Construction employment increased in nearly two out of three U.S. metro areas between November 2020 and November 2021, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America of new government employment data. Association officials said the job gains were welcome news for the industry but cautioned that it will be difficult for construction levels to return to pre-pandemic levels amid tight labor market conditions.
“It isn’t surprising that construction employment has picked up in most metros over the past year, given the strong economic rebound most of the country has experienced,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “But with record job openings in construction, it’s clear that even more metros should be in the plus column if contractors could find the workers they need and get materials delivered on schedule.”
Construction employment increased in 237 or 66% of 358 metro areas over the last 12 months. Sacramento--Roseville--Arden-
Construction employment declined from a year earlier in 74 metros and was flat in 47. Nassau County-Suffolk County, N.Y. lost the most jobs (-6,300 or -8%), followed by Orange-Rockland-Westchester counties, N.Y. (-3,900 jobs, -9%); Calvert-Charles-Prince George’s counties, Md. (-2,700 jobs, -8%); Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, Texas (-2,600 jobs, -1%) and Nashville-Davidson-
Association officials said most construction firms report they are struggling to find enough qualified workers to hire. The officials called on the Biden administration to boost funding for career and technical education to expose more students to construction career opportunities. They noted that federal officials put six dollars into collegiate education and preparation for every dollar they currently invest in career and technical education.
“The gap in federal funding for career and technical education is making it hard for sectors like construction, manufacturing and shipping to find workers interested in those career tracks,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, the association’s chief executive officer. “We are doing everything we can to recruit people into high-paying construction careers but exposing more students to construction skills will certainly help.”
View the metro employment data, rankings, top 10, and new highs and lows.
Related Stories
Market Data | Sep 25, 2020
5 must reads for the AEC industry today: September 25, 2020
AIA releases latest 2030 Commitment results and news delivery robots could generate trillions for U.S. economy.
Market Data | Sep 24, 2020
6 must reads for the AEC industry today: September 24, 2020
SOM's new waterfront neighborhood and a portable restroom designed for mobility.
Market Data | Sep 23, 2020
Architectural billings in August still show little sign of improvement
The pace of decline during August remained at about the same level as in July and June.
Market Data | Sep 23, 2020
7 must reads for the AEC industry today: September 23, 2020
The new Theodore Presidential Library and the AIA/HUD's Secretary's Awards honor affordable, accessible housing.
Market Data | Sep 22, 2020
6 must reads for the AEC industry today: September 22, 2020
Construction employment declined in 39 states and no ease of lumber prices in sight.
Market Data | Sep 21, 2020
Washington is the US state with the most value of construction projects underway, says GlobalData
Of the top 10 largest projects in the Washington state, nine were in the execution stage as of August 2020.
Market Data | Sep 21, 2020
Construction employment declined in 39 states between August 2019 and 2020
31 states and DC added jobs between July and August.
Market Data | Sep 21, 2020
6 must reads for the AEC industry today: September 21, 2020
Four projects receive 202 AIA/ALA Library Building Award and Port San Antonio's new Innovation Center.
Market Data | Sep 18, 2020
Follow up survey of U.S. code officials demonstrates importance of continued investment in virtual capabilities
Existing needs highlight why supporting building and fire prevention departments at the federal, state, and local levels is critical.
Market Data | Sep 18, 2020
6 must reads for the AEC industry today: September 18, 2020
Sagrada Familia completion date pushed back and energy code appeals could hamper efficiency progress.