The colossal structures and sprawling facilities that define heavy industrial construction – power plants, refineries, chemical plants, manufacturing facilities – are more than just steel and concrete. They represent the culmination of meticulous planning, innovative engineering, and the skill and dedication of a specialized workforce. At the heart of this vital sector lie the skilled trades, a diverse group of professionals whose expertise breathes life into complex industrial projects.
Heavy industrial construction projects are intricate undertakings. They involve the construction, assembly, and installation of massive equipment, intricate piping systems, and robust electrical networks, all while adhering to stringent safety protocols. This level of complexity demands a workforce that possesses not just technical knowledge but also the hands-on experience and critical thinking necessary to translate blueprints into reality.
Industrial Project Outlook
The current outlook for heavy industry construction is positive, brimming with opportunity and challenges. Government infrastructure investment is driving heavy construction. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) is expected to continue fueling projects in transportation, broadband, climate, and energy. Deloitte estimates around $58.8 billion earmarked for these projects in 2024. In addition, both IIJA and the CHIPS Act are funding manufacturing facilities with over $200 billion being allocated. Overall, construction spending is expected to grow by 2% in 2024.
Challenges
While opportunities are abundant, there are challenges contractors are facing. Material costs have been on the rise since COVID and have proven to temper demand. While some prices have plateaued, others are still rising, impacting project feasibility. Economic uncertainty with rising interest rates and potential economic slowdown could dampen investor confidence and lead to project delays and cancellations. A well-documented labor shortage also plagues the construction industry, resulting in delays. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Commercial Construction Index (CCI), 92% of contractors report moderate to high levels of difficulty finding skilled workers— and 42% of those contractors reported turning down work due to skilled labor shortages.
The Need for Skilled Trades in Heavy Industrial Construction
Skilled trades are the backbone of this industry. From ironworkers erecting the skeletal framework to electricians intricate wiring, every craft is essential to project success. Roles spanning from Construction Managers to Welders and Pipefitters demand a diverse range of specialized skills, all critical to the building process.
In addition to skilled trades and management personnel, Operations & Maintenance Staffing Support plays a crucial role once the facility is operational. This involves filling positions like Plant Managers, Maintenance Managers, Control Room Operators, Plant Maintenance Technicians, and Operations Managers.
These are just a few examples, and the specific skillsets required will vary depending on the project. However, the underlying need for a highly skilled and experienced workforce remains constant.
The Looming Skill Gap: A Challenge for the Industry
Despite the critical role skilled trades play in heavy industrial construction, the industry faces a significant skill gap. Here are some contributing factors:
- An Aging Workforce: The baby boomer generation, which formed a large portion of the skilled trades workforce, is now nearing retirement age. This creates a significant gap in experience and expertise.
- Shifting Perceptions: Construction careers are often perceived as physically demanding and lacking career progression opportunities. This perception discourages younger generations from entering skilled craft trades.
- Lack of Training Programs: Apprenticeship programs, once a cornerstone of skilled craft development, have declined in recent years. This leaves fewer opportunities for individuals to acquire the necessary skills and certifications.
The consequences of this skill gap are far-reaching. It can lead to project delays, increased costs, and safety concerns. To maintain efficiency and competitiveness, the industry needs to find solutions to bridge this gap.
Building the Future Workforce
To bridge the skill gap and ensure a bright future for heavy construction, several initiatives are gaining momentum:
- Promoting Skilled Trades: Educational institutions and industry associations are working together to showcase the rewarding careers in skilled crafts. Highlighting competitive wages, strong job security, and opportunities for professional development is key.
- Apprenticeship Programs: These programs connect aspiring workers with experienced craftspeople who provide on-the-job training alongside classroom learning. This practical approach equips new workers with essential skills.
- Upskilling and Reskilling Programs: As technology evolves, existing workers need opportunities to develop their skillsets and adapt to new tools and techniques.
- Skilled Trades Staffing Companies: Partnering with industry- specific staffing companies can offer comprehensive solutions for skilled manpower needs, providing immediate access to a vast network of experienced skilled trades professionals to tackle demanding projects or staff fluctuations.
Filling the Void: Skilled Trades Staffing Companies
Skilled trade staffing companies can provide Construction Staffing Support (CSS) and can play a vital role in addressing the skilled craft shortage. Here’s how:
- Deep Industry Knowledge: Staffing companies who specialize in heavy industrial construction, understand the specific skillsets required for various projects.
- Extensive Employee Networks: They have built relationships with skilled trade workers across different disciplines, creating a readily available pool of qualified employees.
- Streamlined Recruitment: By handling the recruitment process, staffing companies save contractors valuable time and resources, allowing them to focus on project execution.
- Custom Staffing Solutions: They can provide custom staffing solutions tailored to manpower needs. From project-based staffing to supplying occasional labor for a long-term strategic partnership, they have the resources to meet staffing requirements.
By leveraging the expertise of a skilled trades staffing company, heavy industrial construction firms can access a broader pool of qualified skilled craftspeople, helping to bridge the skill gap and ensure the continued success of their projects.
Building Relationships for Success
At APS Solutions, we recognize skilled trades are the foundation upon which the impressive structures of heavy industrial construction are built. Recognizing their value, addressing the skill gap, and fostering a collaborative approach are crucial to ensuring the continued success, efficiency, and safety of the projects that power our lives. We are dedicated to supporting the industry and believe the true path to success isn’t paved alone, it’s built together. We don’t just provide skilled trades workers, we build lasting relationships with our clients and employees.
For over 25 years, we’ve cultivated strong employee relationships, enabling us to attract, grow, and retain top talent. This allows us to consistently staff projects with industry professionals. Our employee focus is our client’s project advantage. By promoting skilled trades, investing in training, and fostering collaboration, we can build a future workforce that is strong, skilled, and ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
Get started today with APS Solutions
Construction Staffing Support
Construction Manager
Site Engineer
Safety Manager
QA/QC Manager
Civil Superintendent
Piping Superintendent
Structural Superintendent
Mechanical Superintendent
Electrical Superintendent
Cost/Estimator
Planner/Scheduler
Inspector: CWI’s Mechanical and Electrical
Skilled Craft Labor Staffing Support
Superintendent
Foreman
General Foreman
Working Foreman
Journeymen Electricians
Apprentice Electricians
Combo Welders
Boiler Tube Welders
Structural Welders
Pipefitters
Pipefitter Helpers
Boilermakers
Iron Workers/Riggers
Certified Riggers
Turbine Millwrights
Millwrights
Millwright Helpers
NCCCO Crane Operators
Helpers/Laborers
