FOCUS ON WORKFORCE

The need for a skilled and capable workforce to meet our nation’s housing demand is an ever-present concern of home builders and associates. Despite competitive pay, the building industry continues to experience labor shortages. In a recent survey of NAHB members, 73 percent of respondents reported the availability and cost of workers is one of the most significant challenges builders are facing in 2023. This translates into higher housing costs, increased home prices, difficulty completing projects on time and lower economic growth.

According to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), released in May 2022, half of construction payroll workers earn more than $54,540 and the top 25 percent make at least $77,030. In comparison, the U.S. median wage is $46,310 with the top 25 percent making at least $73,460.

Path for the Next Generation

Jackson Steen is a graduating high school senior. Since the beginning of his junior year, Steen has spent four days a week participating in the Construction Trades program through Olathe Advanced Technical Center (OATC). This program teaches students the skills necessary to remodel, repair and maintain a home.

“I’ve enjoyed everything about [the program],” said Steen. Despite having some family history in the skilled trades, Steen wasn’t exactly sure on what he wanted to do. “[The program] gives you so many opportunities… I walked into it with an open mind.” And he quickly recognized the value of the mentors and teachers available in the skilled trades. “No matter what path you want to head down, they can help you,” said Steen.

Steen’s experiences in the program have been wide ranging. He contributed to the building of the OATC playhouses for the 2022 and 2023 Parade of Playhouses. “We learned a lot of problem-solving skills,” Steen commented, reflecting on the construction process. The students took ownership of the playhouse vision from start to finish, beginning with mockup drawings to painting on the final touches.

Since January, Steen has been working an on-site internship with Bickimer Homes. Bickimer Homes has been a longtime supporter of KCHBA workforce development efforts, participating in the first Parade of Playhouses in 2019, becoming the presenting sponsor of the event in 2020 and sponsoring OATC’s 2023 playhouse entry. CEO Tommy Bickimer has experienced firsthand how the lack of workforce can impact housing. “There is a huge labor shortage in our industry. And it’s getting worse every year,” said Bickimer. He has recently experienced timelines that used to take seven months extend to over a year, the biggest reason for this being a lack of qualified workforce. “I really appreciate the KCHBA’s push on workforce development and the partnerships we have with local trade schools. They’re invaluable. Anything we can do to help further these kids along on their path, we’re going to do it,” said Bickimer. “I encourage not only builders, but every trade partner, to get involved in workforce development. It’s vital for the future.”

Steen arrives at the Bickimer Homes jobsite at 7:00 a.m. four days a week ready to work. He enjoys how there is something new to learn and do every day. “There may be times I’m framing a basement. Other days I’m cleaning up neighborhoods and making sure the house looks presentable to those looking to buy a home.” Steen has gotten to work alongside the project managers and other skilled trade workers. One of Bickimer’s Parade homes was in framing stage when Steen began his internship. He was able to interact with the home at each stage of construction moving forward, from the rough-in mechanicals to getting the house finished and ready to be judged for the Parade of Homes contests. Bickimer and Steen both agree the firsthand experience of participating in the homebuilding process provides invaluable knowledge and experience in addition to any formal classroom education.

Upon graduation, Steen has decided to attend Pitt State and is looking forward to enrolling in the Construction Management program. He was impressed by the program and received multiple scholarships, including a KCHBA Workforce Development scholastic scholarship. “I think there’s a ton of opportunity; you can be out in the field or behind a desk. With the amount of variety [in jobs], there’s also a lot of money to be made,” said Steen.

Get Involved

Looking to get involved? The KCHBA Workforce Development Committee assists with efforts to alleviate the labor shortage in the residential construction industry. The group has implemented a multi-pronged approach to promote careers in home building not only to students but anyone looking to make a career change or enhance their skill set. Visit kchomework.com, contact Courtney@ kchba.org or call the office at 816.942.8800 for more information.