In the face of critical workforce shortages affecting the road construction industry, civil construction companies must adopt a proactive approach to secure a talented and skilled workforce for the future.
By investing in school curriculums and providing more opportunities for high school students to explore road construction, decision-makers at civil construction companies can create a talent pipeline that addresses the current shortage and helps prepare for the future.
In this blog, we explore the importance of a proactive approach and how it can attract, inspire, and recruit the next generation of road construction professionals.
Addressing the Workforce Shortage
The road construction industry is dealing with a severe workforce shortage, with a rapidly aging workforce and fewer young professionals entering the field. To combat this challenge, construction companies must take action now to build a steady talent pipeline from high school students. Waiting for the problem to get worse will only make the issue more apparent, leading to project delays, increased costs, and compromised quality.
Ways Construction Companies Can Take Action
Inspiring Interest Through Educational Initiatives
One of the best ways construction companies can proactively attract young talent is by influencing their local school’s curriculums to incorporate road construction education.
By working with educational institutions, companies can advocate for courses and programs that expose students to the industry’s vast opportunities. These initiatives could include:
- Organizing career talks and workshops by industry experts to inspire students.
- Supporting hands-on activities and construction-related projects to spark interest.
- Encourage your school to participate in the Civil Construction Pathway. A curriculum designed to provide students with the necessary introduction and training to a career in civil construction.
Providing Internships and Work Experience
Offering internships and work experience opportunities to high school students is a powerful way to showcase the exciting and rewarding aspects of road construction. While also helping construction companies get to know their future workforce.
These firsthand experiences provide students with valuable insights into the industry’s day-to-day operations, helping to create a passion for the field and opening their minds to what civil construction is.
Partnering with High Schools & Vocational Programs
Collaborating with schools and vocational programs is instrumental in creating a sustainable talent pipeline. Construction companies can create partnerships to support vocational training programs focusing on road construction. These partnerships can involve:
– Providing financial assistance or scholarships for students pursuing road construction education.
– Donating equipment, tools, and resources to enhance practical training opportunities.
– Offering mentorship programs that connect students with industry professionals.
Raising Awareness Through Community Engagement
Construction companies can take a proactive stance by building relationships with local communities and schools.
Participation in career fairs, community events, and school initiatives can create awareness about the road construction industry and its career prospects.
Building strong relationships with educators, students, and parents fosters a positive perception of the industry and its potential for growth.
Check out how Brooks Construction was able to partner with Garret High School to create an awesome event to help kids get interested in construction and connect with companies!
Coming Together to Build a Brighter Future
With the workforce shortage not going anywhere, construction companies must recognize the urgency of creating a talent pipeline from high school students interested in road construction.
By adopting a proactive approach and investing in school curriculums, providing opportunities for hands-on experiences. While partnering with educational institutions, decision-makers can inspire, attract, and recruit the next generation of road construction professionals.
The time to act is now. Construction business leaders have a unique opportunity to shape the future of the industry by investing in young minds and igniting a passion for road construction when the economy needs it the most.
Let’s come together and build a brighter future, one student at a time.