The Texas Association of Builders developed this website landing page for its local Home Builders Associations, executive officers and member advocates to use as a blueprint for developing Texas’ construction trades workforce.
Residential Construction – A Professional Career Choice
- The shortage of skilled workers in the building industry is a critical issue. In 2012, 21 percent of home builders experienced a labor shortage. 56 percent of home builders reported a shortage in 2016, and that number grew to 63 percent in 2017
- The residential construction community must become an advocate for its industry by beginning to educate young people – at least as early as the 8th grade – on the professional career opportunities that exist in construction.
- Educators want to be able to direct their students toward meaningful career choices and employment. In Texas, occupations that require an Associate Degree or vocational certificate pay an average of more than $37,000 a year, compared to the average pay of less than $25,000 for those with only a high school diploma or less.
An Aging Workforce and Population Growth
- For every three tradesmen who retire, there is only one skilled person entering the workforce to fill their boots. Our craft professionals – carpenters, plumbers, electricians and masons, for example – are on average 60 years old. As they retire, the home building industry needs skilled workers to take their place.
- 20 percent of skilled workers in the construction industry have retired or left the industry in the last decade.
- With the population of the State of Texas projected to double by 2050, Texas will need thousands of homes to house these residents. And, we need skilled professionals to build these homes.
