F E AT U R E From the ‘New Normal’ to the Future: Embracing Change, Technology, and Opportunity to Recruit, Train, and Retain the Next Generation by Mark Drury, Shapiro & Duncan
The world was abruptly upended at the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and we continue to shift and adapt to its repercussions. These times have brought a number of challenges, but also a wealth of opportunities, particularly for the next generation of the construction industry.
Amid Widespread ShiftsConstruction is an Essential Industry While the majority of elements of daily life and work have been upended in recent months, the construction industry for the most part has forged ahead, and even reported growth, while business across several industries was halted and some may be permanently shuttered. If anything, construction workers have emerged as a front-line group during this time, for the responsibility they have to build, operate, and retain building infrastructures and systems. Overall, it is important to note that while massive
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unemployment has taken root across the country, construction work has continued. Our industry should be envisioned as a hub for talent displaced from other industries, giving rise to new approaches in recruitment, training, and maintenance of the next generation.
Major Pivot and the Changing Face of Talent Recruitment In the COVID-19 era, the construction industry saw a widespread pivot to zero-in on a new form of safety as a key focal point. Ranging from daily temperature checks to enter the job site, to mask wearing, hand washing, and physical distancing, these activities became a part of everyday life, which for our industry was a dramatic shift from the normal jobsite conduct. As protocols pivoted, so has the opportunity to develop new talent for our workforce and the shifting recruitment approaches these changing demographics require. More talent has
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been made available as industries such as hospitality, travel, and aviation have continued to conduct staff downsizes and layoffs. As workers seek their next career move, construction will continue to emerge as a positive, forward-looking industry brimming with opportunity. The expansion and development of new online certifications and remote training programs are crucial as these displaced individuals seek to join the construction industry. Leading trades, such as carpentry, and the licensed trades, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical, will continue to be highest in demand among new recruits. Now more than ever, it is critical to establish a proactive, impactful recruitment process, consisting of:
• A solid on-boarding process. You’ve made an investment in finding, interviewing, offering employment, and bringing that hire in the door. To ensure you – and they – reach the full potential, you need an extensive
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