pouring the foundation slab to the moment keys are handed to new homeowners. His positive experience highlights a growing need for practical training to entice young workers into the industry.
Gary Guess, Senior Superintendent at Taylor Morrison, underlines the necessity for hands-on experience to spark interest among youth. He acknowledges that many individuals today are less inclined toward labor-intensive jobs, prompting the company to seek ways to engage young people early in their career journeys. As an increasing number of baby boomers near retirement, the shortfall of skilled labor is becoming more pronounced.
Research conducted by ADP indicates a broader trend among millennials and Gen Zers, who often prefer non-labor jobs, further deepening the dilemma for the construction sector. Ramsey, influenced by a family background in construction, showcases a commitment to outdoor work, portraying a contrast to many young individuals who shy away from similar paths. He is part of a larger initiative at Taylor Morrison, which includes 60 interns nationwide, aimed at creating a talent pipeline for the future workforce.
To address the labor shortage in the construction industry, organizations are initiating programs to attract young workers. Recently, the Lowe’s Foundation launched 12 new Gable Grants for community colleges, aimed at combating the shortage of skilled trades workers. The Gable Grants program is projected to establish pathways for 50,000 trades professionals over the next five years, reflecting a concerted effort to bolster workforce development.
The National Association of Homebuilders reports that the gap in skilled labor results in an estimated $10 billion annual economic loss within the housing sector. Recognizing this urgent issue, the Lowe’s Foundation has invested $43 million in programs across 28 states since the Gable Grants program’s inception in 2023. Notable recipients of these grants include Ivy Tech Community College, which plans to develop a new Building and Property Maintenance Technician program and an expanded HVAC training course. Similarly, Blue Ridge Community College and Palm Beach State College will enhance their trades programs to meet growing workforce demands.
In addition to supporting educational programs, financial backing is also being allocated to community development initiatives. The Iredell County Economic Development Corporation Foundation recently received a $750,000 grant for the Herring Industrial Boulevard extension project in the Mooresville Business Park East area. This extension will support local job creation and business investment by developing an additional 500 linear feet of roadway. Mooresville Business Park East is part of a broader developmental plan encompassing 1,200 acres and currently serves as the base for 24 companies providing 4,000 jobs.
As the construction workforce continues to age and the interest among the younger population remains minimal, efforts to engage and train the next generation of workers are crucial for the sustainability and growth of this essential industry.
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Additional Resources
- WRTV: Internship Programs Aim to Bridge the Gap
- Wikipedia: Construction Industry
- Charlotte Observer: Real Estate News
- Google Search: Construction Workforce Shortage
- Woodworking Network: Lowe’s Foundation Gable Grants
- Google Scholar: Workforce Development in Construction
- WCNC: Unfinished Homes Disrupt Plans
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Construction Industry Workforce
- Iredell Free News: 750K Grant for Road Improvements
- Google News: Construction Internships
Author: STAFF HERE CLEVELAND WRITER
CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER The CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECleveland.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cleveland International Film Festival, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, and the Cleveland Air Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Cleveland Partnership and Destination Cleveland, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Cleveland Clinic and Sherwin-Williams. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Ohio's dynamic landscape.
