Although the number of construction jobs rose last month to the highest level in the past decade, a shortage of qualified workers likely limited the number of new jobs, according to the Associated General Contractors of America.
The AGC and other trade groups urged Congress and the Trump administration to increase funding and provide more flexibility for the Perkins Act, which provides federal funds for career and technical education. They also made a plea for state and local leaders to make it easier for construction firms and local associations to set up regional recruiting and training programs.
Construction labor shortages are worsening in many parts of the country after years of under-investment in career and technical education programs, according to industry groups. Construction employment reached 6,877,000 in April, up 5,000 from March, and up 173,000 or 2.6% from a year ago.
The year-over-year growth rate almost doubled the 1.6% increase in total nonfarm payroll employment, according to an AGC economist.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Aug 17, 2018
Zoning changes can be crucial to filling large, empty retail spaces
Alternative uses often require action by local officials.
Codes and Standards | Aug 16, 2018
Nearly a quarter of opioid overdose deaths attributable to construction workers
Massachusetts public health study finds pressure to work in pain contributes to problem.
Codes and Standards | Aug 15, 2018
ICC creates new committee on building safety and security
Will include experts from many different disciplines.
Codes and Standards | Aug 14, 2018
Philadelphia adopts 2018 IECC energy code, while state opts for 2015 code
City is one of the first jurisdictions to adopt newest code.
Codes and Standards | Aug 9, 2018
Denver’s goal of 100% renewable energy by 2030 includes net zero energy buildings
Community solar programs for low income residents part of plan.
Codes and Standards | Aug 8, 2018
Too much parking in U.S. cities proving costly
As car ownership rates drop, excess parking seems more wasteful.
Codes and Standards | Aug 7, 2018
International Fire Safety Standards (IFSS) Coalition created
Professional associations and building standards organizations join forces.
Codes and Standards | Jul 31, 2018
Workers allegedly held in captivity by construction subcontractor in San Jose pay theft case
Contractor pays $250,000 in back wages in Dept. of Labor enforcement action.
Codes and Standards | Jul 17, 2018
Heat island effect can turn deadly in extreme conditions
Of all the impacts of global climate change, it’s extreme heat that kills more Americans each year than any other weather-related event.
Codes and Standards | Jul 17, 2018
NIMBYism, generational divide threaten plan for net-zero village in St. Paul, Minn.
The ambitious redevelopment proposal for a former Ford automotive plant creates tension.
