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Jersen Construction Self Performing General Contractor

Why Albany Construction Firms Are Looking to Hire

Construction worker cuts rebar on site.
Jersen Construction worker Toby Adair cuts pieces of rebar for concrete molds as work on the sidewalk and entrance way in front of the Schenectady County Public Library on Liberty Street. Credit: Peter R. Barber

Albany Construction firms are looking for skilled labor and it seems harder to come by these days. But why?

According to Construction Dive, one of the biggest challenges to construction firms is a skilled labor shortage.

This trend is lingering after a huge chunk of the construction workforce were forced to leave the industry for other jobs during the recession when their work disappeared. Between April 2006 and January 2011, the construction industry eliminated more than 40% of its work force, cutting nearly 2.3 million jobs. Unfortunately, a significant portion of those workers haven’t returned.

A lack of technical training in schools and less emphasis on the trades are also contributing to a smaller pool of workers entering the industry. Combined with an aging workforce, those factors are creating a struggle for construction firms seeking employees for positions ranging from skilled trades to managerial roles.

Although the shortage for Albany construction firms can be seen as a large problem – it is also a tremendous opportunity. Younger workers can start to train for these jobs as they enter their teens and twenties.

Organizations like I Build America are leading the way in helping young people find their life’s work in the construction industry. The site is packed with information about apprenticeships, high school programs, technical and community colleges, as well as college and university programs aimed at educating our youth about all of the opportunities available.

What’s most important? If you have passion and dedication to your work, if you are responsible, honest and have some experience – then construction could be the best move you can make to improve your future.

Did you know? The Associated General Contractors Education and Research Foundation offers workforce development scholarships to students enrolled in accredited technical schools or craft training programs in any discipline in construction. For more information, visit https://app.wizehive.com/appform/login/AGCTrade2017?platform=hootsuite.

Interested in a career in construction? Contact us today.

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