An anticipated workforce shortage in the construction industry is prompting concern across the country as projected hiring needs far exceed typical demand levels, but Talent Ready Utah, a state program designed to further education and industry alignment among other economic development ventures, has a plan to bridge the gap in Utah.
According to recent data from Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), an estimated 501,000 additional construction workers will be required in 2024 just to keep pace with national demand. And in 2025, the industry will need nearly 454,000 new hires, assuming a potential slowdown in construction spending.
Utah is facing a similar outsized demand statewide for skilled construction workers, with estimates indicating the need for over 19,000 new hires this year alone, according to Department of Workforce Services projections. This demand is expected to continue in the coming years, driven by the rapid population growth of the state’s towns and cities.
A shortage of this magnitude could have ripple effects across society by delaying projects, driving prices up for both builders and buyers, potential economic slowdowns in affected areas, not to mention safety issues arising without enough skilled workers to build or repair needed infrastructure. The critical questions now being asked are: Where will the needed employees come from, and who will train them to meet industry standards?
With its Utah Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (UEAC) program, Talent Ready Utah is working to help by creating a clear path for individuals to enter the skilled construction trades and partnering with statewide education and industry partners.
Rachelle Ackley, director of K-12 Initiatives for Talent Ready Utah, says the program’s intention is to help connect and foster a bidirectional relationship between high school students who develop a career plan and employers that can help them fulfill that plan, thereby meeting workforce needs of businesses and individuals.
“Within the UAEC program, we rely on industry and the Utah State Board of Education to help build the right training and curriculum to meet industry needs, and we need more industry leaders at the table connecting with students to show them the incredible career opportunities in construction fields,” Ackley said.
The UAEC pathway program is paving the way for high school students interested in construction and related fields by offering a range of courses, including construction management, plumbing, electrical and more. This program equips students with credentials and skills to seamlessly join the workforce upon graduation, setting them on a path toward a successful career. But the UAEC program doesn’t stop there. Talent Ready Utah collaborates with postsecondary partners to provide high school students more opportunities to continue their education and develop skills beyond high school. Expanding these education pathways not only benefits students and supports higher education partners and programs but also ensures that employers have the space and resources to train current employees.
“Our strength lies in our close collaboration with industry and education providers,” said Vic Hockett, associate commissioner of Talent Ready Utah. “By working closely with them, we ensure that our workforce programs are aligned with industry demands, setting us apart in preparing the best workforce for the state.”
Geoff Landward, Utah commissioner of Higher Education, added that the best way for employers to take advantage of the UAEC program is to get involved. “The biggest need in workforce alignment is engagement from our employers. Being responsive to the voice of industry is what Talent Ready Utah was created to do. There are many opportunities for employers to engage with education providers and students to build mutually beneficial talent pipelines.”
Talent Ready Utah meets industry demand through UAEC and many other programs. Its Utah Works Program provides adult learners with fast-track training. The Talent Ready Connections program establishes new apprenticeship programs, and the Talent Ready Apprenticeship Connection Initiative creates youth apprenticeship programs. Talent Ready Utah also works closely with the Talent Board, the Utah Board of Higher Education and the state legislature to create targeted workforce development programs.
Today is the day to get involved and build your talent pipeline.
For information on how to get involved, reach out to Director Rachelle Ackley at rachelle.ackley@ushe.edu or visit talentready.ushe.edu.
