Labor shortage in the construction industry UK

Health & Safety matters
The construction sector is not a safe one to begin with so following procedures and regulations is crucial. Many see the health risks as a huge factor (especially in the time of pandemic) and don’t want to even consider working in the sector.

Rate of retirement
An increasing number of retiring workers is fueling the labor shortages, meanwhile not enough young candidates are showing up to replace them.

Stability of the sector
Many fear of working in the construction industry because of its instability and prefer to search for a more stable career with a more competitive salary in a less risky environment.

Social image
Unfortunately there still is a perception of construction being a “hard” and “dirty” sector. Moreover studies have shown that 52% of contractors believe that working in the industry is viewed as just a “job” rather than a career.

Educate young minds
By educating younger generations we’re building the future of the industry, and by employing young (sometimes less experienced) workers, we ensure a transition of knowledge and experience between them and the older generations. With constant development of the industry and a digital transformation at hand, we need more and more tech savvy people who will handle technology that is coming to modernise construction. By supporting charities, like f.ex. Construction Youth Trust, that aim to inspire and enable young people to overcome adversity, and discover a career in construction - we are supporting the future of the sector.

Use modern technology
With the current shortage of workers - any help that you can get is greatly appreciated. Technology breakthroughs bring continuous support to all industries. Some companies are still scared of implementing new solutions, viewing it as ‘automation taking away their job’. This couldn't be more wrong! It would be unwise not to use the fruits of modern construction solutions. As we can see with the example exoskeleton’s, technology is here to help workers be more efficient, not replace them.

Encourage female workers
There is a huge potential that comes with empowering women to join construction. Using it can bring fresh perspective to a workplace, and introduce a better, more diverse work environment. Thankfully there are initiatives like KickAss Career that strive to engage, educate, and encourage youth to consider careers in the MITC (Mechanical, Industrial, Technology, and Construction) sectors through school and community outreach. Learn more about the women in construction in our “Empower By Example’’ series.

Automate to boost productivity
There is a huge potential that comes with empowering women to join construction. Using it can bring fresh perspective to a workplace, and introduce a better, more diverse work environment. Thankfully there are initiatives like KickAss Career that strive to engage, educate, and encourage youth to consider careers in the MITC (Mechanical, Industrial, Technology, and Construction) sectors through school and community outreach. Learn more about the women in construction in our “Empower By Example’’ series.