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Overcoming Common Challenges in Urban Commercial Construction

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 13:45:27 GMT

Urban commercial construction brings a whole set of challenges that contractors in the suburbs and rural areas never have to consider. But revitalization is extremely important for urban cores to survive and thrive, so these projects can be quite lucrative. Here are some common difficulties, along with tips to overcome them and remain on good terms with the neighbors.

Tight Spaces

In urban areas, there simply isn’t as much space to move around. You might have difficulty getting some of your heavy machinery to fit, or your subcontractors could be trying to paint an apartment the size of an average broom closet. Rise to the challenge by thinking outside the box. Carefully survey the entire space before you get started, and develop a detailed project plan in advance. Be sure to include entry and egress routes, alternative ways of getting things done, and even subcontractor schedules that minimize the number of people working in the same space at the same time.

Local Regulations

Many urban areas have byzantine construction regulations that are confusing and hard to follow. Take the time to research these regulations and understand what you need to do. Then, boil it all down into a simple, easy-to-read document that you distribute to everyone involved. Get to know the local authorities and find someone whom you can call whenever you have questions or concerns. Make sure your team members are ready to pivot if you find out that you missed or misinterpreted something significant. Always have a backup plan.

Community Engagement

Transparency can go a long way toward getting the local community on your side. Let people know what you’re working on and how it will benefit them. Explain why the project is happening, how long it will take, and whether it will impact their costs (such as taxes). If you’re redeveloping a historic building, be especially sensitive to the concerns of preservationists and meet with them separately to explain your plans.

Noise Control

You won’t endear yourself to the local community if you’re making a lot of noise when residents are trying to sleep. And remember, even if you’re working on an office building, there could be luxury apartments right next door. Use sound baffling measures to reduce noise. Whenever possible, work during daylight hours.

Minimizing Disruptions

No matter how careful you are, urban commercial construction projects are inherently disruptive to the neighborhood. But you can mitigate this with careful planning. Try not to block streets during morning or evening rush hours. Be considerate of any upcoming local events. Do your best not to interfere with vehicular or pedestrian traffic patterns. When you do need to create a blockage, be sure to put up signage and work as quickly as you can without compromising safety.

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At Great Lakes Skilled Trades, we specialize in connecting contractors with professionals in the skilled trades throughout the Great Lakes region. If you need a skilled tradesperson, learn more about our services, and then contact us today!

What Is the Average Day Like for a General Laborer in Commercial Construction?

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 08:01:57 GMT

If you’re considering a new career where you can work with your hands, a general laborer in commercial construction can be an excellent choice. But what does the role actually look like? What will you do all day? Every job site is unique, but here are some general ideas.

Work Schedule

Commercial construction can run on a 24-hour schedule. This minimizes disruptions but can be challenging if you’re not a night owl. But there are also many projects that take place fully or primarily during the day. Seasonality is also a factor in the Great Lakes region due to winter weather concerns. The hours can be long, especially when you start running up against completion dates. But in general, you’ll work around 40 hours a week.

Daily Duties

General laborers do whatever needs to be done that doesn’t require specialized training. Depending on the project, your duties may include:

Cleaning job sites before construction begins
Digging trenches, compacting earth, or otherwise preparing for projects
Loading and unloading building materials
Building and removing temporary structures, such as scaffolding
Using power tools such as saws, drills, and jackhammers
Assisting skilled tradespeople as needed

Overall Work Environment

Commercial construction is fast-paced and high-energy. You’ll be surrounded by team members, each working on their particular part of the project. You should be comfortable with heavy lifting and working outside in all types of weather. Depending on the specifics of the job, you might work in confined spaces or at heights. Safety is absolutely critical on any job site, so expect daily or weekly safety meetings and employer-provided PPE (personal protective equipment).

Perks of the Job

Being a general laborer in commercial construction is a great way to start a long and stable career. The job typically pays well and does not require any specific educational background or experience. You can learn the industry from the ground up while determining which specific skilled trades might interest you. If you decide on a career in commercial construction, having general laborer experience is an asset. Future employers will be able to see that you know your way around a job site and are able to cope with the inherent challenges of the work.

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At Great Lakes Skilled Trades, we specialize in connecting professionals in the skilled trades with contractors who need their services throughout the Great Lakes region. If you’re a skilled trade worker looking for your next position, check out our available jobs today!

Maintaining High Morale and Productivity Among Construction Teams

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 08:07:31 GMT

Construction is a high-stress environment. With so much to do and so many competing pressures, it’s easy for construction teams to get burned out. But those are the people you rely on, and the work can’t get done without everyone performing at their best. Here are a few tips to keep morale up and boost productivity among all your construction employees.

Recognition Programs

Everyone likes to feel valued. An easy and cost-effective way to show your construction teams that they matter is to implement some type of recognition program. This could be as simple as an Employee of the Month certificate or taking everyone to lunch when your company hits a major milestone. The point is simply to reward your hard-working team members for a job well done.

Team-Building Exercises

The ability to function as a single unit is essential for all construction crews. But you can’t just throw a bunch of people together and expect them to act like a team. Take a little bit of time to focus on team-building exercises that are targeted to the unique construction environment. Examples include:

Safety trivia. Working in pairs or small groups, team members must answer several safety-related questions.
The name game. Put everyone in a circle and give one person a small, soft ball. They must name someone else in the circle and toss the ball to them. Anyone who names the wrong person is out.
Team relays. Set a goal that is common for construction teams, such as prepping a room for painting. Assign each team a different room and leave it to them to decide how to divide up the labor. The first team to have the entire room properly prepped wins.

Managing Workloads

No one can perform at their best if they simply have too much to do. Sit down and assess everyone’s workload. Are your laborers filling in for open skilled trades positions? Do your cabinetry experts need an extra set of hands? To improve morale, find a balance that allows everyone the necessary breathing room to do their best work.

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Career Longevity in Trades: Maintaining Health and Wellness Over the Years

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 08:16:19 GMT

As a doctor once said to a patient who developed arthritis ten years after a car accident, “Your body can handle anything in your 20s and 30s. But once you hit 40, it starts catching up with you.” This is equally true if you work a tough physical job such as the skilled trades. You might be able to get away with neglecting your health for the first few years, but if you want a long and productive career, now is the time to start taking care of yourself. Here are a few tips.

Follow Safety Protocols

You won’t have time to start worrying about bad knees or an aching back if you fall off a roof or get electrocuted first. The skilled trades can be dangerous, with many jobs taking place at height or involving hazardous materials. Always follow your safety training and use proper PPE (personal protective equipment). No matter how much of a hurry you might be in, never skimp on safety.

Use Ergonomic Procedures

Many tasks performed in the skilled trades involve protracted and repetitive lifting, bending, crawling, and other physical movements. Talk to your supervisor or an experienced member of your team about ways to properly perform these movements in a way that reduces repetitive strain injuries. If you have any known problem areas, such as a trick knee or a sketchy shoulder, consider working with a physical therapist for a few sessions. You can learn how you can compensate without damaging other parts of your body.

Get Regular Health Screenings

Regular checkups are important for everyone, especially if you do physical work. Your doctor can determine whether a nagging sore spot is just a muscle knot or something more serious. They can also catch any emerging issues with your heart, lungs, or other vital organs before you wind up having a serious issue on a job site.

Pay Attention to Mental Wellness

Don’t forget about your mental health. Overwork is common in the skilled trades, which can lead to anxiety, depression, and even self-medicating with drugs or alcohol. Carve out some time every day to do things that bring you joy. Check with a mental health professional if you feel out of sorts for more than a few days.

Climb the Career Ladder

One of the best ways to reduce the strain on your body is to stop doing the most physically demanding work. Climbing the career ladder offers a bigger paycheck and more responsibility while also removing you from the hardest day-to-day physical challenges. And you don’t have to go to a corner office if that’s not your thing. You can become a crew boss and still spend every day onsite, just with more leadership and fewer physical tasks.

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Effective Team Communication in High-Risk Construction Environments

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 12:06:15 GMT

A construction site is, by nature, a high-risk environment. Communication is essential to minimizing risk, but how can team members communicate when there is so much noise and distraction? Here is what all contractors need to know.

Clarity

On a job site, both verbal and non-verbal communication must be clear and unambiguous. Just like the ten codes that emergency professionals use, you should develop a set of basic, standardized communications. Include both simple verbal phrases and hand signals so that everyone can get the same message even when it’s too noisy to hear clearly.

Technology

Radios and phone apps can help to communicate real-time updates across a job site. Choose one primary piece of technology for normal situations and a secondary backup for times that your primary tool fails. Train everyone on how to use both solutions and when and how to switch from one to the other. Test all connections during a group meeting each morning before everyone heads out onto the site.

Emergency Protocols

All construction projects should have a written emergency safety plan. Drill this plan with your team before starting work, and bring it up frequently in regular safety meetings. If anything should go catastrophically wrong, this plan can help get people out of danger quickly and efficiently. Make sure each person has an assigned role and that there is a clear and concise way for anyone on the job site to activate the plan.

Feedback

Your team members are your eyes and ears on the ground. They are best positioned to understand what’s working well and where communication is breaking down. Provide easy-to-use lines of feedback for them to express their concerns. Carefully consider all feedback and develop a plan of action to address it.

Team Meetings

Team meetings are essential to building trust, as well as an easy way to communicate any changes or updates. On a high-risk construction site, it’s important to hold a group meeting every morning before work begins and a safety meeting at least once per week. If anything unusual happens during the workday, consider adding a debriefing session at the end of the day for everyone to talk it out.

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How To Transition From a Skilled Worker to a Management Role

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 12:17:12 GMT

Are you ready to take the leap from skilled tradesperson to construction manager? It’s a natural career progression, but it can be fraught with challenges. Here are some active steps you can take to make your management transition run more smoothly.

Acquire New Leadership Skills

If you’re making the transition to management, you probably already have some decent leadership skills. But this is only the beginning. Take advantage of the opportunity to learn as much as you can from your boss. You should also look for a mentor who has been in management for some time. That person can help guide your journey into developing your own leadership style.

Understand the Top Managerial Responsibilities in Construction

A construction manager has a lot of responsibilities that skilled workers have no reason to think about. These include, but are not limited to:

Overseeing budgets
Ordering materials
Setting schedules and meeting deadlines
Quality control
Staff management

Make sure you understand how each of these responsibilities works. Take the time to develop plans, and be sure to ask for help if needed.

Navigate the Cultural Shift

One of the trickiest parts of moving up to management is navigating your relationship with your coworkers. While they were once your peers, they now report to you. This can cause confusion and even jealousy. And you may have some trouble holding your team members accountable, especially those with whom you have been especially close.

This is normal and natural. Take advantage of your existing closeness with the team to foster a sense of inclusivity and a positive work culture. You’ll need to be careful not to let things slide, but your former peers will start to root for your success when they realize that you’re giving them a seat at the table. Be fair and evenhanded, and make your expectations clear, and you’ll be in a great position to keep things running smoothly.

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What Are the Top Skills Employers Look for in Commercial Construction Workers?

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 12:23:59 GMT

Commercial construction work may seem like just a bigger version of residential construction. But it requires some unique skills. If you want to make the leap from residential to commercial construction, make sure you are strong in these areas.

Advanced Technical Abilities

You’ll need to be at the top of your game to succeed in the commercial construction industry. Make sure you have a strong ability to work with blueprints, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and other basic tools. And double-check that your specific trade skills are where they should be. Whether you specialize in metalwork, plumbing, painting, or something else, you need to be able to do it even under highly challenging conditions.

Proficiency in New Construction Technologies

All parts of the construction industry are rapidly adopting new technologies. But since commercial projects tend to be bigger and more complicated, they also tend to require stronger technological proficiency. To be competitive, brush up on everything from estimating software to augmented reality and even drone operation.

Team Leadership

On smaller residential projects, you might work alone or with one or two others. On a large commercial build, you could be working shoulder-to-shoulder with dozens of other skilled tradespeople. While not everyone has to be a leader, the ability to take charge of a team could put you ahead of the competition.

Problem-Solving Skills

The more complex a project is, the more likelihood there is for something to go wrong. A big part of commercial construction work is anticipating and solving problems on the fly. You’ll need next-level skills to quickly assess an emerging issue, identify a solution, and act upon it. And, of course, knowing when something is above your pay grade is also important. Some issues should be passed along to your supervisor to solve, while others are best fixed as you go along. Understanding the difference will make you a highly valuable member of the team.

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How Do You Ensure Your Vision Is Realized by Your Construction Team?

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 12:30:25 GMT

Every successful construction project begins with a strong vision. But how can you ensure that your team brings that vision to reality? Here are a few tips for construction managers.

Create an Actionable Construction Plan

The first step is always to sit down with your client and learn what they want from the project. But most clients don’t know the language of construction. It’s your job as a manager to translate the client’s ideas into a concrete, actionable construction plan. The more detailed the plan, the better your team members will be able to follow it.

Ensure Constant Alignment with Project Goals

Think of your construction plan as an overall guide, with each piece divided into specific goals and milestones. As the project moves along, continue to refer to the plan. Does progress on the ground align with the goals you established at the outset? If not, call a team meeting to get back on track. It’s always better to identify potential issues as they emerge rather than waiting until a significant amount of work has been done.

Keep the Client Engaged and Informed

Ultimately, your client is the boss. So don’t leave them out of the loop. They should sign off on the initial construction plan, as well as any changes that are made. Keep them updated on your progress, and always ask for their input on any key decisions. Keeping the client engaged throughout the process serves two very important purposes: First, it helps minimize the risk that they will hate something you did when it’s too late to make a change. And secondly, it holds you accountable. When you are accountable to the client, it’s much easier for you to hold your team members accountable.

Bringing a vision to reality isn’t always easy. But taking the time to develop a comprehensive and detailed plan, then referring back to that plan while also engaging the client, will help you and your team members stay on track.

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Building Effective Partnerships with Suppliers

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 12:36:31 GMT

A successful project often relies on the timely availability of quality materials. Building a strong rapport with suppliers ensures not only competitive prices but also timely deliveries, reducing project delays. Let’s take a look at some strategies for fostering strong supplier relationships.

Clear and Honest Communication

It would be impossible to build a relationship without communication. It lays a foundation of trust, boosts understanding, and leads to successful problem-solving. But it only works if you are clear and honest with your suppliers. You will also need to practice active listening. Techniques such as restating what you think you heard and asking clarifying questions will help to ensure that you’re both on the same page. And always get everything in writing so that both parties have something to reference if a misunderstanding occurs.

Clearly Defined Responsibilities

At first glance, this one seems easy. You order materials, and the supplier delivers them, right? But it’s actually not that simple. How far in advance do you need to place your order? How are orders affected by holidays and other busy shipping times? What happens if a particular material isn’t available? What if you don’t like a specific item? Lay out contingencies in writing for as many potential hiccups as you can think of.

Mutual Respect

Always show respect for your suppliers’ expertise and business concerns. Empathize with them over supply chain issues and other circumstances beyond their control. And never partner with someone who isn’t equally respectful of your own challenges. When both parties respect each other, you will be in a better position to solve the inevitable problems that will arise.

Technology

Lean into technology to enhance your supplier relationships. Automated ordering, online order tracking, and data analytics can go a long way toward creating smoother transactions. There will always be a need for the human touch in building your relationships, but the more tasks you are able to offload to technology, the easier it will be for both you and your suppliers to know what to expect.

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Work-Life Balance in Skilled Trades: Achieving Personal and Professional Success

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 12:40:43 GMT

The skilled trades are highly demanding, both physically and mentally. To be at your best personally and professionally, you’ll need some downtime. Here are a few ways to achieve work-life balance when you have a high-intensity job.

Time Management

There are only so many hours in the day, and each task takes as long as it takes. Many people in the skilled trades are overachievers and perfectionists, cramming their days full of as much work as possible. But this is a recipe for burnout. Learn to prioritize your tasks and carve out realistic blocks of time to accomplish each one. And professionals say that you should schedule no more than 80% of your day. Leave the rest of the time open for the inevitable delays, rest breaks, and other essentials.

Stress Management and Mental Health

Learning to manage your stress in healthier ways is one of the biggest keys to success. Identify simple things that bring you joy—which could be anything from reading a good book to playing video games—and do one or two of them each day. During your work hours, learn to take a breath and regroup. If you feel yourself getting frustrated or angry, go for a short walk or vent to a coworker. Letting your emotions out in short bursts will prevent them from exploding all at once.

Physical Health

Your job may be physically demanding, but that doesn’t mean it’s optimizing your health. The skilled trades tend to feature repetitive movements that can lead to overuse injuries. Balance this by implementing an exercise routine that includes plenty of stretching and whole-body fitness. The goal is to strengthen and stretch all of your muscles equally rather than allowing your work duties to create painful imbalances.

Choosing the Right Employer

As an employee, there is only so much you can do to protect your own work-life balance if your employer doesn’t see the value in it. When you work for a company that prioritizes work-life balance, such as Great Lakes Skilled Trades, you have a partner in protecting your physical and mental health.

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Effective Project Management: Agile Techniques in Construction

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 12:44:58 GMT

Are you having trouble keeping up with all the moving parts in your various construction projects? With multiple teams, suppliers, and other stakeholders involved, not to mention the inevitable challenges that arise from day to day, it can be tough to keep things moving along. Agile project management may be just what you need. Here’s what you should know.

What Is Agile Project Management?

Agile project management (APM) is an iterative and adaptive methodology for managing complex projects. Each project is subdivided into smaller projects known as sprints. At the end of each sprint, all stakeholders review its successes and challenges and make changes as needed ahead of the next sprint.

Benefits of Agile Project Management in Construction

Agile project management came from the world of software development, but it offers numerous benefits to construction companies. These include, but are not limited to:

Flexibility
Improved communication
Efficient problem-solving
Reduced errors
Less waste
Better transparency
Fostering team building and trust

How to Implement APM in Construction

The first step is to choose the right framework and tools, such as Scrum or Lean. Train everyone involved in the project to use these tools. Also, teach them about APM, including its values and principles.

Set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) for each sprint. Track and measure the results, then hold a teamwide meeting to review your findings. Give each person the opportunity to weigh in and work together to find solutions for challenges before the next sprint.

Celebrate the successes and reward your team members for their individual and collective efforts. Turn each challenge into a learning opportunity rather than punishing anyone for it.

Agile project management can be an excellent way to keep your construction projects on track while improving teamwork and collaboration across your workforce. Take the time to set it up and train everyone on how it works, and you will soon succeed.

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Dealing with a Disconnected Supervisor

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 12:50:17 GMT

Dealing with a disconnected supervisor is one of the biggest challenges you can face as an employee. Your boss might forget about assigned projects or even double-book you for two tasks at the same time. You might get very little direction, and your supervisor may not have your back when you need it. Worst of all, you might find yourself constantly scrambling to pick up the pieces and get projects back on track. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself in this situation.

Put It in Writing

Switching to written communication can help you keep things on track. Whenever you have questions or concerns, send a thoughtfully written and tightly edited email. Hopefully, your boss will respond in kind, giving you a paper trail that can help clear up confusion later.

Prioritize

You probably have a lot of questions for your disconnected supervisor, but discussing too many things at once will only overwhelm them. Create a written list of the three or four most important talking points, and stick to your list. If your boss starts veering in a different direction, gently redirect the conversation.

Offer to Help

You can make your supervisor’s life easier, as well as your own, by offering to help out. Are there projects you are qualified to lead? Do you have ideas on how to make a specific process run more smoothly? Try to become your supervisor’s trusted go-to person, and you may be able to fix some of the problems yourself.

Know When to Move On

Sometimes, it simply isn’t worth trying to work with a disconnected supervisor. This is especially true if you start getting blamed for their mistakes or if they try to claim all the credit for your accomplishments. Know your worth, and don’t stay too long in a toxic environment. Assess what you’ve learned in your role, and be ready to talk about it in future job interviews.

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Are You a Leader or a Boss?

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 12:53:57 GMT

If you’re in management, you’re likely used to being referred to as the boss. But are you just a boss, or are you a true leader? And why does it matter? Let’s take a deep dive into the difference between leaders and bosses and why you should always strive to be a leader.

Leader vs. Boss

A boss is what most people think of when they generically picture middle management. You’re there to enforce the rules, minimize risk, and deliver predictable results. You judge your employees’ success by how well they follow the established policies and procedures.

A leader, on the other hand, is a visionary and an innovator. You’re there to make a difference, and you aren’t afraid to take risks. You also know how to inspire others to step outside the status quo. You give your team members the tools they need to succeed and encourage them to pursue excellence.

Why Be a Leader?

Being a boss is the “safe” route. You’ll maintain things as they are and perhaps make them incrementally better. You won’t be called to account by your own superiors, and you can coast through each day.

But being a boss also means going on autopilot. You won’t get the best out of yourself or your team members. And you won’t contribute to making your company a success.

True leaders can change the world, or at least their little piece of it. You’ll inspire, lead by example, and empower your team members. You’ll contribute directly to your organization’s success and set your employees on a path toward lifelong success.

So, Which Am I?

Wondering whether you’re currently a boss or a leader? Here are some key differences:

Bosses direct while leaders show the way.
Bosses blame others, while leaders hold themselves accountable.
Bosses closely guard their assets, while leaders contribute to the greater good.
Bosses prioritize their own outcomes, while leaders seek the best outcomes for all.

Becoming a leader can feel scary and overwhelming. But it’s the best thing you can do for yourself, your employees, and your organization. Take it one step at a time and remain confident. Leadership requires a different mindset and slightly different skills, which anyone can learn.

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5 Work Habits That Every Construction Laborer Should Have

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 12:58:26 GMT

If you’re in construction, you might wonder what you can do to stand out from the crowd and increase your chances of moving up the ladder. Here are five essential work habits that can help you show your commitment to the job.

Prioritizing Safety

Safety is number one on any construction site. There are a lot of hazards, and construction companies are eager to minimize the risks as much as possible. Make sure you follow all of your safety training at all times. Never cut corners, even if you’re in a hurry. Use all appropriate PPE (personal protective equipment), such as steel-toed boots and a hard hat if required. Never operate equipment without proper training, and report any unsafe conditions immediately.

Being Punctual and Reliable

Construction projects run on very detailed schedules, and a single person could throw the entire timeline into disarray. Always show up on time and work to the very best of your ability. Develop a reputation as the go-to person who can be relied on no matter what the situation.

Fostering Teamwork and Communication Skills

Construction isn’t the right field for loners. You’ll be part of a crew that needs to operate as a smooth unit. Being a team player, keeping the lines of communication open, and helping things run as smoothly as possible will help you get noticed. If you have natural leadership skills, don’t be afraid to show them off. Just make sure you don’t overstep your authority, which can lead to resentment.

Paying Attention to Detail

Ever hear the old saying, “Measure twice, cut once”? On a construction site, every detail matters. The walls must be square. Steel beams must fit together precisely. Learn to focus on even the smallest details without losing track of the bigger picture.

Developing Adaptability and Problem-Solving Abilities

Construction sites are busy and dynamic, and things can change quickly. It’s also a given that issues will arise. The most successful construction workers are able to adapt and roll with the punches while also solving problems on the fly. If you can make quick assessments, figure out what to do, and then act decisively, you will be in high demand.

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The Future of Construction: Key Trends for 2024 and Beyond

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 13:02:01 GMT

As we venture into 2024, the construction industry is undergoing transformations driven by technological advancements and shifting urban landscapes. As a contractor, how will all this affect your business? Let’s take a look at two key trends that will dominate the construction industry in 2024 and beyond.

Urbanization

City living continues to be incredibly popular, but today’s city dwellers are demanding and discriminating. This is driving ever more innovative and efficient building practices. Construction designers are working hard to provide the usability and sustainability that modern downtowns require. Lighter-weight building materials that are sustainably sourced, as well as prefab and modular construction designs, are expected to rule urban development over the next several years.

Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Robotics technology has really exploded in the past decade. Autonomous robots are now playing a larger role in construction than ever imagined. Robots are often the best solution for dangerous tasks as well as repetitive jobs such as bricklaying. They can also perform site inspections in a fraction of the time of human inspectors. They have the added advantage of seeing through walls and entering very small crawl spaces.

AI has gotten a bad rap recently, but when used smartly, it can revolutionize your construction business practices. AI is particularly good at project management and resource allocation, ensuring that your crews are working in the most efficient manner and all tasks are on track.

Another area in which AI really shines is predictive maintenance. Rather than making educated guesses about when and where maintenance will be needed, you can harness the immense data collection and analysis powers of artificial intelligence to stay ahead of the game. Sensors and other data collection tools are becoming less and less expensive, making them easy to install in key areas.

And don’t forget about other high-tech innovations such as 3D printing and building information modeling (BIM). You can now create a highly realistic 3D model of even the most complex building design, allowing you to spot potential issues before they occur. And you can 3D print novel new designs with a minimum of waste. It’s a win-win for both you and your clients and a trend that is only likely to become more common in 2024 and beyond.

Need a Skilled Trade Professional?

Of course, all the construction trends in the world won’t do anything for you if you don’t have just the right crew members to implement them. At Great Lakes Skilled Trades, we specialize in connecting contractors with professionals in the skilled trades throughout the Great Lakes region. If you need a skilled tradesperson, learn more about our services, and then contact us today!

Working in Commercial Construction: What to Expect On-Site

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 14:45:22 GMT

Commercial construction includes all sorts of structures that are not single-family or multi-family homes. You might work on small-scale projects, such as retail stores or service businesses. Or you could work on massive buildings, such as hospitals or skyscrapers. Regardless of exactly what type of commercial construction you do, though, on-site expectations are largely the same.

Early Work Hours

Although there are some exceptions, construction crews tend to start early in the morning. This is important in order to maximize daylight since it’s a lot harder to do your best work safely under work lights or other temporary lighting configurations. Of course, the advantage is that you will likely have most evenings free.

Safety Precautions

Safety is key on any job site. When you’re working on a commercial project, especially a larger one that may involve significant heights, it’s even more important. Your foreman or team lead should provide ongoing safety training, as well as any needed personal protective equipment (PPE). Take your training to heart and never work in an unsafe manner, even if you feel pressured to wrap up your tasks.

Teamwork

Commercial construction projects tend to be complex, with many moving parts. Your success depends on your teammates and vice versa. You don’t necessarily have to become close friends, but it’s important to do your part to create an atmosphere of trust and reliability.

Physical Demands

Construction is hard work. You’ll need to be in top physical condition to be successful. You may have to climb ladders or scaffolding, utilize complex safety rigging, or bend and reach into awkward spaces. Before starting a job in commercial construction, consider joining a gym or embarking on a fitness program that will prepare your body for the stress.

Ever-Changing Tasks

No two days on a commercial construction site are ever the same. These jobs go through phases, from planning and permitting to preparing the foundation to creating the interior. And then everything will need to be inspected. Delays are also inevitable. Make sure you’re comfortable with things changing from day to day, and sometimes even hour to hour.

Problem-Solving

Problem-solving is a core skill for any construction worker. Whether a power tool malfunctions or a wall turns out to be out of square, you’ll need the ability to react in real-time. Assessing the situation and then choosing and implementing a solution are all in a day’s work.

Job Security

Talented commercial construction personnel are always in high demand. If you’re good at what you do, you can enjoy strong job security. After all, there will always be buildings to build, even in times of recession.

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Skilled Trades Equipment and Tool Management

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 14:49:22 GMT

Recognizing when tools or equipment require maintenance/replacement is crucial for both operational efficiency and worker safety. Regular maintenance checks, understanding the nuances of each tool and equipment piece, and discerning when replacement is necessary are essential aspects of effective management. Here’s how to improve your equipment and tool management process.

Establish Tracking Protocols

Managing your tools and equipment starts with data. Establish protocols to track tools and equipment throughout their lifespan, including:

Delivery
Installation
Ongoing inspections

When an inspection shows that an item is past its useful life, start the process all over again.

Prioritize Preventive Maintenance

Don’t just fix things when they break. In coordination with your maintenance team and manufacturer instructions, establish a comprehensive preventive maintenance program for each tool and piece of equipment. This should form the heart of your equipment and tool management process, because it enables you to maximize item lifespans while maintaining the highest safety standards.

Improve Communication

Your frontline employees will be the first to identify any equipment or tool issues. They need a clear process for reporting any problems they observe. But communication shouldn’t be one-way. It’s also important to set up a process of keeping them informed of what’s going on with repairs or replacements. After all, they will be the ones who have to work around the situation until it is resolved.

Track Your Items

By nature, tools and equipment tend to move around a lot. A team might take certain items to use in the field. A tool might change hands multiple times. These things can make it tough to schedule maintenance or even keep up with exactly what you have in service. Utilize tracking technology, and you will be able to keep up with your entire inventory at all times. You can even note when each item is due for maintenance.

The equipment and tool management process can feel overwhelming, especially if you have a bigger company. But tracking, communicating with frontline workers, and implementing preventive maintenance schedules can ensure that you get the most out of each item.

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How to Avoid Common Winter Construction Accidents

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 14:53:37 GMT

Winter construction accidents are, unfortunately, all too common. It would be impossible to eliminate the risks completely, but there are proactive steps you can take to mitigate hazards. Here are some ways to avoid the most common winter accidents on a construction site.

Icy and Slippery Surfaces

Slip and fall accidents can occur whenever surfaces are wet or covered in ice. These can lead to bumps and bruises or more serious injuries, including abrasions and even broken bones. Protect yourself by investing in a high-quality pair of winter boots. Also, take the time to assess every surface before walking on it, and change your gait when things feel slippery. Short, slow steps will help reduce your risk of falling, as well as your chances of being injured if you do slip.

Frostbite and Hypothermia

Construction workers are outdoors, often for hours at a time, in bitter weather conditions. Frostbite and hypothermia can easily occur if you are unprepared. Frostbite is damage to a specific area of the skin, while hypothermia happens when the body is unable to regulate its temperature. Extreme cases of frostbite can cause permanent tissue damage or even amputation. Extreme cases of hypothermia can lead to death.

Protect yourself with heavy-duty winter clothing that is appropriate to your environment. Dress in layers and make sure that your feet and hands are well-protected. In very bitter weather, face coverings are also essential. If you start to feel unusually cold, stop what you’re doing, move into a heated space if possible, and add more layers. Keep an eye on your coworkers as well since one of the effects of hypothermia is an inability to feel cold. If someone does develop frostbite or hypothermia, it is a medical emergency. Call 911 and keep the person warm and dry while you wait for help.

Construction Equipment and Vehicles

Driving or operating heavy machinery is a very common cause of winter construction accidents. Muddy or unfinished roadways, like those under construction, can become extremely hazardous. If you operate any equipment or drive any vehicles on the construction site, get extra training on how to handle icy, snowy, or slippery roads. Also, reduce the risk of being hit by a passerby through the use of cones, barricades, brightly colored vests, and other warning materials. Remember that you will be harder to see in a snowstorm or other weather event.

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Maximizing Efficiency with GLST: Your Workforce Solution

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 15:00:05 GMT

Construction project managers face a variety of challenges when it comes to workforce management. But you don’t need to handle the entire hiring process yourself. From accessing a vast talent pool to streamlining hiring and providing adaptable workforce solutions, partnering with Great Lakes Skilled Trades (GLST) can save time, reduce costs, and enhance the efficiency of construction projects. Here is what you can expect.

The Right People for Each Job

At GLST, the skilled trades are our entire focus. This means that we have the knowledge and experience to create the right fit each and every time. No matter what level of professional you need or which specific trade you are looking for, we will provide you with just the right people for every project.

Flexible Solutions

Our contracts are not one-size-fits-all. Do you need a framing crew for a week or a single electrician for one day? We can help! And we understand that different projects have different requirements. For each job, we’ll sit down with you to understand your immediate and ongoing needs and present a solution that is tailored to your specific requirements.

Safety and Quality First

Although our skilled tradespeople are experienced professionals, we go the extra mile to ensure that their skills and safety training are up to date. Every tradesperson who works with us undergoes OSHA 10 training as well as a skills and hours verification process. You can be confident that you are utilizing only the best, no matter which specific trade they are in.

The Extra Mile

We’re dedicated to ensuring that all of your projects are completed safely and efficiently. That’s why we have an on-staff Safety Director and why we offer both safety evaluations and toolbox talks for your entire team. Your success is our success.

Construction project managers have enough on their plate. At GLST, we offer the skilled tradespeople and the resources you need to complete your projects quickly, safely, and efficiently. Let us focus on what we do best—matching people to projects—while you focus on your core services.

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Skilled Trades Success: Navigating the Holiday Season

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 15:03:28 GMT

As the holiday season approaches, maintaining a motivated workforce in the skilled trades becomes crucial for project success. But it can be challenging, as workers’ thoughts turn toward special events and spending time with family. Let’s take a look at some strategies you can use to create holiday harmony on the job site.

Setting Clear Expectations

Start by getting everyone on the same page regarding expectations during the holiday season. Will you close for a day or a week, or will it be business as usual? What projects will everyone be working on? Does anyone need to be on call in case of emergencies? What’s the policy for taking PTO hours during the season?

Offering Incentives and Bonuses

For better or worse, the holiday season has become heavily commercialized. People tend to spend a lot of money on gifts, special foods, and events. This is a great time to offer incentives and bonuses for those who are working through the holidays. Just be careful. Some people will sign up for every extra shift imaginable in order to make more money, putting them at risk for overwork and burnout. Be sure to enforce sensible limits to protect their health and well-being.

Organizing Team-Building Activities

The holiday season is known for its parties and special events, so why not consider hosting your own? Depending on your staff and their interests, this might mean an after-hours party with everyone’s families or Happy Hour at a local bar known for its festive holiday cocktails. Or perhaps an escape room or scavenger hunt. The point is to create opportunities for your employees to bond with their “work family.”

Fostering a Supportive Work Environment

The holidays are a great time to assess your work culture. Are you doing everything you can to foster a supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable expressing themselves? Is yours a culture of collaboration rather than competition? Survey your team members to find out how they feel about the current environment at work and get their suggestions for improvement.

The holiday season is a busy time for many companies, and it can be tough to keep your workers motivated. But with a few proactive steps, you can go a long way toward boosting loyalty and productivity throughout the season.

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Navigating Mistakes on the Jobsite

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 15:06:58 GMT

If you’re like most skilled trade workers, you probably take a lot of pride in your work. You’ve honed your skills through hard experience and enjoy seeing a project come together. But no matter how talented you are, you’re still a human being. And that means that mistakes will occur despite your best intentions. How you handle them will say a lot about your character and who you are as a worker. Here are some tips.

Own Your Mistake

The first step is to simply own the mistake. Yes, you messed up. Mistakes happen. Avoid the urge to blame others or justify your actions. Taking responsibility builds trust with your employer. It projects confidence. And even more importantly, it allows you to get on with the process of fixing the problem.

Document Everything

You, your supervisor, and your team need to know exactly what went wrong. So, document it as carefully as possible. Take photos and write down everything you can think of that may have contributed to the issue.

Communicate Widely

Tell your supervisor what happened as soon as possible. But don’t stop there. Your coworkers also need to know, especially if the problem could also affect them. For example, if shoddy materials were involved, you need to tell your team members not to use them. If there is a safety hazard, they need to know to avoid it.

Assess and Solve the Issue

Work with your boss and your team members to figure out what happened. Perform a risk management assessment to determine what future damage might occur as a result. Analyze how and why the mistake occurred and make an action plan to avoid similar mistakes in the future. And determine how best to deal with the situation as it currently exists, including rectifying the immediate issue while minimizing potential fallout.

Mistakes are inevitable in construction projects. But the steps you take in the immediate aftermath are vital to keeping the project moving, demonstrating your trustworthiness, and ultimately protecting your reputation and that of your company.

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The Skilled Trade Talent Shortage: Understanding the Root Causes and Solutions

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 15:10:39 GMT

The skilled trades are going through a bit of a talent shortage right now, and it can be tough to find the professionals you need. Part of it is the general labor shortage that took hold following the pandemic and hasn’t fully eased. However, the skilled trades also face some unique challenges in attracting and retaining talent. Here’s what you need to know.

Retiring Workforce

Baby boomers were the largest living population group until 2019 and are still very close to the top. They’re also the last generation to remain highly loyal to a single company throughout their careers. But they’re now retiring in droves. As boomers retire, the construction industry must scramble to find their replacements.

Low Interest

But replacing older workers isn’t so easy in the skilled trades. There’s been a seismic generational shift, and many young people don’t see the trades as a viable career path. Maybe it’s because they’ve seen the effects of offshoring manufacturing or because they were kids during the Great Recession of 2008. Either way, the interest in building a career as a skilled tradesperson simply isn’t there for a lot of people in their 20s.

Emphasis on Higher Education

A huge challenge for the skilled trades is that society as a whole puts enormous emphasis on traditional higher education. Although the trades pay very well and offer strong job security, a college degree is expected in many social circles. People who choose to work with their hands may feel judged by their peers.

What You Can Do

The best long-term solution to the talent shortage is for those in the construction and manufacturing industries and the skilled trades to come together and change the messaging. Being outspoken about this type of career’s advantages can help win people over in the long run.

But in the short run, you need an ongoing supply of reliable tradespeople to work on your projects. That’s where a dedicated staffing firm such as Great Lakes Skilled Trades can help. We know where to find skilled trades professionals and how to vet them to make sure they have the skills you need. Rather than trying to find talent yourself in this tough market, why not let us bring the talent to you?

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Welding in Construction: Crucial Applications and Contributions

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 15:20:58 GMT

Welding can be a great choice for a long-term career. It’s needed throughout the construction and manufacturing industries, so you can always find a job. To become a welder, various requirements and skills are necessary. Keep in mind that specific qualifications can vary significantly based on the employer, industry, and location. It’s best to thoroughly review the qualifications listed in each job posting to ensure you meet the specific requirements for the position you’re interested in pursuing.

Education

While a college degree is not usually required, having a high school diploma or equivalent is essential.

Training

You’ll need to complete a welding program, apprenticeship, or vocational training. These programs provide hands-on experience and teach you various welding techniques, safety protocols, and industry-specific knowledge.

Certification

While not mandatory, obtaining certification can enhance your job prospects and earning potential. Organizations like the American Welding Society (AWS) offer various welding certifications based on different techniques and materials.

Keep reading to gain an in-depth understanding of the duties of welders and the important project applications that lie ahead.

What Is Welding?

At its heart, welding is simply the act of fusing together two pieces of metal. The welding process makes the finished material stronger and safer. Welders may work high in the air or in confined spaces, which means a key skill is the ability to control fear and work confidently under any circumstances. You’ll also need to have good attention to detail and be willing to follow all safety procedures.

Structural Welding

One of the biggest roles that welders play in the construction industry is structural welding. This position is what allows huge metal building frames to exist. You might work on skyscrapers, gas pipelines, or bridges, but as a welder, you’ll help to ensure that the construction project has a safe and resilient interior structure.

Creating Strong Joints

Since welding actually fuses metals together, it creates much stronger joints than would be possible with simple nuts and bolts. There are a variety of different welded joints, such as lap joints and cruciform joints. As a welder, it will be your responsibility to understand all these types of joints, to know how to create them, and to understand which joints to use under what circumstances.

Fabricating Large and Small Items

Welders also work in the fabrication, creation of large and small metal items. In the construction industry, an especially common application for welding is in the creation of metal fences and gates. Whether it’s for a home or a commercial building, you might be called upon to build a fence that is strong, tamper-resistant, and able to provide adequate protection.

These are just a few of the most common applications for welding. No matter what your specific area of interest, if you’re good with your hands, welding might just be the right career for you.

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Great Lakes Preservation: Innovative Energy Solutions

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 15:24:58 GMT

Imagine construction sites that serve as symbols of progress and sustainability. In this vision, solar panels enhance rooftops, capturing sunlight to power buildings and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Cutting-edge energy-efficient systems seamlessly blend into architectural designs, significantly cutting energy consumption and operational costs. These innovative practices go beyond construction – they build a cleaner, more resilient environment. Discover the potential of Solar Panels, Energy-Efficient Systems, and Green Building Practices to elevate your construction projects while safeguarding the Great Lakes environment.

Eco-Friendly Energy Solutions

Explore these practical and impactful eco-friendly solutions that cut costs over time and play a pivotal role in environmental preservation.

Solar Panels

Embrace the sun’s power and transform your buildings by integrating solar panels into their design. By harnessing the region’s abundant sunlight, you slash operational costs and contribute to a cleaner, renewable energy future.

Energy-Efficient Systems

Modernize your projects with energy-efficient HVAC, lighting, and appliance systems. Consider the advantages of LED lighting – These small, powerful light sources not only produce ample illumination but also consume a fraction of the energy used by conventional incandescent or fluorescent lights. These smart choices save resources and enhance your project’s financial viability.

Green Building Practices

Embrace eco-conscious materials, efficient windows, and proper insulation to establish structures that echo environmental stewardship. Integrating these practices promotes energy conservation and minimizes your projects’ ecological footprint.

Integrating Sustainability Simply

Consider these three budget-friendly ideas that contribute to environmental sustainability:

Choose Local Materials

Opt for locally sourced building materials. This minimizes transportation-related carbon emissions and supports local economies, fostering a more sustainable approach.

Natural Lighting and Ventilation

Design spaces with ample windows and natural ventilation. This reduces the need for artificial lighting and climate control, reducing energy consumption.

Rainwater Harvesting

Install rainwater harvesting systems that gather and reuse rainwater for various purposes, reducing the strain on local water resources.

Partner With Us for a Sustainable Future

At Great Lakes Skilled Trades, we’re dedicated to bridging the gap between construction and conservation. By embracing Innovative Energy Solutions and adhering to environmental regulations, we can create a cleaner, more sustainable future for the Great Lakes region. Explore our services to find skilled tradespeople dedicated to constructing with care.

Common Challenges in Masonry Work and How to Overcome Them

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 15:32:26 GMT

Masonry can be an excellent career choice. After all, brick and stone are timeless materials that never go out of style. But masonry work comes with some unique challenges. Whether you’re a novice mason or have been doing this work for years, here are some common masonry problems you might face and how to ensure you are always putting forth your best work.

Masonry Challenges

Problems you might see during your masonry career include:

Efflorescence

This whitish deposit tends to appear when the weather is cool and wet, dissolving the natural salts in the material. It’s generally caused by a thin topcoat, inadequate drainage, micro-fissures, or the addition of too much water to the base material.

Bulging wall

If a wall appears to be bulging, it’s usually due to either water infiltration or mortar deterioration. This can eventually cause the entire wall to collapse.

Deteriorated mortar

Low-quality mortar can deteriorate quickly, but even strong mortar is subject to the ravages of time.

Cracking

Individual bricks may become damaged, or a crack could run through an entire wall. Either way, you’ll need to determine the cause. It may be something like extreme temperature variations, or it might signal that the entire building has shifted due to a foundation problem.

Preventing Masonry Problems

It would be impossible to prevent all damage to a masonry structure. These buildings exist in the real world, where the elements can and will take a toll. But you can ward off many problems by always doing your best work.

Ensure consistent mortar mixtures

Never take shortcuts when mixing your mortar. Always check the consistency and discard any batch that seems “off.”

Handle different materials effectively

Masons work with brick, stone, and even concrete. Learn how to install each type of material properly, and ensure you always utilize the best practices.

Manage weather-related obstacles

Know the location where you are doing your work, and take active steps to mitigate the risks. For example, you’ll need to follow different guidelines in an earthquake-prone area than in one with frequent hurricanes. Learn the codes and other regulations for your location and utilize them in every job.

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Electrical Codes: Compliance and Safety in Construction Projects

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 15:36:19 GMT

Building codes in general and electrical codes, in particular, are an incredibly vital part of any construction project. But why exactly are electrical codes so important, and how can you remain in compliance? Let’s take a deeper look.

The Importance of Complying with Electrical Codes

Each jurisdiction sets its own electrical codes, so you must check with local officials about your wiring plan. But local codes are generally based on the National Electrical Code or NEC. This massive document is a must-have for any general contractor or electrician, as it goes into extreme detail about everything involving residential or commercial electrical projects.

If you don’t comply with both the national and local electrical codes, you’ll be putting your company at risk. These codes are designed to reduce the risks of electrical hazards and fires. Wiring that is not up to code and later causes a fire, or other emergency could lead to significant legal liability.

In addition, each project must undergo two separate code inspections by a licensed inspector from the local building code office. The first, known as a rough-in inspection, occurs when all the boxes and wiring are in place, but the walls are still open. The second is a final inspection, which occurs just before the project is considered complete. If any part of the electrical work fails either inspection, you must redo it at your own expense.

How to Remain in Compliance

The best way to remain in compliance with electrical codes is to hire licensed, skilled, and experienced electricians for all of the electrical work on your construction projects. While it can be tempting to cut corners, it simply is not worth the risk. Get a copy of the latest NEC codebook as well as the local codebook for your area, and familiarize yourself with the basics. You don’t need to become an expert, but a basic understanding of what to look for can help you keep an eye on any new electricians you bring on board.

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The Role of Skilled Professionals in Fire and Water Restoration

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 15:39:37 GMT

Behind every successful fire and water restoration project are skilled and dedicated professionals who play an important role in repairing homes and businesses. This can be a wonderful and rewarding career for those who enjoy giving back to members of their community. But what exactly does the work of a restoration professional involve? Every project is different, but there are some core duties that you can expect to perform.

Salvaging Belongings

Even a small fire or water leak can cause a huge mess. The first step in restoring the home or business is to help the owner salvage as many of their belongings as possible. Even things that appear heavily damaged are sometimes salvageable. As a restoration professional, you’ll learn to identify the level of damage and how likely salvage is.

Removing Debris

After salvaging all the belongings that can be saved, the next crucial step is removing the debris left behind by the disaster. The scope of this task varies depending on the extent of the damage caused. For smaller debris and general cleanup, you may need essentials like work gloves and trash bags. However, for more substantial debris and larger cleanup operations in fire restoration, heavy machinery might be required.

Extracting Water

In the event of a major flood, it typically takes 24-48 hours for mold to set in. So one of your early tasks will be to remove as much water as possible, as quickly as possible. You might use various equipment, including submersible pumps, fans, and heaters, depending on the exact nature of the flood.

Mitigating Further Damage

It’s always a smart idea to check for mold after a flood or hazardous contamination after a fire. In addition, the building may be structurally compromised. Once everything is out of the way, you’ll need to assess the site for any remaining hazards and do everything you can to mitigate the risks of additional damage.

Rebuilding

For many restoration experts, and certainly, for the building owner, this is the fun part. Some owners want everything rebuilt exactly as it was. Others take advantage of the opportunity to add upgrades or even redesign the space altogether. Either way, it can be deeply satisfying to see the new construction replaces what was previously the scene of a disaster.

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Leveraging Technology in Construction Projects: Trends and Benefits

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 15:47:02 GMT

The construction industry is undergoing a period of rapid evolution. New technology is helping to lower costs, speed up projects, enhance safety, and improve decision-making. But what are the latest trends, and how can you use them to your advantage?

Building Information Modeling (BIM)

In recent months, BIM is arguably the most dramatic and important technology to sweep the construction industry. This allows you to build highly realistic 3D virtual models for each phase of a project’s lifecycle. You can view potential trouble spots, allocate resources more efficiently, and minimize the risk of needing to redo work.

Drones

Drones are being used for everything from site assessments to checking rooftop areas that may need repairs. You can combine drone flyovers with augmented reality to create a realistic look at anything that can’t easily be seen from ground level. When it comes time to send people up ladders, you’ll already know what to expect.

Robotics

Robotics technology is evolving quickly, and autonomous robots are becoming more and more useful in construction. They can work alongside human tradespeople, performing dangerous or distasteful tasks. Smartly deploying robots can dramatically boost job site safety while improving efficiency and accuracy.

Internet of Things

The Internet of Things (IoT) allows you to embed sensors and devices into virtually any construction site. You can track everything from humidity to equipment performance, allowing you to make data-driven decisions to boost efficiency and quality control. And IoT devices can continue to assist long after the project is completed by creating realistic predictive maintenance schedules.

Of course, even the best technology is merely a tool. It’s highly unlikely that automation will ever replace the judgment of an experienced, skilled tradesperson. Carefully choose the tools and technologies that will best support your human teams, and train everyone on how to work with them. These tools are powerful but most effective when closely overseen by knowledgeable humans.

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Choosing Your Construction Career: 5 Questions To Guide You

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 15:50:11 GMT

The construction industry can be an exciting place to build a career. But with so many different skilled trades to choose from, you might not know where to begin. Fortunately, you can start to zero in on which type of construction career is right for you by asking yourself a series of questions.

What Type of Work Excites Me?

Many people who end up choosing a construction career already have some familiarity with different tasks. Maybe you’ve always enjoyed repainting your bedroom or building furniture. Perhaps you helped your uncle rewire his vacation home or assisted your mom with replacing the bathroom tile. Think about the different experiences you’ve had and what you really liked about them.

What Are My Skills and Strengths?

Are you detail-oriented or more of a big-picture person? Do you find more satisfaction in working with your hands directly or operating large machines? Maybe you’re a master at reading blueprints or exceptionally skilled at making oddly sized pieces of metal fit together.

Do I Want to Be a Manager or a Master Craftsperson?

Some construction career paths lead more directly toward management positions. Others focus on spending decades perfecting their craft. While it’s generally easy to switch directions, if you already have a long-term goal in mind, it only makes sense to take a position that leads toward that goal.

Am I Willing to Pursue Further Education or Training?

On-the-job training can take you a long way. But certifications or even college courses can help, especially if your goal is management. And more and more construction companies are starting to adopt new technologies. Some basic programming and robotics courses could be valuable for some career paths.

Do I Enjoy Working as Part of a Team or Do I Prefer Individual Tasks?

All skilled tradespeople are ultimately part of a team. But some tasks, such as welding, are generally performed alone. Whether you prefer the socialization of constantly working alongside others or the solitude of working on your own thing, there is a construction career for you.

There are no right answers, so don’t let this exercise stress you out. The goal is simply to understand yourself a bit better so that you can choose a construction career that makes sense for you. Talking it over with someone who knows the industry deeply, such as an expert recruiter at Great Lakes Skilled Trades, can help. And we won’t charge you a penny for the advice!

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Quality Assurance: Why Hiring Qualified Workers Is Key to Project Success

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 15:54:41 GMT

If you’re a busy construction contractor, you might need skilled trade workers in a hurry. It can be tempting to simply hire whoever shows up, hoping that they can learn on the job. But this is a recipe for disaster. Instead, make an effort to hire people who are highly qualified in their individual trades. Here are a few reasons why it’s worth the trouble.

Achieving High-Quality Standards

As a contractor, you undoubtedly take pride in your work, and you need people with the skills to execute your vision. But a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. How can you ensure that your entire project is up to your standards if your subcontractors are only minimally qualified? The skilled trades are both an art and a science, and it takes time to achieve mastery.

Lowering Costs Due to Errors

It’s always less expensive to simply do the job right the first time. If an unqualified worker measures incorrectly and cuts a countertop too short, you’ll have to spend money to replace it. If the wiring isn’t up to code due to an inexperienced electrician, you’ll have to correct the problem. Choose highly qualified workers, and you’re far less likely to encounter simple but expensive errors.

Maintaining Customer Satisfaction

Most customers hate the construction process. Their home or office has been torn up for weeks, or they’re just waiting for you to finish so they can open a new production facility. The longer the project runs, the more impatient they are likely to become. But inexperienced workers can bog down the entire process. And if something is done incorrectly, you can be sure that your customer will notice. Keep your customers happy by hiring qualified people with the skills to do the job correctly the first time.

Enhancing Productivity

You probably have a lot on your plate. During the busy construction season, you might be juggling multiple projects at different work sites. It’s best for you, your customers, and your teams for each project to run as efficiently as possible. Qualified and experienced subcontractors can make that happen, boosting productivity and getting the job done, even when you aren’t on-site.

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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensuring Construction Site Safety

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 16:00:00 GMT

Personal protective equipment, or PPE, is critical to ensure safety on a construction site. It’s generally provided by your employer (other than steel-toed boots) and protects you from various hazards that you are likely to encounter on a work site. Using PPE is non-negotiable, and failing to use it could get you fired. If you’re involved in a workplace incident and you weren’t using the provided PPE, your worker’s compensation claim could be denied. Here’s a look at some common types of PPE and when they are generally needed.

Hard Hat

Job sites are filled with hazards that could affect your head, from falling objects to construction debris. A hard hat is essential to protecting yourself from a concussion or worse. Hard hats are required by OSHA (the Occupational Safety and Health Administration) when warranted by site conditions.

Safety Glasses

Flying debris, chemical exposure, and fine dust in the air are just a few reasons you might need to wear safety glasses on a job site. You may also need a face shield, depending on the specific circumstances.

High-Visibility Clothing

On project sites where lighting conditions are low, or you are around vehicles and heavy equipment activity, high-visibility clothing is mandatory. Such clothing includes vests and t-shirts designed to maximize your visibility and reduce the risk of serious accidents.

Gloves

Workers regularly come into contact with materials that could cause hand injuries, from sharp sheet metal to different types of tools. Gloves are a work site essential, though the specific type you wear will depend on the project you are working on.

Ear Protection

Loud noises can permanently damage your hearing, so you will likely be given ear protection on many different types of work sites. If you are working with or near saws, jackhammers, or anything else that produces sounds at over 85 decibels, you should be wearing earplugs or protective earmuffs.

Face Mask or Respirator

A basic face mask can protect you against dust in the air, while harsher gasses or sprays typically require a heavier-duty respirator. Your employer should provide whatever type of breathing protection is warranted by the circumstances on your particular job site.

Steel-Toed Boots

This is the only PPE that you will likely be required to purchase yourself. But one good pair of steel-toed boots can last for many years. Think of them as a basic clothing item you should wear on any job site. They’ll protect your feet from the many, many hazards present on virtually every site.

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Costly Mistakes in Construction Projects: How to Avoid Them

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 16:03:40 GMT

Some construction errors and delays are inevitable. But you can minimize the effects of these costly mistakes by preparing for them before they occur. Here are three things you can do to keep your construction projects moving smoothly.

Effective Project Planning

The best way to minimize construction errors is to take the time to fully plan out each project in advance. This will allow you to more accurately estimate costs, as well as to identify potential risks and come up with a plan to avoid them. Make sure you thoroughly map out each phase of the project, from initial designs through inspection and final client sign-off.

Resource Management

The global pandemic laid bare the risks associated with just-in-time (JIT) deliveries. Although most resource shortages have eased, we now know that anything can happen. Careful resource management can ensure that you have the materials you need when you need them at a reasonable cost. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution to account for overruns, damage, and other drains on resources.

Risk Mitigation Techniques

While project planning and resource management can reduce the likelihood of construction errors, risk mitigation means having a plan to deal with them if they occur. During the planning phase, you should have identified areas of particular risk. Now is the time to decide what you can do about those risks. This can help you save substantial amounts of money by averting potential accidents, minimizing delays, and lowering the likelihood of legal complications.

Construction errors are inevitable. If left unchecked, they can cause costs to skyrocket or even sink a project altogether. But effective planning and resource management, coupled with strong risk mitigation techniques, can dramatically reduce the effects of errors on your project. This means stronger and healthier teams, happier customers, higher profits, and preserving your good name in the industry. With so much on the line, it only makes sense to do what you can to reduce and mitigate these errors.

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The Art of Collaboration: Working On A Team During Large Projects

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 16:06:33 GMT

In the skilled trades, large projects often require lots of workers to be on the job site at the same time. But this can quickly devolve into chaos and confusion if each person doesn’t do their part to keep the team moving smoothly. Here are a few essentials that can help you navigate a complex project with many team members while ensuring that your own work gets done efficiently.

Well-Defined Roles

On a busy job site, you can’t just leave it up to each person to decide what they’re going to do and when they’re going to do it. Otherwise, you’re likely to have some people running around in circles while others trip over each other in a particularly crowded spot. Large projects need to be choreographed like a dance, with each person taking responsibility for specific tasks.

Communication

Conflict is inevitable when a lot of people are working closely together. But nearly every situation can be resolved with strong communication skills. Speak up when something first becomes an issue rather than wait for it to get worse. Explain your needs and really listen when the other person explains theirs. Also, be sure to state clearly and loudly when you are doing something that could be dangerous to others. Just like chefs and line cooks yell “Behind!” when carrying hot food past someone else, you need to let people know when there’s a risk to them.

Negotiation

Sometimes your goals won’t align with someone else’s. For example, you might both want to work in a particularly narrow area of the job site. In this case, your negotiation skills can keep things moving smoothly. Clearly explain what you need and ask the other person what they need. Offer solutions and discuss them until you land on something that works well for both of you. And remember, the point of negotiation isn’t to get everything you want. It’s to ensure that both sides get some of what they want.

Leadership

Ultimately, someone has to take responsibility for your team’s contributions to large projects. If that’s you, make sure to show good leadership skills. Lead by example, fairly mitigate disputes, and always give credit to your team for a job well done.

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Current Trends in the Skilled Trades Industry

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 16:09:39 GMT

If you haven’t been paying close attention, it might seem like the skilled trades industry hasn’t changed much in decades. After all, drywall still goes up the same way it always has. Painters can still be found on every job site, working their magic with rollers and brushes. But if you dig a little deeper, you’ll find some current trends that are revolutionizing the industry behind the scenes. Here’s what you should know.

Automation and Robotics

Despite media hype, we are far from robots replacing skilled human workers—if they ever actually do. But the skilled trades are starting to incorporate these technologies to make work faster, safer, and more efficient. For example, you might see a roofer sending a drone to determine the scope of the work and identify any dangerous spots before climbing up.

And automation can vastly improve speed by streamlining the supply chain to ensure that skilled tradespeople have everything they need for the job. It can also provide an underlying network of support, ensuring that when onsite tradespeople run into complex issues, they can easily contact experts in the field for consultation and advice.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial intelligence has gotten a bad rap lately, but it can be tremendously beneficial for the skilled trades industry. In particular, it can help penetrate walls, ceilings, and even crawl spaces to identify issues. Imagine no longer having to tear out an entire section of a home to look for mold or bad wiring. In the near future, AI-powered vision sensors may be able to probe for specific problems and tell the human worker exactly where to look.

Sustainable Building Practices

It’s no longer possible to ignore the impacts of human activities on the environment. Sustainable building practices have become incredibly important to many consumers and companies alike. These run the gamut from alternative building materials such as bamboo to water recycling systems. Contractors should be aware of the options in order to serve environmentally conscious customers better.

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Carpentry For Beginners: Tips For Getting Started In The Trade

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 16:12:25 GMT

Carpentry can be an excellent career choice for those who enjoy working with their hands. It pays well, there is plenty of room for advancement, and jobs are plentiful. But you can’t just wake up one day and decide to call yourself a carpenter. Here’s how to get started in the trade.

Learn the Basics

Like any job, carpentry requires some core skills. As you gain knowledge and experience, you will build on these skills to vastly improve your craftsmanship. But in the beginning, you need to know how to:

Measure accurately
Operate a variety of tools, such as chisels, hammers, and saws
Cut a straight line
Use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as goggles and dust masks
Keep a worksite clean, organized, and free from hazards

You can learn many of these skills on your own, through home projects or hobbies. They may seem simple, but they are skills you will use on every job throughout your career.

Get Some Training

You have options when deciding how to learn the carpentry trade. You might work as a carpenter’s helper or a general laborer for a carpentry business. These positions allow you to work side by side with an experienced carpenter, learning the trade as you go along.

Another option is to attend trade school. You’ll get both classroom and hands-on training and will likely complete an apprenticeship as part of your education. If you learn best in a more formalized setting, this may be the right option for you.

Land Your First Job

Once you have some training and experience under your belt, you’ll be ready to apply for your first job as a carpenter. If you’re interested in a particular type of carpentry, such as cabinet making or finish carpentry, now is the time to start looking for entry-level positions in your area of choice. Or you could stick with more general carpentry positions for now and consider whether to specialize later in your career.

Either way, you’ll need to prove that you have the skills and background to be successful. Highlight the training you have received and projects you have completed both on your resume and in your interview. It takes years to become a master carpenter, but many companies are willing to take a chance on someone new who has put in the work to learn the basics of the trade.

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Maximizing Productivity: Managing Multiple Projects and Workers

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 16:16:06 GMT

It can be difficult to manage multiple projects and workers at one time. But as a contractor, you will constantly find yourself juggling various teams of subcontractors. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to maximize your productivity and do a better job of managing multiple teams. Here are some suggestions.

Learn All You Can

You don’t need to become an expert in a skilled trade. But try to learn the basics of each trade that you regularly work with, especially some of the lingo. You’ll find that communication is smoother, easier, and more productive when everyone is speaking the same basic language.

Stay Organized

It’s easy to become overwhelmed with multiple teams constantly coming and going from the job site. And construction projects are frequently hit with delays, which can throw the entire schedule into chaos. Use technology to keep each project organized, with details about each subcontracting team, projected work dates, and important communications all in one spot. This will help you plan each day while making it easier to get information about delays or changes out to everyone impacted.

Focus on the Forest…And the Trees

Part of being a good contractor is seeing both the big picture and the small details. Maintain a clear and coherent vision of the overall project. But zoom in frequently to take a look at all the small processes that make it happen. Learning to switch back and forth confidently will help you keep your projects and subcontractors on track.

Work with a Skilled Trades Staffing Agency

Outsourcing your subcontracting needs to a dedicated skilled trades staffing agency lets you let go of the daily hassles. You’ll be in charge of each project, but we’ll provide the highly skilled teams you need and take care of general oversight. You’ll be free to focus your attention on the core parts of your business. And if things change on a dime, just let us know. We’ll take responsibility for communicating that information to the subcontractor teams.

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Building A Positive Work Culture For Subcontracted Employees

Tue, 23 May 2023 16:19:16 GMT

Working with subcontractors is a way of life for any contractor. But these temporary workers can sometimes feel like outsiders. It’s worth making the effort to help them feel welcome and like part of the team, though. They will be more engaged and more productive, creating a direct positive effect on your bottom line. And they will be more likely to want to return for future projects, giving you an ongoing pipeline of subcontractors you know and like. Here are some easy ways to build a positive work culture for them.

Make Communication Easy

As a contractor, you are an expert in the business side of your company. You know how to bid on jobs, plan projects, pull permits, and more. And you also have some knowledge of each skilled trade involved, from painting to carpentry. But your subcontractors are experts in those skilled trades. They can assess their part of the project and quickly determine which materials and methods are best. They’re also your eyes and ears on the ground, and they can often spot a potential problem brewing before it is out of control.

So it only makes sense to set up multiple lines of communication. Give your subcontractors your office and cell phone numbers. Check-in on them at least every couple of days. Encourage them to share their thoughts.

Listen, Then Act

When subcontractors come to you with an issue or an idea, take the time to listen. Use active listening techniques such as clarifying and restating to ensure you understand what they’re saying. Then take action. You won’t necessarily be able to do exactly what the person is hoping for, but you might work together to brainstorm alternate solutions that would fit your business needs and the client’s requirements.

Value Everyone’s Input

Some contractors genuinely believe that they work well with subcontractors, but they only listen to the head of each team. Remember that even the newest electrician or plumber has a unique perspective that is worth exploring. Talk to the people who are actually doing the work, not just the ones who are overseeing them. This shows that you value their contributions and helps to create a positive work culture. And it just might lead to an innovative solution that hadn’t occurred to anyone else.

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Important Skills to Include on Your Electrician Resume

Tue, 16 May 2023 16:22:21 GMT

It’s only natural to want to land the best possible job in your field. And one of the most important things you can do to achieve that goal is to ensure your resume stands out. If you’re an electrician, your skills are what will set you apart from the competition. But which skills should you highlight on your electrician resume? Let’s take a look.

Technical Skills

Also known as hard skills, these should form the backbone of your electrician resume. “Electrician” is a pretty broad category, so listing your technical skills is a great way to show potential employers exactly what you know how to do. Examples include, but are not limited to:

Installing electrical systems, including cables and tubing
Electrical maintenance
Using small hand tools
Testing electrical equipment
Utilizing and troubleshooting programmable logic controllers (PLCs)
Knowledge of the National Electric Code as well as relevant local codes
Quality assurance

Soft Skills

Also known as people skills, these are transferrable across all industries. They consist of the skills that make life at work run more smoothly and should always be included on your electrician resume. Soft skills include, but are not limited to:

Organization
Communication
Problem-solving
Creative thinking
Flexibility
Professionalism

Supplemental Skills

Depending on the exact position you are going for, you may also want to list other types of skills on your resume. These might include:

Business skills, such as cost estimating and project planning
Physical skills, such as manual dexterity or the ability to fit into tight spaces
Leadership skills, such as people management and conflict resolution

You can acquire the skills you need for your electrician resume in various ways. Technical skills typically come from certification programs or on-the-job training. But you might gain other skills from school projects, volunteer experiences, or unrelated jobs. When you sit down to write your resume, be sure to think through all of your different life experiences and how what you learned might be valuable in your work as an electrician.

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Navigating Regulations and Requirements in Heavy Industrial Projects

Tue, 09 May 2023 16:27:18 GMT

Heavy industrial projects, including construction, are governed by several legal regulations and requirements. Failure to comply could result in fines or, if there are any injuries or property damages, even expensive lawsuits. There are federal, state, and local laws, so you will need to make sure you know exactly what is required where you do business. In general, though, anyone working on heavy industrial projects must know the following.

OSHA Regulations

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of Labor. This agency is responsible for ensuring safe work conditions. As the construction industry is inherently hazardous, OSHA has created significant regulations and guidelines designed to improve its safety.

OSHA requirements govern everything from personal protective equipment (PPE) to fire prevention and safe handling of hazardous chemicals. As a contractor, you are responsible for knowing and enforcing all OSHA regulations on every job site.

Environmental Permits

Heavy industrial projects can have a significant impact on the environment. Environmental concerns are managed by the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Some states have also implemented additional standards. Depending on the nature of your work, you will likely need to obtain environmental permits from the EPA as well as your state (if applicable).

Insurance Requirements

There are many different types of insurance within the construction industry. Exactly what you will need depends on the specific projects you do, your state’s requirements, and the amount of risk you are willing to assume. With heavy industrial projects, though, it is generally best to err on the side of caution. Types of insurance that may be required or recommended include:

General liability
Professional liability
Builder’s risk
Worker’s compensation
Commercial auto
Commercial property
Errors and omissions

It’s always best to consult with an insurance agent in your state that has experience with heavy industrial projects. They can assess your risks and make suggestions that match your unique needs.

Building Codes

State and local authorities set building codes based on standards issued by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). These codes govern everything from electrical and plumbing systems to fire safety and the ability to withstand hazardous weather conditions. Make sure you know and follow all of the building codes that govern each project.

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HVAC Technician Certifications and Education

Tue, 02 May 2023 08:24:43 GMT

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. An HVAC technician is responsible for all aspects of a building’s climate control system, ensuring that it maintains the proper temperature and humidity level. Some HVAC technicians work solely on residential equipment, others on commercial or industrial systems, and some do both. If you want to get into this industry, you will need to become certified. Here’s what you should know.

What Does an HVAC Technician Do?

HVAC technicians not only install climate control systems, but they are also responsible for maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair. You will work on equipment in both new construction and existing buildings. Smaller residential systems are typically quite simple, while large industrial systems can be highly complex. Either way, you must be an expert in all parts of the system.

How Do I Become an HVAC Technician?

First, you will need to earn a high school diploma or GED and then enroll in a training program. You can either enter a certification program, which typically takes less than a year to finish, or earn a two-year associate degree. As part of your training, you will typically complete an apprenticeship. This provides valuable on-the-job experience alongside a seasoned HVAC technician.

Next, you will need to become licensed in your state. Licensure requirements vary, but HVAC technicians in all states must pass the Section 608 Technician Certification exam. Required by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this exam has three levels, depending on the specific type of equipment you plan to work on. It’s generally best to pass all three levels to keep your future career options open.

There are also four additional certifications offered by the North American Technician Excellence (NATE) organization. While these are not required, they can be useful in helping you work your way up the career ladder. They range from an entry-level Ready-to-Work certificate to a Senior Level Efficiency Analyst Certification designed for those with significant experience.

An HVAC technician can be an excellent career choice. Pay rates are competitive, and the industry is largely recession-proof. But you will need to become certified before you begin, and gaining optional certifications as you go along can help you reach the highest levels of this career.

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The Benefits of Outsourcing Your Construction Projects

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 08:30:06 GMT

Outsourcing is the process of shifting a particular part of your business operations to an outside company. You remain in control of the projects, but the company you contract with handles the staffing and all of the day-to-day concerns. If you’re a contractor, outsourcing your subcontracting needs to a specialized staffing agency can be a smart business decision. Here’s why:

Expertise

As you know, construction is a complex business. From pulling permits to final inspections, there are a lot of moving parts in even the smallest construction project. No matter how good you are at your job, at times, you may feel like you are running in circles to ensure that everything happens on time and on budget. But what about all the subcontractors you need? Searching for each skilled trade individually can be maddening.

Outsourcing these projects to a dedicated construction and skilled trades staffing agency means giving up the hassles and headaches. We are familiar with the entire construction process from start to finish, allowing us to easily understand the specifics of each project. And we have the skilled trades experts you need already on staff. No more running around looking for subcontractors or trying to explain the overall vision to a bunch of different teams.

Time and Cost Savings

The more time you spend dealing with subcontractors on a particular project, the less time you have available for other projects. Outsourcing frees you up to focus on the parts of each job that only you can do.

It can also save you money. As you know, construction mistakes can be quite costly. Anything that doesn’t meet the code will have to be ripped out and redone. A poor choice of materials could result in leaks or other issues that lead to expensive repairs. Even a subcontractor who is working more slowly than necessary might cause other work to back up, creating expensive delays.

Outsourcing can help minimize cost overruns. With all the experts you need on a single payroll, we can maintain strong oversight over your subcontractors.

Improved Speed and Efficiency

Since all of the subcontractors are on our payroll, we can manage timelines to ensure maximum efficiency. Your projects can get done more quickly, without you having to constantly check up on all the different teams.

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What Does a Pipe Fitter Do Exactly?

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 08:35:14 GMT

If you’re looking for a new career in the skilled trades, you might have come across job postings for pipe fitters. But what exactly is a pipe fitter, and what do they do all day? Here is what you should know.

What Is a Pipe Fitter?

A pipe fitter is sort of like a plumber. But instead of working on small residential or commercial pipes, pipe fitters work on large, high-pressure industrial systems. Pipefitters may work in refineries, energy plants, or large factories. Some pipefitters work with highly complex systems of specialized pipes, requiring expert-level skills and knowledge.

What Should I Expect Day to Day?

Pipefitters can expect a lot of variety in their daily tasks. You might visit multiple sites throughout the course of a day, each with unique needs. The basics of the job consist of installing and maintaining pipes. But specific tasks vary from reading blueprints to working with a variety of cutting and shaping tools to testing systems and making needed repairs.

Is Pipe Fitting For Me?

This can be a great position for someone who is methodical, comfortable with frequently changing work locations and conditions, and good at solving puzzles. You’ll need a fair amount of physical strength, as well as the ability to work both inside and outside in all kinds of weather. You will need good communication skills to explain any issues you find, as well as critical thinking and the ability to stay calm under pressure. In exchange, you can make a very good living in a role that is always in high demand.

Qualifications

The requirements to become a pipe fitter vary by state and locality. You may need to go to a trade school or complete an apprenticeship. You might need a license and/or various types of certifications either to become a pipe fitter in your area or to work on specific types of projects. Read the job description carefully to find out what is required for a specific position.

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Ensure Construction Safety This Spring

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 08:45:28 GMT

May is Construction Safety Month, so now is a great time to review your site safety practices. A strong safety management program doesn’t only reduce the risk of workplace injuries. It also boosts morale, enhances recruitment, improves productivity, and can increase your reputation in the community. Here are a few ways to ensure construction safety this spring and throughout the year.

Ongoing Training

Safety training should not be a one-time thing. Your safety practices should evolve over time as new regulations or better ways of doing things emerge. Regularly teaching new safety practices, as well as reinforcing existing ones is the best way to keep safety at the top of everyone’s minds.

Proper Equipment

Many workplace accidents are due to improper safety gear, tools, or other equipment. When working on a busy job site, construction workers often switch from one task to another, and it’s all too easy to skip gathering all the required gear and equipment. Set the expectation that every worker will use all proper equipment at all times, no matter how small the task, with consequences for non-compliance.

Time and Budget Considerations

Time and budget are constant concerns for any contractor. But workplace injuries are extremely expensive and can even shut down your entire project. Don’t be tempted to let safety slide in the interest of deadlines or cost savings. When estimating a job, base your figures on following all safety requirements. If a project starts to rack up overruns, find other places to make cuts while preserving worker safety.

Adapting to an Aging Workforce

Many construction workers have been in the business for decades. While this brings skills and knowledge that can only be learned through experience, it also brings a higher risk of work-related injuries. Update your safety protocols to include ergonomics, lighter tools, and other measures to help protect older employees.

Tracking and Data Sharing

Workers, managers, and other stakeholders are more likely to buy into a construction safety program if they can see the results. Tracking also helps you see how well your protocols are working and if you need to make changes. Use technology to track trends and create custom reports that you can then share with people across all levels of your company.

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2023 construction trends

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 08:54:02 GMT

Ask a contractor what he/she expects in the industry in 2023 and here’s what you’ll hear. On the plus side, 2023 could see the backlog of infrastructure break loose as regulatory hurdles are overcome. That will be a nice addition. On the minus side, though, some familiar problems will remain in place, namely the difficulty of finding talented workers and the supply chain crisis. Here is a look at 2023 construction trends.

Those were the conclusions of the Associated General Contractors of America’s 2023 Construction Outlook National Survey. The AGC surveyed more than 1,000 contractors across the country for the survey. The Associated General Contractors of America is the leading association for the construction industry. AGC represents more than 27,000 firms.

In this blog post, we’ll look at the findings from the survey.

Supply chain top concern for contractors

Contractors’ biggest concern for 2023 is the supply chain. It’s been more than three years since the start of the pandemic but still the problems persist—product deliveries continue to show up late and prices continue to rise—with most contractors surveyed having experienced project delays or cancellations. Supply chain problems have inflated the costs of many construction materials and delayed deliveries of those products. Contractors said they have responded to these problems by accelerating purchases after winning contracts, by trying out alternative suppliers and alternative materials and stockpiling materials before winning contracts.

It’s been a maddening three years for contractors. One week, a particular material will be in short supply while the week following it’s a different product. Try making cost estimates and production schedules in this environment.

In response, contractors do what they can, such as investing in technologies and techniques to make their operations more efficient and less vulnerable to supply chain challenges.

“There are two things here,” said Brian Turmail, Vice President of Public Affairs and Strategic Initiatives with AGC. “One is rising material prices. We track the Producer Price Index and in the most recent numbers, December, there seemed to be some easing of inflationary pressure. Since there, though, there have been signs that prices are still going up and there’s not much light at the end of the tunnel.

“The second thing is the availability of product—trusting that your products are going to arrive on the agreed-upon day. It seems to be getting better. Better, not great. If the supplier says your materials are going to arrive on Wednesday, the chances are better now than they were a year that that actually will be the case.”

Infrastructure work coming?

The contractors surveyed were hopeful that this will be the year—finally—that we see the benefits of a flurry new of federal investment in infrastructure flowing from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Few contractors surveyed reported having been awarded projects. To date, the hoped-for projects have languished in a strangle of red tape. In particular, the administration had bungled the implementation of the so-called Buy America regulations. It’s not clear to state and local regulators what building materials are covered by the legislation—so they sit on their hands.

“We asked survey respondents if they’d pick up any infrastructure work in 2022 and the numbers were quite low. There are expectations that that’s going to get better. But it’s just expectations, not a reality yet,” Brian said.

“There are things public officials can do to accelerate these infrastructure projects. They need to decide if they want to be known as the guys who are snarling this up in red tape.”

While contractors remain hopeful about federally funded infrastructure projects, they are less bullish about other sectors. Higher interest rates and evolving work and shopping patterns are impacting office, retail, hospitality, and multifamily residential demand. Likewise, the prospect of a slowing economy—perhaps even a recession—has dimmed the short-term outlook for warehouses, data centers, and manufacturing plants.

Talent shortage still a major problem

Contractors surveyed expected to hire more workers in 2023—somehow. That is, the need is there but not the workers. With not enough workers projects take longer and cost more. Eighty percent of respondents reported having difficulty findings workers—and most expected those difficulties to persist. Very few new workers are entering the construction labor pool domestically and from other countries.

Trying to cope, nearly three-quarters of contractors surveyed have boosted pay and a third have offered signing bonuses and improved their selection of benefits. “We are planning for this to be a long-term challenge,” Brian said.

“One bit of hope we have is that some segments of the economy may be moving into layoff mode. They may be letting people go—people who could find a career in construction. Meanwhile, we do see an increase in contractors working with public schools to create construction-focused programs.”

2023 construction trends

The construction industry is constantly evolving and new trends are likely to emerge as technology advances and society’s needs change. By embracing these trends and adopting new technologies and practices, construction companies can stay ahead of the curve and remain competitive in an increasingly crowded marketplace.

Did you like this post? Check out Process improvement for contractors.

Process improvement for contractors

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 08:59:23 GMT

Contractors, do you have a handle on your business processes? Do you know exactly how you conduct each critical activity that makes up your business—common construction firm processes such as Sales, Pre-Construction, Procurement, Construction, Change Management, and Closeout—and do you know why you do each process the way you do? And are your processes documented somewhere so that when new people come on board you can easily train them?

Sometimes when you ask a contractor this question you get a blank stare or an answer to the effect of, “We haven’t gotten around to writing processes yet. It’s been on our to-do list for years.”

At small and medium-sized contractors what you often find is that the processes they use to run their business have been cobbled together over the years and they exist just in people’s heads and are passed down by word of mouth. That’s a recipe for inefficiency and stalled growth. But process improvement can fix all that.

That’s what this post is about, process improvement for contractors. First, we will look at how to tackle process improvement. Then we’ll consider a couple of case studies. Finally, we’ll look at some special considerations when it comes to processes and technology.

Ready? Let’s go.

Finding out how things get done exactly

To answer this question, we went to Andrea Wright, CEO of CTP Solutions, LLC. , based out of Beverly Hills, Mich. She helps small to medium-sized construction firms understand, streamline and document their processes—and then create systems to train new hires in those documented processes.

Andrea created CTP after taking her degree in architecture and then working on construction sites as a project manager, super, and project engineer. Then she worked inside at construction companies to create training programs, implement change, and create processes.

“Contractors come to me when they’ve been banging their head against the wall and losing money,” she said. “They typically know they need processes and/or training programs and just can’t seem to get it done on their own. It’s often from lack of time or lack of knowing how or where to get started.”

Her first job with a new client is typically discovery—finding out how things get done exactly.

“I’m a good listener, and because I know the construction industry I can ask them the right questions to get the right answers. I find the subject matter experts in the firm and push and probe and help them to put into words the processes that they operate their business with. I help them figure out what they should do first, then second, then third—and so on.”

Then she helps the contractor document those processes and create training systems to perpetuate the processes.

Two case studies

Let’s look at a couple of case studies.

First off, a GC from Detroit contacted Andrea to revive their out-of-date processes. For example, change orders were not being completed consistently. Often, they would lose money because simple general conditions items were missed, such as charging for their own time to complete the work associated with the change order.

Andrea also was able to remove many redundancies and clarify some grey areas and make handoffs more efficient. For example, she helped them create a simple checklist of documents and information to be handed off from estimating to operations at the start of job. Now new hires were able to learn processes quickly and existing team members were taught to complete tasks the way the company expected them to be done.

She also “branded” their process, meaning she gave them a common look and feel—a particular header and footer, for example. That way employees know they’re looking at an official process and not just some random document.

The second GC operated out of Illinois, and they called Andrea because they had many initiatives that were living only in the heads of leadership, some that were not taking hold, and some that were stalled.

Andrea helped them visualize what they really wanted to accomplish and then created the plan of action to get it done. One of the top initiatives was to figure out why a new job role previously rolled out (and asked for by the employees) was not taking hold. After digging into what was going on, the solution was to relaunch and help everyone affected by the change to understand what was staying the same, what was no longer being done, and what new tasks were being performed. Once this was cleared up, the role was embraced with ease.

Another top initiative was to create processes and put them in a location that was easily accessible by team members in the field, in the office, or at home. She worked with several subject matter experts to capture their processes. Each person shared their information differently and with varying detail. She worked with each person to get the necessary information and wrote the processes in a consistent format and then organized them into software that was easily accessed by everyone from the office to the field. She still works with them today on launching new initiatives and coaching various members of their team.

The link between processes and technology

When she works with construction firms on streamlining and documenting their processes, she often finds herself intersecting with technology. More and more, processes in a construction firm involve some sort of technology/software. This leads to a common mistake. Too many times, construction firms try to customize their software to fit into their existing, inefficient processes.

“Don’t take your processes—the routines you’re used to—and try to morph the software to fit your processes. Instead, take the software and change your processes to use the software as it was meant to be used. Once you understand how the software operates, you can move forward with how to customize if you still feel it is necessary. Why would you spend all this money on software and then not understand how it’s supposed to work?”

For example, it’s not uncommon for contractors to build new change management software and then try to alter the code to match their processes.

Process improvement for contractors

So what’s the state of your processes, contractor? Are they all streamlined and documented. Do the tasks get done in your firm the same way no matter who’s performing them? Is it hard to train new people because of the lack of standard, documented processes? Maybe now’s the time to tackle those old processes.

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How contractors can work safely during winter

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 09:14:31 GMT

Hibernation is for bears. Contractors, they’ve still got bills to pay, businesses to grow—so they’ll find ways to get as much work as possible done in the frigid winter. There’s definitely opportunity, but there is a big proviso: There are a whole new set of construction safety concerns to be aware of during the winter. That’s what this blog post is about: How contractors can work safely during winter.

We’ll start by considering the number one concern for winter construction: cold stress . Then we’ll look at how to avoid slips, trips, and falls on the job site during winter. When you finish the article, you should have some actionable items you can put into practice this winter.

Ready? Let’s go.

Cold stress: winter’s main challenge

In the summer months in the Great Lakes area, the concern is heat stress in its several forms: heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. During the winter months, the concern is cold stress in its several forms: hypothermia, frostbite, and trench foot.

What is cold stress? The body works hard to maintain its temperature in the cold. As the surrounding cold air draws heat away, the body works to keep the internal core—the chest and abdomen—warm. This shifts blood flow away from the skin, hands, arms, feet, and legs. These areas quickly cool, putting workers at risk for hypothermia, frostbite, and trench foot.

Hypothermia occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce it. Symptoms include fatigue, confusion, disorientation, excessive shivering, and loss of coordination.
Frostbite is the crystallization of tissue in freezing temperatures. Ice begins to form inside and around skin cells. The ice blocks the movement of blood through capillaries, depriving body tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Early warning signs are numbness, a pins-and-needles feeling on the skin, blue and blotchy skin, and aches in the affected area.
Trench foot , also called immersion foot syndrome, occurs when one’s feet stay wet and cold. Basically, trench foot is your feet rotting. To prevent heat loss, the body constricts blood vessels to shut down circulation in the feet. If left untreated, one’s toes can fall off! Early warning signs are redness of the skin, swelling, numbers, and even blisters.

Ways you can avoid cold stress on a construction site:

Be aware of weather forecasts. Keeping an eye on the weather forecast will prevent you from sending your workers out in dangerous conditions such as a blizzard or hailstorm. Regularly check the weather through your local news and the National Weather Service.
Train your workers. Make sure to give your on-site team a refresher on winter-related health and safety hazards. Don’t assume your workers know how to work outside during winter. Make sure your workers know the warning signs of cold stress. If a worker exhibits any signs of illness or injury, emergency help must be called immediately.
Require the correct clothing and gear. Workers should wear layers whenever necessary, including an insulating, moisture-wicking base layer and a waterproof outer layer. Workers should also wear insulated, waterproof boots with nonslip soles, as well as warm socks and hats, and gloves with grips for the safe handling of equipment.
Work later. If possible, schedule work in the afternoon when the day will be its warmest.
Schedule regular breaks. This can be a heated trailer or tent or some other area that gets them out of the elements. You might even want to supply hot cocoa and holiday cookies at a special treat!
Pair up workers. This allows them to keep a close eye on each other for symptoms of cold stress.

Slips, trips and falls subhead

According to the National Safety Council, slips, trips, and falls are the third most common cause of non-fatal workplace injury and the second most common cause of workplace fatality. While these workplace accidents can happen at any time of year, winter weather conditions add even more fall hazards and significantly increase the probability of these types of accidents.

So what should you do?

Each day before work resumes, the super should walk the site and ensure snow is removed, salt or sand is put down and large patches of ice are chipped away. Snow and ice on overhangs and rooftops should be regularly cleared to prevent falling to the ground level. It must be kept in mind that snow can hide dangerous materials that can fall to a lower level and injure a worker.

If at all possible, don’t schedule work on rooftops or other elevated surfaces after it snows. If that work is unavoidable, make sure your workers have fall protection equipment—and know how to use it.

And, no matter how time sensitive the construction job is, workers should avoid working on scaffolding in ice and snow.

How contractors can work safely during winter

Winter’s the off-season for construction in the Great Lakes area. But that doesn’t mean you can relax your vigilance on-site safety. Show your skilled tradespeople that their safety is your number one concern. With these tips, you are ready to tackle the unique challenges winter brings to the construction industry and help protect your workers from potentially life-threatening accidents and injuries. Wondering how contractors can work safely during winter? Follow these tips.

Finally, during winter you may need to quickly enlarge or contract your workforce depending on the weather. The best way to handle with is with temporary labor. Great Lakes Skilled Trades is the go-to provider and skilled trades temporary labor in the Great Lakes region. Connect with us to see how we may be able to help your business.

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How contractors and skilled tradespeople can get started with LinkedIn

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 09:44:17 GMT

When it comes to getting ahead—that is, landing better and better jobs and/or growing your business—the old cliché is so true: It’s all about who you know.

That is, it’s all about networking.

It used to be that networking took place in meeting rooms at your local Denny’s or some such establishment. The monthly Rotary Club gathering. The internet changed all that. Now people network online.

There are hundreds of places on the internet to network on personal matters. But the premier platform for business networking is LinkedIn. Number two is . . . well, don’t even worry about number two. They’re too insignificant to bother with.

Millions upon millions of businesspeople use LinkedIn every day to form mutually beneficial relationships—or “connections” as they’re known on LinkedIn. The point of LinkedIn is not to have the largest list of connections, the way people amass their list of followers on, say, Facebook. You only want to connect with people on LinkedIn you want to network with—someone you can help or vice versa.

Your connections are the people you’ll be building trust with through your activity on LinkedIn. To whom do you send a connection request? Include these types of people:

Coworkers and colleagues, past and present
Members of LinkedIn groups you belong to
People you met at seminars, workshops, etc.
Customers
Prospects
Industry leaders you can learn from.

Every time you log on to LinkedIn, the program suggests a host of people you’re probably going to want to connect with, based on their experience and skills.

To make a person a connection on LinkedIn, you have to send them a formal request through the platform. They’ll be more likely to respond favorably to your request if you take a few minutes to write an accompanying note. Doesn’t have to be lengthy. Show you’ve looked over their LinkedIn profile. Maybe mention something you have in common. End by saying, “I’d appreciate the opportunity to connect with you on LinkedIn.”

Do not make a sales pitch of any kind in this message. That’s a great way to get your request discarded. There will be time to do that as your online relationship progresses.

How to get started with LinkedIn

Your “home page” on LinkedIn is your profile. “Joining” LinkedIn means creating a profile on LinkedIn. It’s easy—but take it seriously. A good profile—or an “All-Star Profile” as LinkedIn calls them—will make you findable on Linkedin.

There are several parts to a LinkedIn profile:

The most important part of your profile is what’s “above the fold,” to use the newspaper term—that is, the stuff at the top of your profile, specifically, your personal photo, your banner photo, and your headline/tagline.

Experts say you only have about three seconds to impress someone on LinkedIn. They glance at the items above the fold on your profile and they ask themselves these questions:

Is this person “for real?”
Do they “know their stuff?”
Can they help me?
Can I help them?

All within three seconds.

So it behooves you to get this “above the fold” stuff right.

Banner photo The banner photo is a rectangular photo that covers much of the top of the screen of your profile page. It’s also known as your cover photo. Often, people will use a photo of the geographical market they serve, a downtown skyline perhaps—or maybe a visual representation of their market. For example, a person who sells into the printing market could have a close-up of a printing press. Sometimes, people will have gone onto a service such as Canva and created a cover photo that is a graphic with some verbiage on it—perhaps their personal motto or their competitive difference, something to catch the eye in those crucial first three seconds. It’s pretty painless. You can be done in 10 minutes.

Sadly, you see too many profiles that use visually appealing yet irrelevant photos. Sometimes the graphics they create are fuzzy or otherwise illegible. If your “art” doesn’t immediately explain itself, then you’ve probably lost that person. They’ll look at the profile of the next person in their LinkedIn search results. Some people don’t put anything in the banner photo space—so it defaults to LinkedIn’s grey placeholder graphic, which screams, “I don’t pay attention to details!” How’s that for a first impression?

Personal photo This is a professional-style photo. That’s not to say you have to hire a professional photographer. The cameras on our phones are capable of taking amazing portraits that require no more than your ability to aim and click. Have a friend in the office do it for you. And be shown in business attire, not your AC/DC T-shirt. Smile broadly and look straight into the camera.

Headline/tagline This is where you say who you are and what you do, not necessarily your job title. The point is to get people’s attention and make them want to learn more about you. Grab their interest during those three seconds.

A great approach is to state what value you bring to your ideal client. Something like, “I build families’ dream homes.”

After/beneath that you can list complementary verbiage—maybe services you provide or words that highlight your competitive difference.

The headline/tagline is a great spot for keywords. Keywords are phrases related to your job and industry and experience. Also, keywords are the phrases someone would type into LinkedIn’s search field if they were looking for you— finish carpenter , for example.

You have 200 characters total for the headline/tagline so don’t be shy about using every single last character. It will help you get found.

About section This is the second-most important part of your profile after the stuff above the fold. It’s where you talk about your solutions to your ideal client’s problems.

Your About section should be centered on your ideal client, showing that you understand their problems and you have a history of solving those problems.

Also, this is where you should put the keywords that people are using to search on LinkedIn.

At the end of the About section, there should be a call to action . It should be concise, straightforward, and clear about what you want your readers to do after reading your summary. Do you want them to send you a LinkedIn message or check out your website?

Your About section can be up to 2,000 characters.

Endorsements and recommendations This is where you put what’s known as “social proof”—that is, where other people affirm how great you are.

In the endorsements section, you list your most important skills (in the client’s eyes) and then have clients and others endorse you for that skill. It’s a great idea to place your keywords in your skills/endorsements section.

In the recommendations section, well-wishers (typically clients and people you’ve worked with) write brief testimonials to your virtues.

Obviously, the more endorsements and recommendations you have, the more impressive it is.

After you set up your LinkedIn profile, you’re going to want to join a number of groups related to your industry. LinkedIn groups provide a place for professionals in the same industry or with similar interests to share their insights and experiences, ask for guidance, and build valuable connections. You can find groups to join by searching at the top of your homepage or viewing the groups you’ve already joined.

Here are some really good construction LinkedIn groups you’re probably going to want to join:

Linking Construction This popular group is a global forum with more than 159,000 construction professionals.
Construction Project Manager This is a forum where professionals in civil engineering and construction project management share their views and experiences.
Construction Who’s Who This page touts itself as the world’s largest social media network for the construction industry.
Your chapter of the Associated General Contractors of American and Associated Builders and Contractors.

Building your personal brand on LinkedIn by posting content

You’re building a personal brand on LinkedIn. That is, you become known for certain achievements, skills, and areas of expertise. You become known as the “go-to person” in some field.

The phrase is Thought Leader.

How is this done?

You don’t become a Thought Leader by just interacting with individuals on LinkedIn. You become a Thought Leader on LinkedIn by regularly posting content .

What is content? Information. Expertise. Insights. This can take the form of the following:

posting a link to a thought-provoking magazine article, blog post, or video. You’re trying to show people that you’re “in the know” and “up to speed” on the latest in the industry—someone worthy of connecting with. It’s simple to find articles and videos to post on LinkedIn. One thing you can do is create a set of Google Alerts. That is, you tell Google to grab any articles/video it finds related to certain topics or keywords you’ve selected. Then every time Google finds one, it sends it to your email inbox. Also, LinkedIn has a Content Suggestion Tool. Either way, make sure to include a comment on your reaction to the article/video. Too many people on LinkedIn forward articles and videos without a comment. If you’re not impressed enough with the article/video to say a few words about how it affected you, no one else is going to waste their time reading/viewing it.
posting about your company’s history. Tell stories about challenges you’ve faced and how you’ve overcome them. People love stories.
posting “status reports.” Busy with demolition? Working on drywall? Just starting a framing job? Let your connections know about it—with images.
posting when you complete a new project you’re particularly proud of, making a point to note those “extra” touches you and your team added that sent the client over the moon. Make sure to add plenty of photos of the project or maybe even a smartphone video—a guided tour of the project, perhaps?
reposting a post from one of your connections, making sure to add a few introductory thoughts from yourself.
posting a “long-form” blog post you wrote on a hot industry topic that will resonate with people in your industry—perhaps your hard-won insights of a common pain point your ideal clients face. This looks interesting! Who is this person? Long-form can mean anywhere from 1,000 words to 5,000 words. Don’t have time to write a long-form post yourself? Hire a ghostwriter on LinkedIn. Search for LinkedIn ghostwriter and find one with construction industry experience. Easy peasy. Here’s a good example of a long-form post: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/changing-face-skilled-trades-kevin-desmond/
Adding insightful comments to content posted by your connections, the type of comments a Thought Leader would make—the type of comments that other people post comments about.

Some added points about adding any kind of content:

Whenever you post content on LinkedIn, try to have a piece of “art” to go with it—a photo or an illustration. There are a number of places on the internet you can download free photos and illustrations without violating anyone’s copyright—unsplash.com for example. (
Whenever someone comments on your content or “likes” your comment, it represents an opportunity for you to form or nurture a relationship with them. First off, always thank them for the comment. Then add a few insightful words about their comment, maybe closing with a question to extend the conversation. (After a while, an adept Social Seller, you’ll say, “Why don’t we set up a time to meet in person and discuss this?”)
Always include hashtags with your content. What are hashtags? A word or phrase preceded by a hash sign (#), used on social media websites and applications to earmark digital content on a specific topic. Many people search on LinkedIn using hashtags.
LinkedIn advocates the 4-1-1 Rule when comes to the breakdown of your content: For every one original piece of content you share about your brand, share one update from another source, and four reposted pieces of content published by others. This way, you stay “top of mind” for your connections on LinkedIn but you don’t burn yourself out by trying to produce original content from scratch every day.

Wrapping up

Construction industry professionals are relatively new to LinkedIn. Some are still reluctant to join a social media channel they think is built exclusively for marketers and tech specialists. Networking on LinkedIn is important to meet construction professionals who share the same goals and interests as you. When you connect with them, you’re not only adding a new friend to your list but a possible business partner or client.

If you’re in the industry and you’d like to boost your online presence, this is the right time to do it. Create a LinkedIn profile, share content, and network with other pros to expand your connections.

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How contractors can use Yelp to grow their business

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 09:52:31 GMT

What are people saying about your construction company? What’s the word on the street?

Go to Yelp and find out.

Yelp is one of the largest user-generated review sites on the internet. People go to Yelp and leave reviews for businesses of all sorts: restaurants, auto repair joints, accountants—and, yes, contractors.

It’s word of mouth in the Internet Age.

What is Yelp?

Yelp started in 2004 by focusing strictly on restaurant reviews. It caught on quickly. Everybody was going to Yelp and asking “What should I eat?” It worked so well for restaurants, that the people behind Yelp decided to expand. Yelp boasts 142 million unique monthly visitors a month—generating more traffic than YellowPages.com and WhitePages.com, so it’s a great way to convert prospects into customers.

With trusted local business information, photos, and review content, Yelp provides a one-stop platform for consumers to discover, connect and transact with local businesses of all sizes by making it easy to request a quote, join a waitlist or make a reservation, and make an appointment or purchase.

Yelp has many detractors, though. Many small businesses openly complain about Yelp. “The review filtering is blocking all my good reviews!” some say. Yelp’s review filtering algorithm tries to ferret out “phony” reviews—for example, reviews planted by family and friends.

Also, small businesses have complained that Yelp is overly aggressive in selling its premium services. Some businesses are upset that Yelp doesn’t allow them to ask people for reviews. (What do they allow? They allow you to display your badge/widget on your website and at your place of business. The widget links to your Yelp profile. They also are happy to give you Yelp decals, which you can post on your windows at your place of business.) What’s worse, some businesses complain that unless a customer has used Yelp three to five times in the past, their reviews will never show up!

How Yelp works

Here’s how it works. After visiting any business, customers can rate their experience and leave their comments on Yelp. Businesses are given a star rating of one to five, one being the lowest. Once a review is written, it’s public and open for everyone to read. The idea is to help people to make educated decisions based on the completeness and conviction of the reviews combined with the credibility of the reviewer. These reviews are what is known as “social proof” in the world of digital marketing. The reviews allow customers to tell their side of your story—unfiltered—showing you’re a good choice for their next construction job.

First off, create—or “claim,” to use Yelp’s lingo—your business page on Yelp. You may find you already have a page! Customers are allowed to create pages for businesses they want to post a review about. To claim your business page, enter your company’s name into Yelp. Yelp will search its database for your business. If you already have a listing, you can claim it. If it doesn’t, just click “Add to Yelp for free.”
Now it’s time to “optimize” your Yelp page by filling in all your business details, such things as address, phone, hours, email address. You can also add photos—both of your storefront and of finished projects! Then categorize your page. There are 22 main categories and hundreds more subcategories on Yelp.
Complete your “About Your Business” section. This is a way to get that “extra” information in that shows how you separate yourself from the competition. You have 1,500 characters to explain to prospects that you’re the go-to local contractor.
People can find almost any type of local business on Yelp. They use the search bar near the top of the Yelp homepage to search for key terms (e.g., burger, plumber, delivery/takeout or the name of a specific business). Also, they use the location bar to set the geographic region they want to search (e.g., city, neighborhood or your current location). Yelk then displays the businesses that best match the person’s search term. The more positive reviews you receive, the higher your ranking in this list of results. The higher the ranking, the more it says “This business is the best.” For example, here’s the results page for “contractors-remodeling” in Grand Rapids.
Respond to reviews. The reviews on Yelp help you understand what customers think of your business. You can respond to customer reviews, both positive and negative, through a private message (this is best with a negative review) or by posting a public comment that everyone can see. What should you do if you get a negative review? First off, don’t take it personally. Use the review as an opportunity to avoid making the same mistake twice. Most people will reverse their review if they feel the company has responded to their review professionally.
A basic Yelp page is free but the platform also offers premium features. For example, for a dollar a day, you can add a Call To Action button, inviting visitors to book an appointment or obtain a quote. Also for a dollar a day, your can remove the “You Might Also Consider” section, which features links to your competitors.

Wrapping up

The goal of contractor marketing is to position yourself as the expert you are in your service area. In today’s competitive business environment, with online searching becoming the prevalent way of finding service companies, the new “word-of-mouth” referral method has become online reviews via Yelp. Consumers searching for home-service contractors are finding Yelp reviews especially helpful in making selections. If your business isn’t being represented on Yelp, you are at a disadvantage. In fact, to illustrate the impact star ratings have for businesses, Entrepreneur.com cited a study showing one out of three customers were dissuaded from patronizing a business when there was less than a 4-star rating. Get started on Yelp today!

Who are going to be the skilled tradespeople of tomorrow?

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 09:56:58 GMT

Contractors, are you reaching out to local schools to promote construction as a viable career choice?

October was National Careers in Construction Month, a time for everyone in the construction industry to redouble their efforts to get kids interested in construction careers.

The time is now: Forty percent of the construction workforce will retire by 2031. Who is going to take their place?

Here’s a look at what some groups are doing for National Careers in Construction Month:

Build Your Future, a program of the National Center for Construction Education and Research , is encouraging contractors to “take the pledge”—that is, sign up on their website and promise to make at least one “classroom engagement,” virtual or in person. Contractors who take the pledge will be entered into a drawing for one of four $5,000 scholarships to be given to the secondary craft training program of their choice.
NCCER is also encouraging contractors to approach their state government to have it proclaim October as Careers in Construction Month. Last year, contractors in 47 states filed proclamation requests.
Another NCCER effort is the I Built This! video contest. Entries must showcase projects that are relevant to the construction or maintenance industries. High school career and technical education students and postsecondary construction trainees or apprentices are eligible to enter the I Built This! contest.
Finally, the NCCER is offering its Careers in Construction Month Social Media Kit to all contractors. The kit includes key messages and sample posts and graphics. “Social media is one of the most direct ways to connect with today’s students and their parents,” the organization says. “Using platforms like Instagram or Twitter can help you promote careers in construction and share the tools and resources that Build Your Future has created.”
The National Association of Home Builders is offering contractors a Careers in Construction Toolkit. In the toolkit, they encourage constructors to:
Open Up Your Site: Ask a local construction site to host an in-person or virtual field trip. Students will be able to gather first-hand information about what it takes to have a successful career in construction.
Equipment Demonstrations: Take five minutes to showcase how to use one or more tools or pieces of equipment on the job site. You can do a live, remote demonstration and/or record your video and post it on social media with the tag #CareersInConstructionMonth.
Build a Resume : Help students prepare for a career in construction by coordinating a resume-building session. Provide interview and resume tips.
Visit a Classroom : Zoom and other video conferencing programs make remote presentations or slideshows a breeze.
Also, the NAHB has created a library of short videos promoting the benefits of various trades. Industry professionals are encouraged to use these videos to help spread the word about the rewarding careers available in homebuilding.
The Building Talent Foundation , a non-profit organization founded by the Leading Builders of America, is pulling out all the stops for Careers in Construction Month. During the month, BTF will be promoting construction careers to everyone from kindergartners to high school students to people actively looking for jobs or to change their careers.
For example, BTF Engagement Managers will be teaming up with contractors to go into grade school classrooms and read the picture book Someone Builds the Dream to kids. The message of the book: Buildings, bridges, and houses don’t exist without the workers who are often invisible in the final product.
Also, BTF Engagement Managers will host career events for students who are already in trade schools, as well as people who are working in different industries and who are considering changing careers to construction. A key aspect of these events will be to bring employers to these events, where they can meet directly with students and candidates.
BTF Engagement Managers regularly organize and participate in high school career events throughout the year, but they are doubling their efforts in October. During this month, they will be meeting with as many students as possible, promoting careers in construction and how they can get started.

Careers In Construction Month offers a unique opportunity for all of us to spread the word about working in the construction industry. The home building industry offers more than just another job—kids can find a rewarding career and earn a great salary. The top 25% in most construction trades professions earn at least $60,000 annually. Become an ambassador for the construction industry by becoming involved in your local schools. Get involved today!

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How to use Google to grow your construction business

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 10:03:59 GMT

Contractors, think about the last time you had to find a local business, a place for Thai food, perhaps. I’m willing to bet that your reflex was to search on Google—after all, Google knows everything, right?

Well, what do you think locals do when they need to find a contractor for a project? That’s right—they type in “contractors near me” into Google.

Try it yourself. You’ll see that you’re immediately presented with a hierarchy of listings. At the top are the contractors who have paid to have a Google Ad. Below those listings, you’ll find listings for three contractors who have been chosen from among all the possible local contractors, shown next to a map. This is known as the 3 Pack. At the bottom of the 3 Pack, you have the option to see more businesses. According to Forbes, 75 percent of internet users never scroll past the 3 Pack.

How do you get a piece of this action? That’s what this post is about—learning how to use local search on Google to grow your business, both ads, and the so-called Google Business Profile. We’ll look at Google ads first. Then we’ll consider the Google Business Profile. When you’re done with the piece, you should have a better idea how to use Google to grow your construction business.

Google ads for contractors

Google ads are the text-only ads that show up at the top and bottom of Google search results. You’ve seen them. Go to Google and type in “remodeler near me” or “general contractor near me” or whatever. The ads, each with a little identifier as an advertisement, will be the first thing you see.

Visit ads.google.com to set up your account. You’ll need to provide some basic business information and supply a credit card to pay for your ads.

With Google Ads you pay every time someone clicks on your ad. It’s known as cost-per-click or CPC. The costs can range from a penny per click to $10 per click—or more. Your final CPC will depend on things such as your maximum bid, your relevancy to the search terms used by the person on Google (known as “keywords”) and how many other contractors are bidding on those same keywords. Google Ads give contractors a lot of control over how much they spend. Your daily budget can be as low as $1 and up to $10,000—or more.

The keywords you use are crucial. Usually, these are phrases—something like “general contractor near me” or “Grand Rapids building painting contractor.” Think about what you would type into Google if you wanted to hire a professional in your area. That’s your keyword.

You can target your ads in many different ways—by age, gender, household income, and location. That way, your ad will only show up on the computer screens of people who match those terms.

Google will assign a “relevancy score” to your ad. It’s a measure of how much Google thinks your ad matches the keywords. Your quality score, along with the amount you bid, determines whether your ad will show up and much a click will cost you.

Google will prompt you to set up a “bid” for your ad. The bid is the most you’re willing to pay when someone clicks on your ad. The more you bid for each click, the higher your ad shows up in the search results.

Think of each keyword as an auction item, going up against a host of other local contractors bidding for the traffic. Google awards traffic to the highest bidder on each keyword.

Your ad will direct the searcher to a “landing page” on your website. Ideally, you should create a landing page for each of the services you want to advertise for. Your landing page should have a Call to Action (CTA). The trick is to get people to click on your CTA. That way, you turn site visitors into leads, leads into meetings, and meetings into sales.

Getting a free estimate is the most common CTA. Also, you can use “contact us,” “get started” or “call now.”

See: 7 ways to write super-effective Google ads (with real examples)

With Google Ads, you can use a search network campaign or a display network campaign. Use search campaigns. They show your ads on Google search results. Display campaigns show your ads alongside YouTube videos, product blogs, online shopping carts, and such.

What about Google Business Profile?

The Google Business Profile is a free platform for local businesses to get found on Google. Here is how to set up your Google Business Profile:

Go to Google Business Profile Manager Click on “Add your business to Google.” Google will prompt you to choose a category for your business and enter your physical location. And then enter your contact information.

Make sure your profile has this basic information:

The correct spelling of your business name
The correct physical address
The business hours
Your service areas
Your phone number
Your website

Google will then have you verify your business. You won’t be able to manage your Google Business Profile until it has been verified. So, make it happen. You can verify through phone/text, email, video recording, live video call or snail mail.

Once you’re verified you can get about optimizing your profile so that you’ll be listed in the 3-Pack! Here’s how:

Respond to questions submitted to your Google account—and make sure you ask every satisfied customer to leave a review of your work on Google. Respond to all reviews—good and bad. Homeowners are drawn toward contractors/remodelers who have four or five stars and they’re going to gloss over the contractors/remodelers who have no reviews.
Add photos. In the contracting/remodeling space, photos are crucial to converting visitors into customers. People want to see your work. Here are the bare minimum images you should have on your profile: your company logo, a photo of you and your team, a photo of one of your trucks, your best projects, and an “evergreen” offer—like a free consultation.
Give Google more to work with in assigning your profile to searches by keeping your information up to date.
You can select from many different attributes to give customers further information about your business. Depending on your type of business you may find attributes for payment options or, say, women-owned businesses.

Wrapping up

Your ideal prospects are using Google to find local businesses. It’s the way things work nowadays. So why not use Google to grow your construction business? If you’re uneasy about spending money on ads, at least complete your Google Business Profile. Then you can leverage the power of local search and drive more customers to your business.

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Should you use construction management software?

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 10:10:50 GMT

More and more contractors and subcontractors are finding that they can use construction management software to simplify the head-spinning complexity of a modern construction project with all its fits and starts and moving parts—in fact, to put the entire process literally into the palm of their hand.

Take Brady Yungmann of BY Homes in Indianapolis. Brady, who cut his teeth in construction helping his dad with construction projects and started professionally as a handyman, uses Houzz Pro construction management software in his general contracting business.

“When I started as a handyman, I created my own software using Excel to track my projects,” he said. “I tracked materials, client man hours, invoices, and estimates in a spreadsheet. That spreadsheet became a very large file and I knew I needed something that would be able to handle all of that information and help me to get it to the clients quickly and effectively.”

Should you use construction management software? That’s what this post is all about. When you finish this post, you should have a clearer idea what construction management software is and whether it can help your operation.

What is construction management software?

Running a construction company is a highly complex endeavor. Multiple stakeholders and participants. Management must navigate loosely defined client goals and vague project scopes while also accounting for supply chain delays, labor pool strain, and poor communications from vendors and subcontractors.

Construction management software aims to make sense of that complexity, streamlining processes that used to be done manually including communication, decision-making, and job scheduling, among others. What’s more, most apps are mobile-enabled, so the managers can take the software out on the job site.

“I no longer wanted to have different spreadsheets for different customers. I wanted to keep track of everything and manage all of my projects between different clients in one platform. Ideally, it would have all of my client lists, projects, documents, everything, in one place, which is what I found with Houzz Pro.”

The benefits of construction management software

Construction projects are highly structured endeavors. Whether the project consists of building a shopping mall or a single-dwelling residence, each project has many moving parts that must be precisely coordinated. Multiple people undertaking any number of tasks and sharing information. Raw materials delivery. Keeping all the documentation straight—invoices, change orders and such. Staying on schedule and on budget. Construction software will enhance the project, helping to plan, control and coordinate the project from beginning to end.

Some of the benefits of construction management software:

Real-time communication
Document management
Risk assessment
Cost control
Resource management
Accounting and financial management

We asked Brady to list off the features of his construction management software that have been particularly impactful. Here’s what he said:

Building estimates

Brady’s software offers pre-loaded prices in its estimate builder, which saves him a ton of time. “Previously, I had to manually find and upload that information, but with Houzz Pro, it’s already there. I appreciate that I can then verify pricing to make sure it’s accurate to the market and tailor any information necessary from the initial prices.”

Collaboration

Brady said it’s good to have one place to go where everything is listed. That reduces questions on the client’s end because they can see everything together. “My system helps me to look more professional to my clients by giving them a place to go for every invoice, change order, and other information.”

Invoicing

With his software, Brady can quickly review and find out what’s been paid, what hasn’t and easily follow up with clients across each project. “It shows you the history and how long it’s been since you followed up with someone,” he said.

Mobile-friendly

Brady uses his Houzz Pro software on his mobile device every day. He’s on the road constantly and he doesn’t have to pull out his laptop and set up a hotspot to access information. He can just check in on things on the job site from my phone.

“Once, we were repairing four different rental properties in the same neighborhood. When we got into the repairs, we found further damage and had to halt work. I called the owner to let him know about the additional repairs and had to quickly create an estimate to get his verbal approval before moving forward. Without the mobile app, it would have delayed the project, increased costs and we would have had to schedule a time to come back another day. But since I was able to send that invoice immediately, we addressed the repairs the same day. This happens often, and it’s helpful to be able to be able to keep the project moving while I’m on-site.”

How much does construction management software cost?

There are two basic types of construction management software:

In-house or on-premise software runs on your company server and is installed on each of your computers. You’ll pay a large fee upfront, but there will be fewer ongoing costs. You will need an experienced IT person to manage it.

Web-based or cloud-based software is hosted outside of the company on the provider’s server and is accessed through a web browser. You’ll pay a small setup fee and then monthly payments based on the number of users or licenses in your office.

In the construction industry, in-house software is more prevalent, mostly because it’s an older and better-understood system. Some construction companies just aren’t comfortable with project data residing on outside servers. However, web-based software is growing in popularity, particularly among smaller construction firms.

In-house construction management software is priced anywhere from about $1,000 to more than $100,000. (The software Brady mentioned, Houzz Pro, is $199/month.) Off-the-shelf software that focuses primarily on a single task such as estimating falls on the low end of that price range, while complete software solutions for large construction firms fall on the high end.

Construction firms should expect to spend anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000 on software that provides a variety of project management, financial, and human resources functions.

Did you like this post? Try How contractors can use technology to grow their business

How contractors can network at professional organizations

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 10:15:23 GMT

This post is about how contractors can network at professional organizations. Contractors, did you know that networking could put your company on the path to its next big project? Networking is all about making new connections and nurturing lifelong mutually beneficial relationships. The best way to network is through your local professional organizations, the big two being Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) and Associated General Contractors of America (AGC).

“My ABC membership is all about growing my business and making my business better—and making myself better, too, frankly. The key to that is networking,” said Josh Martin, president of Mid-Michigan Management, a firm focused on asbestos removal and selective demolition out of Okemos, Mich.

“It’s a lost art in these days of social media and email. When I network, it’s all about adding value to the person I’m talking to—maybe giving them a referral or sharing something that’s worked for our company.”

So how to does one . . . “network”? Here are some tips:

You can’t network if you don’t show up

Lots of contractors have purchased memberships to professional organizations. But not all contractors make a point of attending the organizations’ meetings and events—and having their leaders attend. “Mike Loomis, the President and CEO of MDL Companies, has placed a strong emphasis on community engagement,” said Adam Jankowiak, Director of Construction for MDL Construction, based in Bay City, Mich. He’s part of the Greater Michigan ABC’s Emerging Professionals group, as well as their Ambassador Club. “That means participating in ABC functions, joining local boards, volunteering, etc. He wants us actively involved in our communities. So we make a point of showing up and forming connections. Networking is the foundation for growth and success in this industry.”

Take risks when networking

Anybody can get a little scared when it comes to walking right up to someone you don’t know and introducing yourself. People will forget to get back in touch with you after they say they will at a meeting, but don’t take that personally. They’re just busy. They forgot. Not everyone you meet is going to reciprocate.

Find a “wingman” if you’re shy about networking at first

Find a friend or colleague who can accompany you at events, making you more comfortable when approaching people you don’t know. In fact, with the right wingman, you can actually have a good time networking.

Approach another contractor to be your wingman, preferably one who also isn’t too keen on networking. If you’re not sure whom to approach, go to the next event as a scouting opportunity: Who looks like they’re uncomfortable? Take them to lunch and talk about the idea of serving as wingmen for one another. Come to an understanding about how you’ll keep the conversation going with one another and with others.

See: 10 ways a wingman can up your networking game.

Don’t sell when networking

Have an elevator speech and use it when you’re introducing yourself, but don’t focus on talking about yourself. Be curious. Focus first on getting to know the other person—what makes them tick. The goal is not to get as many business cards as you can, but to make quality connections. Ask questions—and listen! Prepare ahead of time before networking events and think of questions you can ask others. Being curious about other individuals and what they do is a great way to connect with them, form a bond, and make them feel like they are seen.

Seek first to help when networking, not be helped

People can sense when someone is only out to help himself. Don’t be that person. Don’t make the mistake of discounting people due to their titles. Find out what you can do to assist each person you meet. It can even be as simple as putting them in touch with another contact. This will show them that your interest in them is genuine and can lead to long-term relationships.

Be patient when networking

Greg Berreles, Director of Membership and Business Development for ABC’s Greater Michigan Chapter, has three words of advice: take your time. “It’s not about just handing out as many business cards as you can. It’s a slow process. You go to an event and you meet a couple of people and really get to know them, build a relationship, build trust.”

Always follow up when networking

Make a point of looping back with any person whose business card you received at a chapter event. Email something of value right away after meeting someone, such as a book recommendation, an article, or an email introduction to someone. Agree to connect on Linkedin. Follow-up can establish a relationship that can continue at subsequent events or separately from the organization.

Said Josh, “I’ve been working with our chapter Director of Membership and Business development to build a community of contractors—that is, a group that naturally interacts outside of ABC events, maybe some drinks after work, things like that.”

Make the most of conferences and conventions

Take a strategic approach to these large gatherings. Review the list of attendees before you get here and plan the people you want to meet. You could even email them in advance and make appointments to meet them at breaks.

Also, volunteer to work the registration desk when the conference or convention opens. This gives you a good chance of meeting every attendee, especially the ones you’ve set aside strategically.

How contractors can network at professional organizations

Networking can be a powerful way to grow your business. Find the local chapter of your professional organization and make a point of attending the next meeting—then begin networking!

Said Josh, “I only have my own experience growing up in a family business where it took me a long time to realize I needed to get out of the office in order to find the success I was looking for,” Once I started getting out and networking in places like the ABC, acquiring my own connections, and building my personal network, it gave me the confidence I needed to grow my book of business and to eventually go out on my own.”

Did you like this post? Check out How to retain your skilled tradespeople through engagement

Need skilled tradespeople to complete your project? Get in touch with Steve Dubicki at Great Lakes Skilled

Four rules for creating great skilled trade job postings

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 10:34:07 GMT

There are only so many skilled tradespeople out there—not enough, to be frank. If you’re going to stand out from all the potential employers and land the cream of the crop candidates, it’s imperative that your job postings stand out from the sea of other contractors’ job postings. You need to make it enticing—it is an advertisement, after all—readable, mobile-friendly, and welcoming to diverse candidates.

That’s what this post is about. We’ll look at some big-picture issues when it comes to job postings. When you’ve finished the post, you should have several good ideas how you can get more bang for your job postings buck.

Ready? Let’s go.

Make your job postings enticing

As I said earlier, your job ad is just an advertisement. It should entice job seekers to itself.

Your posting has to stand out from all the other postings. To do that, you have to think like a market, Sell your Employee Value Proposition—what someone gets out of working for your company. Tangibles and intangibles. Gartner says the five fundamental elements that make up an EVP are compensation, work-life balance, stability, location, and respect. Does your construction company hit all these cylinders?

Do skilled tradespeople feel good to work at your construction company? How so?

Are there opportunities for “getting ahead” and developing one’s skills at your construction company? That’s a big selling point for job seekers nowadays.

Make your job postings mobile friendly

People look for work on their mobile devices, often during a break at their job. So it behooves you to make your job ad “mobile friendly.” That is, it needs to be easily digestible on a small screen. Since the launch of the iPhone in 2007, smartphone ownership has exploded to 77% of U.S. adults, according to a 2018 survey by the Pew Research Center . If your job posts aren’t mobile-friendly, you could be missing out on reaching a large percentage of the talent pool.

According to Glassdoor, 89% of applicants look for employment on their phones.

S0 . . . be mobile friendly.

That means that the text is easily readable, links and navigation are easily clickable, and it’s easy to consume the content in general. People tend to “scan” on their smartphones. So you want to use subheads frequently and organize information in bullets. Use short paragraphs, shorter sentences, and a good amount of white space. If you use too many words, you’re liable to infect job seekers with TLDR: Too Long, Didn’t Read.

It’s easy to see if your job postings are mobile-friendly. Look at them on a mobile device!

Make your job postings readable

Write for a junior high schooler. Really? Yes. Did you know the average adult reads at a 9th-grade level or that most popular fiction is written to a 7th-grade level?

It’s not that your readers at work aren’t intelligent. They’re just busy. If a piece of writing presents any difficulty, they’ll just start skimming—or just stop reading.

Rudolf Flesch designed a readability formula in the ’40s. It measures the average sentence length in words and the average word length in syllables. The higher the score, the easier something is to read. You want a score of 56 or higher. The Gettysburg Address is a 65. The average insurance policy is a 20.

To access readability statistics in Word, you’ll first need to turn the feature on. In Word, click the File tab and then click Options. In the Options window, select the Proofing tab. Enable both the “Check grammar with spelling” and “Show readability statistics” checkboxes. Click OK when you’re finished. Then bring up the document you want to rank and click spell and grammar check. The readability stats will come up at the close of the spelling/grammar check.

How do you write readable job postings? Write simply.

In terms of words, there is usually a simpler alternative. Big as opposed to enormous , for example. Or use instead of utilize .

In terms of sentences, a few long sentences are not bad now and then to add variety to your writing. But aim for shorter rather than longer in the main. And don’t be shy about using one- or two-word sentences. (They’re actually sentence fragments.) They add punch to your writing. Zing.

Lastly, three-to-four sentences per paragraph is a good amount. (Apart from readability, using shorter paragraphs is a good idea because it creates more white space on the page. A huge block of grey text is off-putting to readers, especially on a smartphone. They’re liable to skip over your prose.)

Make your job postings female-friendly

You might be surprised to find your job postings are turning away ideal candidates because don’t “speak” to them or, worse, offend them. Helpful hints:

A big part of the problem is that certain words and phrases could put off a large portion of the candidate pool. If candidates assume the role is more suited for the opposite gender, for example, you might be missing out on qualified candidates. There are female skilled tradespeople out there! The best way to avoid this common mistake is to avoid words that are typically understood to be coded for a male or female audience. For example, words such as “aggressive” and “ambitions” can prevent women from identifying with the job posting. There are several gender decoder tools you can use to help you reword your job posting so you aren’t unintentionally discouraging women from applying.
Studies reveal that while men will usually apply for a job if they feel they meet 60 percent of the qualifications, women will hesitate unless they meet 100 percent of the qualifications. Therefore, only list the “must haves” when it comes to qualifications. You’ll see more women apply.
If your construction company is making major strides toward becoming a more inclusive place to work, consider including this in your job descriptions. For example, At AAA Construction, diversity is a vital part of our history, culture, and identity. We know through experience that different ideas, perspectives, and backgrounds create a stronger and more creative work environment that delivers better results. We strive to create a workplace that reflects the communities we serve and where everyone feels empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work. “
Stress that your construction company has tailored itself to be inclusive of women. For example, you allow flexible schedules. The typical hours on a construction site—start early, stay late—can be a deal breaker for women with school-age children. Also, note your gender-specific porta-potties and PPE that can fit on women’s frames.

Wrapping up

Considering how hard it is to find skilled tradespeople, you need to make your company stand out to job seekers. A big way you can do that is through a terrific job posting. A good posting not only outlines the duties and responsibilities of the job but also describes how the role fits within the organization, what some of the goals for the position are, where the organization is headed in the near future and any history that is relevant to the position or mission.

Did you like this post? Try Women make awesome skilled tradespeople and/or How to get referrals for your construction business.

How to retain your skilled tradespeople through engagement

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 10:44:20 GMT

A new study says that if contractors want to retain their skilled tradespeople, it all boils down to one word:

Engagement.

Engagement is the degree to which people feel enthusiastic about their work. Many studies show that companies with higher engagement show greater sales, higher profits and higher customer satisfaction.

“Engagement is the propensity of people to feel good about their jobs and be committed to their jobs. It’s a term that’s not used lightly in academia,” said Branka Minic, CEO of the Building Talent Foundation (BTF), a non-profit committed to creating the next generation of skilled tradespeople that spearheaded the study.

“It’s a process. You don’t just wake up one morning and decide to leave your job. First, you disengage. Then you see yourself in another company in a year’s time. Then you start actively pursuing it. But everything starts with people becoming disengaged.”

A disengaged employee can easily become a former employee, and then the contractor has to deal with the hassle of refilling that position. It can cost as much as $15,000 to separate from a tradesperson and find his/her replacement.

What are the keys to engagement?

The keys to engagement? Expanded opportunities for career development and improved supervision.

“Giving employees raises does lead to an increase in engagement, but if career advancement, skill development, and supervisor leadership are not at acceptable levels, the increase is temporary,” Branka said. “Employees who experience low engagement see themselves in different jobs in a year and are thinking of another job now.”

The study was conducted by the Oxford Centre for Employee Engagement in collaboration with the BTF. The study was based on a survey of 1,462 of people employed in residential and commercial construction. The study was funded by the Leading Builders of America.

The importance of career advancement and skill development

Here are some of the steps contractors can take:

Communicate opportunities for advancement and help employees take advantage of those opportunities.
Foster a positive, team-centric atmosphere and culture in which team members are encouraged to learn from each other.
Set aside time and resources for employees to pursue professional and skill development.

The importance of supervisors’ leadership skills

The person overseeing the skilled tradesperson on the job site, usually a foreperson or lead tradesperson, often isn’t adequately trained, especially at smaller contracting companies. Consequently, most leaders have no idea how to be a leader and may disengage their people on a daily basis without realizing it.

“We need to prevent disengagement, bring them back,” Branka said. “Otherwise, they get on that path and it’s a battle lost. Increasing their pay doesn’t solve the problem. That just gives them a little boost for a bit but if the reasons they became disengaged aren’t addressed, they’ll go back to the path of leaving the company.”

Here are the supervisor activities that can foster employee engagement:

Having frank conversations about performance early on
Achieving tasks on time and on budget through effective resource allocation
Running effective meetings
Managing time
Setting goals and managing performance
Employee motivation

“Engaged employees are more productive, dedicated, and happier,” Branka. “Put simply, companies with engaged workforces are more successful.”

The big/small divide

Branka acknowledged it may be harder for smaller contractors to make headway on career advancement/skill development and improving supervisory skills. Large companies often have a dedicated human resource department as well as the resources and expertise to provide opportunities for training and advancement.

Fortunately, there are a number of no-cost and low-cost training modules, tools, and resources that are available.

“If you make those free and low-cost resources known to employees and acknowledge when an employee goes to the next level of proficiency, a smaller contractor can make a big difference in increasing its employee engagement. It’s something. That’s better than losing that employee.”

She said that small companies do have some advantages they can leverage. For example, they can be more agile and flexible than larger companies. Also, a smaller contractors’ ownership is often closer to the tradespeople.

Focusing on employee engagement will benefit employers in the short term and will help the industry as a whole in the long term. As more people are happy and growing in their careers, the building industry will gradually develop a reputation for offering rewarding, viable careers, which will, in turn, helps the recruitment of new talent into the sector.

“The time to invest in engagement is now,” Branka said. “Our industry is already investing heavily in recruiting and training new talent and those efforts will be twice as effective once the sector is better and engaging and retaining its workers.”

Did you like this post? Check out 13 ideas for retaining skilled tradespeople

5 myths about the skilled trades

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 10:51:16 GMT

5 mythThe skilled trades have an image problem. They’re seen as noisy, dirty and loud—not a valid career choice. A fallback position if you can’t get into college. Since the 70s, high school guidance counselors have tried to disabuse any student who expressed interest in being a carpenter or an electrician. Go to college, they’re told. That’s the ticket.

College is fine—but it’s not for everyone. A career in skilled trades can be a fantastic choice. In this post, we’ll look at five common myths about the skilled trades that may be keeping you from investigating a career in skilled trades. See if any of them resonate with you. Maybe you need to recalibrate the way you think about skilled trades. It could open up a world of opportunities for you.

Myth 1: The skilled trades don’t pay well.

“It’s absolutely not true that the trades don’t pay well,” says Becky Manson, journeyman electrician in Midland, Mich. She will be taking a vacation to a Jamaican resort with her spouse and kids in December “when it’s as cold as hell here.”

“You may not start out at what you think is very great pay. I started out at $10 an hour 11 years ago. You have to earn that $40 or $50 an hour. If you work hard and you’re willing to learn, you can get to that $40 or $50 an hour.”

Meanwhile, consider this: The average trade school education costs just $33,000 compared to $127,000 to earn a degree from a four-year college. So no student debt! That means you get to keep everything you earn.

In 10 years, Becky would like to be a general foreman. She’s the onsite foreman now. “I still put my tools on,” she said. She likes the idea of “running the show” from “behind the scenes,” scheduling progress meeting, working on RFIs, etc.

Myth 2: The skilled trades are only for men.

It’s true that most skilled tradespeople are men. But it doesn’t have to be that way. There’s no reason women can’t make up least a half of skilled trades jobs—or more! There is nothing about the skilled trades that makes them a male job.

Sexist attitudes that kept women away from construction are gradually fading away. The number of women working in the trades is expected to double over the next 10 years.

“Women bring a lot to the table,” Becky said. “We may not be as physically strong as men, but we can still do the job and do it right. On top of that, we bring a different perspective—a different way of viewing things. That gives you better results.”

See: Women make awesome skilled tradespeople.

Myth 3: The skilled trades are not a fulfilling career

That’s what high school guidance counselors have been telling students since the 70s. However, ask any skilled tradesperson and he/she will tell you about the feeling of pride that swells in them when they drive by a structure that they helped create.

The truth is that skilled trades are essential for modern society. Without construction workers, there would be no infrastructure: roads, highways, and airports. When your air conditioning goes out in a summer swelter, the HAVC technician is suddenly the most important person in the world! And indoor plumbing, hot-and-cold running water? Not without plumbers!

The skilled trades are what make modern society possible. You could be a part of that with a career in the skilled trades!

Says Becky, “Being an electrician, you have to get power to a home or to a plant—you’re bringing the ‘life’ to that structure, running the wires through the holes in the studs.”

Every day’s a new challenge and a new accomplishment.

“For example, the other day, I was working with our apprentice on the fire booth at the chemical plant, showing him how to do stuff. We made the conduit system plumb and level, but all the offsets were mismatched with one another. The mechanical prints weren’t synced with our prints. So we took the time and had to backtrack. When we were done the project was able to move on—and I was able to pass along some important lessons to my apprentice, so it felt great!”

Myth 4: It’s difficult to find a skilled trades job

Some people assume that the skilled trades are only seasonal jobs or temporary. Yes, it’s true there are skilled trades jobs like this, but there are many projects that last years, and many contractors are hiring full-time skilled tradespeople.

There is a pronounced shortage of skilled tradespeople in America. Many contractors are having to delay projects because they can’t find the carpenters, electricians, masons, and plumbers to work for them. And it’s only going to get worse, as there is a large number of older skilled trades people getting ready to retire.

The truth is that if you want to get started in the skilled trades you can start today! A laborer gig is a great way to get a foot in the door. From there, you go through an apprenticeship and then you’re a journeyman. From there, you could become a master and earn all sorts of extra certifications. See: How a general labor job can get you into the construction industry.

“We went through a hiring frenzy recently,” Becky says. “Finding enough quality people was a real challenge.”

Myth 5: Skilled trades jobs aren’t intellectually stimulating

The myth is that skills-based jobs are all brawn and no brain. The cynic says, “How much brainpower does it take to swing a hammer?”—but the truth is that the skilled trades are all about problem-solving.

The skilled tradesperson will start off testing the standard issues and fixes, and if that doesn’t work he/she will use increasingly complex troubleshooting procedures to determine the root cause of a problem. Every day it’s some new hurdle! All of the trades require an understanding of many advanced mathematical and scientific concepts. You wouldn’t want a carpenter who failed geometry to build your family’s house. You wouldn’t want a plumber who doesn’t understand physics to fix your broken toilet.

The myth is that the skilled trades are for people who couldn’t “cut it” in college.

“We had an incident with some control wiring, where the prints that were sent to us—it just wouldn’t do what they were trying to do. I sat down my foremen and my apprentices and we had to think, ‘Okay, this is what they want to do with this piece of equipment. How do we make it work? And we did!”

Becky says she’s continually problem solving when she’s on the job. “There are many times when I get home and one of the kids will ask me a question and I’ll say, ‘My brain hurts. Can we talk about this later?’”

Wrapping up

So are you fully debunked? There is no limit to what a skilled tradesperson can accomplish. Great Lakes Skilled Trades offers plenty of job opportunities within the trades. We always have open positions. No experience? Start out as a temporary laborer and work your way up. Why not call us today?

Keeping skilled tradespeople safe in the summer heat

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 10:54:58 GMT

It’s summer in the Great Lakes region, and that means sunshine. Lots of it.

Construction is always a dangerous job, but in the summer months the heat can make all activities even more dangerous. It’s crucial that skilled tradespeople working in non-climate-controlled environments stay cool to stay safe.

During the summer, contractors need to take steps to make sure their teams avoid heat-related illnesses.

Heat Stroke is the most serious heat-related health problem. Heat stroke occurs when the body’s temperature-regulating system fails and body temperature rises to critical levels (greater than 104°F). This is a medical emergency that may result in death!

The signs of heat stroke are confusion, loss of consciousness, and seizures. Workers experiencing heat stroke may stop sweating.

Heat Exhaustion is the next most serious heat-related health problem. The signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion are headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, irritability, confusion, thirst, heavy sweating, and a body temperature greater than 100.4°F.

Workers with heat exhaustion should be removed from the hot area and given liquids to drink. Cool the worker with cold compresses to the head, neck, and face, or have the worker wash his or her head, face, and neck with cold water. Encourage frequent sips of cool water.

Workers with signs or symptoms of heat exhaustion should be taken to a clinic or emergency room for medical evaluation and treatment. Make sure that someone stays with the worker until help arrives. If symptoms worsen, call 911 and get help immediately.

Heat Cramps are muscle pains usually caused by the loss of body salts and fluid during sweating. Workers with heat cramps should replace fluid loss by drinking water and/or carbohydrate-electrolyte replacement liquids (e.g., sports drinks) every 15 to 20 minutes.

Heat Rash is the most common problem in hot work environments. Heat rash is caused by sweating and looks like a red cluster of pimples or small blisters. Heat rash may appear on the neck, upper chest, groin, under the breasts, and elbow creases. The best treatment for heat rash is to provide a cooler, less humid work environment. The rash area should be kept dry. Powder may be applied to increase comfort.

Ointments and creams should not be used on a heat rash. Anything that makes the skin warm or moist may make the rash worse.

Here are some simple tips to avoid heat-related illnesses:

Stay hydrated —OSHA recommends drinking cool water even if you’re not thirsty—at least 1 cup every 20 minutes. Sweating removes needed salt and minerals from the body. Drink more water, juice, and sports drinks. Avoid drinks with caffeine (tea, coffee, and cola) and alcohol. And remember, hydration starts the night before.

Take rest breaks in the shade —Pace yourself. If you’re a new or returning worker who’s not yet acclimated to working in the heat, take more frequent breaks until you build up your tolerance.

Wear appropriate clothing— Choose lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.

Wear sunscreen— Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool down and can make you dehydrated. Apply sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes prior to going out. Continue to reapply it according to the package directions.

Look out for each other— Workers may need to ask each other questions about how they are feeling during the workday to assess for signs of heat-related illness among their co-workers. OSHA says to be on the lookout for headaches, nausea, weakness/dizziness, heavy sweating or hot dry skin, elevated body temperature, thirst or reduced urine output. In the event of any of these warning signs, move to a shady/cool spot, take off any unnecessary clothing, drink water, and otherwise cool down with ice and a fan, if possible.

Although illness from exposure to heat is preventable, every year, thousands become sick from occupational heat exposure, and some cases are fatal. Make sure you’re staying safe in the summer heat.

How is the “uncertain economy” affecting contractors’ busy season?

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 11:21:25 GMT

In our “uncertain economy,” how busy will the busy season be for contractors in the Great Lakes region?

Plenty.

Brian Turmail, Vice President of Public Affairs & Strategic Initiatives with AGC of America, said most contractors he knows aren’t worrying about a possible recession. Instead, they’re “pocketing the money while they have it.”

“We’re seeing good public sector demand thanks to the bipartisan infrastructure bill. We’re seeing private sector activity. We’re seeing a ton of multifamily, a decent amount of condo conversions. Some retail construction. Hospitality is coming back now that people traveling in larger numbers now. A huge number of data centers,” Brian said.

So, it’s a case of making hay while the sun shines.

Passing on change orders will be an issue

“Workers are eager for as many hours as possible. It’s gotten more expensive to fill up their Silverado,” Brian said.

“Most contractors realize they’re in a higher-risk business. Any moment, the market could change. The indicators look positive right now, for the most part, but we don’t know what the future will hold. If we could know that, there would be far fewer news channels devoted to predicting the economy.”

This summer, contractors will be working off their backlogs, so the question is not “will there be work.” No uncertainty there. The challenge will be passing on change orders to reflect changes in cost.

The key will be having a “heart to heart” conversation with each customer at the planning meeting, says Jimmy Greene, President of Associated Builders and Contractors chapter in Michigan.

“Ask, ‘What will happen if economic conditions change?’” Jimmy said. “A change order is a discussion. Before you put a shovel into the dirt, you have a discussion of why the caveats are in place. Contractors’ margins are a lot smaller than people think. They’ve got a lot of crew and a lot of subs and a lot of overhead. You can’t eat loss. There’s no sustainability in that.”

Less downtime between jobs

The key to succeeding in this year’s busy season—when many economists are predicting a recession, and some are predicting a recession akin to the Great Recession of 2008—will be moving fast between jobs.

“Working in covid gave contractors a new perspective on timelines,” Jimmy said. “Nothing is a given. Nothing is certain. The fact that you need to rush to the next job is on the front of everybody’s mind. We’re still in covid. There are still coronavirus numbers out there. We just learned how to work in an uncertain environment. We’re marching to a new drumbeat—and it’s a fast drumbeat!”

That is, the work on the job site occurs at the same deliberate pace. Safety first. But there’s less and less downtime between jobs.

That said, contractors’ backlogs could dry up quickly if a recession does hit. See: How to help your construction business weather a recession.

Using temporary labor in uncertain times

Companies that need to fill roles may not want to incur the costs of onboarding a permanent employee while the economy is unstable. Temporary staffing offers a great way to respond to fluctuations in the economy.

Hire quickly and easily through a temporary agency and if the economy starts to sour, you’ll be able to respond quickly. No hassles of permanent staffing. The costs of hiring, training, and even firing can drain businesses of money they can’t afford to lose.

A great choice in the Great Lakes region is Great Lakes Skilled Trades.

“You’ll gain access to a pool of experienced skilled tradespeople—and plenty of entry-level laborers—so you can quickly and easily fill spots that pop up,” said Steve Dubicki, Director of Sales for Great Lakes Skilled Trades.

A perfect example was the contractor who came to Great Lakes Skilled Trades to find night shift carpenters for grocery store remodels.

“He’d had absolutely no luck finding anybody,” Steve said. “Construction is pretty much a 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. business, so it was really hard to find willing qualified carpenters. We have five full-time recruiters at Great Lakes Skilled Trades and we put them on this task. They started attacking the phones. Within a week, we had 15 people for him.”

Did you like this post? Check out How to get referrals for your construction business

Do you need skilled trades workers? Contact us. info@greatlakesskilledtrades.com

How to help your construction business weather a recession

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 11:25:41 GMT

Not to be a downer—after all, many contractors are enjoying a surplus of work and near-record backlogs—but are we headed for a recession?

Depends which economist you ask. Some poo-poo the whole idea. Some warn a second Great Recession is in the offing!

Most economists agree that if Gross Domestic Product drops for two consecutive quarters then, by definition, we are in a recession.

What’s got many contractors nervous is that the economy shrank by an annualized rate of 1.4 percent in Q1 of 2022. One more quarter and we’re officially in a recession!

Construction is usually one of the hardest-hit industries during a recession. Many construction companies saw their project backlogs slowly fizzle away as customers were unable to find financing. While other industries bounced back quickly after the Great Recession, recovery was slow for many contractors.

So what can you do now to weather a recession? That’s what this post is about. We will consider several best practices to build a recession-proof business strategy.

Ready? Let’s go.

Protect your cash flow. Do you have an accounting professional you can turn to for timely information about the financial state of your business? When contractors get in trouble, it’s often because they run out of cash. Cash is king, it is said. The lifeblood of your business—especially in construction, where contractors rely on lines of credit to purchase supplies or make payroll. If a recession does hit, you want to have enough spare cash around to cover your operating expenses and overhead.

Keep your best skilled tradespeople. As we all know, there is a huge shortage of skilled tradespeople. A precious resource! The US Chamber of Commerce estimates that more than 90 percent of contractors have struggled to find workers. You’re probably one of them!

It’s been this way since the Great Recession of 2008, when a huge group of skilled tradespeople left the industry, never to return. Now many of the remaining skilled tradespersons are nearing retirement—and young people aren’t coming into the industry to take their place!

During a recession, when work is scarce, you need to be able to stand out from the competition—so keep your best skilled tradespeople happy. That means you’ve got to offer competitive wages and benefits. Paying more during a recession can sound counterintuitive, but you’ve got to keep your best people engaged if you’re going to make it out the other end of the recession.

And it’s more than just pay and benefits. A recent study by the Building Talent Foundation found that the key for construction companies in retaining their workers is that you offer opportunities for career advancement, training, and learning new skills. Your workers need to see a clear future for themselves.

Intimately understand your costs. The better you understand the exact prices for your labor and materials, the more effectively you can price your projects. Profits can become razor thin during a recession, so just a little bit can mean the difference between survival and shutting down.

Are you spending money on things that aren’t clearly tied to your business’s growth? Do you have equipment sitting idle?

Likewise, you may have to let go of employees who aren’t pulling their weight. The key to having these difficult discussions is treating people with respect—in person. Remain factual, honest and open, and actively listening to their responses.

A recession could be a perfect opportunity to try a temporary labor agency. Once you “right size” your team, you can supplement it through the use of temporary labor. Production increase? No problem, just bring in some temporary employees. When the crunch is over, you just tell the agency you’re done with the temporary employees. No fuss, no muss. See: Growing your construction business through contingent labor.

Stay close to your customers. All successful businesses are built on relationships. Check in regularly on how they’re faring during the recession. Ask how they are doing and how you can best serve them at this time. Maybe your sales force could call on every customer. This is a great way to fend off hungry competitors.

Try to lock up long-term contracts with your most important customers at more favorable terms. Offer prepayment incentives, for example.

If you’ve built strong relationships, customer loyalty will serve you well during a recession. If you haven’t, now’s a perfect time to start!

Remain vigilant on collections. It’s difficult to pay for your materials and labor when you’re not getting paid in a timely manner. In good times, a business can grow lax on collecting on receivables. This can bite you in the rear end during a recession. It is one thing to get the work, and another to get paid in full and on time for the work. All too often, you will have a customer that received your services, never complained about the quality, but became silent when it was time to pay the invoice. Good collections processes help minimize the impact of bad payers.

Play to your strengths . What sets you apart from your competitors? That’s what you want to focus on during a recession. Maybe it’s the quality of your craftsmanship. Maybe it’s your ability to deliver projects on time and on budget.

Are there certain projects that are more profitable for your firm? Go after these types of projects during a recession. Review job costs for completed construction projects. You may discover your company makes its highest margins projects of a certain size, scope or dollar amount. If you’re great at small to medium-sized projects, taking on a project that is too large could result in labor and equipment shortages.

Review your contracts and service agreements. A good construction contract is about sharing risk equitably. Make sure your contracts include sections on handling fluctuations in pricing and shipping delays. If you haven’t already, add a force majeure clause. It can protect you from liability for delays that aren’t your fault. An escalation clause can limit your responsibility for raw material cost increases.

Meanwhile, protect your lien rights. Project funding can dry up overnight in a recession. Make sure you send a preliminary notice, even if it’s not required by your state’s laws and you don’t foresee payment problems.

Wrapping up

A recession might be right around the corner. Now’s the time to reevaluate to get lean and focus on your strengths, those things that made you successful in the first place. Contractors who go into a downturn strong have a better chance of coming out alive at the tail end. Maybe now’s the time to be proactive in streamlining your business.

Did you like this post. Try How to get referrals for your construction business.

Great Lakes Skilled Trades launches app for skilled tradespeople

Mon, 16 May 2022 11:28:06 GMT

Great Lakes Skilled Trades has launched the Great Lakes Skilled Trade App for smartphones that skilled tradespeople can use to find great jobs. No more scouring job boards. All skilled tradespeople need is a smartphone and an internet connection and they will have access to all the jobs Great Lakes Skilled Trades has to offer.

Before the app, tradespeople had to look at the Great Lakes Skilled Trades job board and apply or apply through another site such as Indeed. But those notices were just for positions and areas we are hiring for. No specifics.

The app will list actual jobs with specific job details and locations. Also, If the tradesperson has already worked for us in the past or applied in the past they can simply click on a button to indicate they are interested in a particular job and it will send an alert in our system and a recruiter will pick up the phone and call them.

“They don’t need to call us or apply again,” says Dustin Ide, Vice President and General Manager with Great Lakes Skilled Trades. “They simply show interest on the app and we reach out to them!”

Tradespeople can use the mobile app to access their unique profile, find local jobs, get daily job notifications, sign up for jobs with a single tap, keep track of their schedule, enter work hours, and submit their time reports.

It’s the best way to stay connected with Great Lakes Skilled Trades and the easiest way to find your next gig.

Once a tradesperson clicks on a job in the app, they will be immediately contacted by a Great Lakes Skilled Trades representative. If the representative determines he or she is the right person for the job, they will give the tradesperson access to detailed information about the job such as address, start time, site contact, PPE, and required tools.

Skilled tradespeople can download the app from the app store.

Down the road, the company will unveil a customer version of the app that will allow customers to choose specific tradespeople electronically as well as approve timecards.

“This is the start of a new era at Great Lakes Skilled Trades,” Dustin added. “Things will never be the same again. This app is going to transform things for us, for workers, and for customers. This app is a game-changer.”

Mobile technology is a perfect fit for people in the construction industry. A common assumption is that the people searching for jobs on their phones tend to be in high-income occupations such as software engineer. Actually, the people who rely most on mobile devices are from industries that require employees to be away from their desktop computer. The jobs tend to be blue-collar jobs.

Skilled trades are a perfect fit.

“Mobile job seekers insist on a simple and elegant experience,” says Dustin Ide. “Our app has a clean, intuitive design that skilled tradespeople are going to find user-friendly. What’s more, the app makes it simple to match the specific tradesperson with roles that fit with his/her talent and experience.”

Great Lakes Skilled Trades opened its first office, in Grand Rapids, Mich., in 2020 and then its first satellite office in Milwaukee in 2021. The Great Lakes Skilled Trades proposition is being warmly received in both markets and the company has plans to add more offices soon around the Great Lakes region.

The Great Lakes Skilled Trades team has decades of experience in the skilled trades, making us uniquely suited to connect contractors with tradesmen. Just as our craftsmen take pride in a job well done, we take pride in how we apply our skills to solve our client’s problems. With a specialization in skilled trades and a focus on quality and safety, we seek to make community-building connections between contractors and skilled tradesmen.

Did you like this post? Try How To Stand Out On a Construction Site

How to get referrals for your construction business

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 11:33:47 GMT

Want to extract more value from your customer base by getting more referrals?

A referred lead is a warm lead because the lead knows and trusts the person who is referring your company. Nielsen Research has found that consumers are four times more likely to buy when referred by a friend to a particular business.

Zappos CEO Rony Hsieh said, “We take most of the money that we could have spent on paid advertising and instead put it back into the customer experience. Then we let our customers be our marketing. Historically, our one number-one growth driver has been from repeat customers and word of mouth.”

The best way to get referrals is to do a great job and provide excellent customer service. Said differently, a referral must be earned. Give the customer an amazing experience from the first phone call to the last touch. Do that enough and people will start recommending you to their friends and family who are looking for a contractor.

Here are some ways to drive referrals:

First off, get over the fear of asking for a referral

You’d be surprised how many contractors are sheepish about asking customers for referrals. It’s the fear of rejection we’ve had since junior high school! “I don’t want to seem pushy” or “I don’t want to hurt the relationship” or “I don’t want to look needy” or “I don’t want to put them on the spot” and, of course, “What if they say no?”

But if your business is going to thrive, you must overcome the fear of asking for referrals.

Research from Texas Tech shows that 83% of satisfied customers are willing to refer others, yet only 29% actually do, probably because they were never asked to.

The best way to make this happen is to ask twice, one when they sign the contract and the second time when you finish the job. When you’re signing the contract, tell them, “My goal is to do such an amazing job for you that you’ll be glad to refer me to your family and friends. I wanted to get that out on the table. I’ll ask you again for a referral when we’re done with your project.”

Then—keep asking. Create an item on your calendar to loop back with all your customers. This is an opportunity to create a “touch point” with them. Remind them what an amazing contractor you are.

Secondly, decide on your incentive

With your mindset established and everyone on your team pumped to ask customers for referrals, begin building a referral “system” by figuring out your incentive amount. Most people are “What’s in it for me?” focused, so you’ll increase the chances of them participating in your referral program if you offer something in return for the referral

Research shows that of every 10 satisfied customers, 8 want to tell a friend—but only three do. An attractive referral reward might just nudge them to make the effort to be a spokesperson for your brand.

And it doesn’t have to break the bank. If you’ve provided a great experience, $100 or $200 when the prospect signs a contract might be just the thing.

There are two types of incentives: one-sided and two-sided, depending on whether just one person—the referring customer or the prospect—receives a reward or if both do. The most popular type of incentive is two-sided.

Make your referral system simple for customers

Have you ever purchased something and the sales clerk hands you the receipt and describes the process by which you can enter a raffle for a prize. You go to a particular website and then you type in a code into a special page on the website. Like most of us, you probably just wadded up the receipt and ash-canned it.

Your referral program should be the exact opposite of this. Make sure your website is clear and concise, accessible on both computers and mobile devices, with a clear method of referral button on every page.

There are a number of referral program software packages. Referral Factory is an example.

So, create a landing page for your referral program on your website—a central location where customers can get all the facts on your program. Include the landing page in your main navigation. If possible, include a form on the landing page.

Then decide how you’re going to promote the program. Word of mouth is first, of course. Make sure every employee understands your referral system and its key messages. They need to be able to give their “elevator speech” for the referral program at the drop of a hat.

After that’s in place, consider if you’ll promote the program via your email list and/or social media such as Instagram.

If you’ve put your referral program prominently on your website, you can include a one-click referral link so customers can copy and paste the link to share it in whatever way works best for them.

Wrapping up

When you need a program or service, where do you turn? You probably reach out to friends and family for recommendations. Many contractors leave large sums of money on the table by not having a referral program in place that excites their clients enough to recommend their construction business to others.

Whether you’re a small contractor or a large contractor, starting a referral program is well worth the effort.

Did you like this post? Try 13 ideas for retaining skilled tradespeople

12 ways to improve training at your construction company

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 11:39:23 GMT

Are you providing training and development to your crews? It’s a great way to boost employee performance and morale—and increase retention. In other words, it’s a key to how the industry is going to reverse the skilled trades shortage.

Come on and join the movement!

“Our data are telling us that contractors understand the value of training and development, and most are increasing the amount they spend on it every year,” said Brian Turmail, vice president of public affairs and strategic initiatives for Associated General Contractors of America (AGC). “They’re teaching skills that will make workers safer, more productive, and more effective members of the team.”

In the construction industry, the source of the curriculum for all craft training is the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). This Florida-based foundation creates a wide array of construction training—from the technical skills of how to be a better craftsperson to bigger-picture topics such as Crew Leadership.

So, the what of training and development—that is, what will be taught—is provided by NCCER curriculum for the most part. The question for contractors is to find a who —someone to teach the curriculum—and the how —the method/mediums they will use.

Most large contracting companies have their own training and development departments. Small and midsize contractors won’t have trainers on staff but they will often have a person who is in charge of finding third-party training resources.

The AGC convened its inaugural National Construction Industry Workforce Summit in St. Louis, Missouri, at the end of 2021. The event brought together people involved in construction workforce development in some way—contractors, educators, union reps, etc. Here’s a look at some ideas that were raised at the summit for how to build a culture of lifelong learning at your contracting company—both using NCCER curriculum and some other avenues:

Several firms have created effective partnerships to create construction-specific training programs in partnership with local community colleges. Sundt, for example, worked with Central Arizona College to create a series of trade-specific programs, all relying on the NCCER curriculum, to prepare future construction workers.
Several AGC chapters have created construction academies, which offer a basic introduction to construction careers. These programs also offer basic levels of construction training so new hires have some idea of what is involved in these careers and can bring basic skills with them when they are hired.
One firm in New York offers virtual workforce development. They created an app that offers basic video training on a range of construction activities, including traffic control, how to set up a trench box safely, etc. Their app is now being refined in partnership with Caterpillar. Other firms, including Whitaker Construction in Utah, are doing something similar with online platforms and video instruction.
NCCER has a growing video library offering instruction in construction math and other topics. Some of the videos are more hands-on, including ones focusing on topics like “hammer like a pro.”
Several small and medium-size firms say they provide accelerated craft development programs. They do this by providing on-the-job training with the foreman and area managers teaching classroom training. These trainers are in turn receiving coaching from the executive team on softer skills such as empathy and patience.
The industry has worked with a number of school districts to create programs such as Utah’s UBC Pathways. That program offers 10 different tracks students can take starting as early as 9th The program offers a stackable credentialing system. The students in the program are provided with internships with local construction firms. Eighty-five percent of those interns stay with their companies.
Turner Construction is bringing union and open shop partners together at some of its Nebraska construction projects to identify obstacles to training, share resources, and explore broader challenges—such as transportation barriers and child-care needs.
Contractors should identify local, state, and federal funding opportunities to help support training programs.
Contractors can get involved with local Workforce Investment Boards. These entities have access to resources that could be used to fund construction training programs. But unless construction people are at the table when funding decisions are made, these grants will likely be used for other sectors.
Contractors should conduct a needs analysis before creating new training programs. Firms should first understand what skills and competencies are missing by listening to workers, conducting roundtable conversations, and even conducting a staff survey. Once that is done, the firm can put in place training that employees want and need to succeed in their careers.
Contractors shouldn’t underestimate the value of soft skills training. These skills will help your employees be better leaders and co-workers. And they will help them be more successful in their interactions with partner firms and owners.
Contractors should build strong partnerships with local training providers. Construction firms aren’t educators and educators aren’t construction firms. Both of you have unique competencies. The more that is understood and embraced, the more firms and trainers can work together to create the kind of programs that produce successful employees.

Wrapping up

AGC of America concluded the summit with two challenges to all attendees. The first was to understand, appreciate and operate with the knowledge that they are not alone—look for opportunities to collaborate with other workforce development programs. The second challenge was to take at least one training and development idea covered during the summit and implement it back home. Which of these ideas would work in your market?

Did you like this post? Try 13 ideas for retaining skilled tradespeople

13 ideas for retaining skilled tradespeople

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 11:42:25 GMT

When you finally—somehow—found those skilled tradespeople you’ve been looking and looking for, your job isn’t over.

There’s more to getting the workers. You have to keep them. Your best skilled tradespeople can be poached by other contractors willing to pay a few dollars more an hour. Or, a new worker could quit over just about anything, this being the time of the Great Resignation. They didn’t like their assigned tasks of the day. The foreman looked at them wrong. Whatever—they knew they could easily get a job somewhere else.

The Associated General Contractors of America convened its inaugural National Construction Industry Workforce Summit in St. Louis, Missouri, at the end of 2021. The event brought together people involved in construction workforce development in some way—contractors, educators, union reps, etc.

Attendees broke into small groups to brainstorm. Here’s what they came up with on the topic of “retention.”

Several contractors noted that they have added new training programs for foremen and field supervisors to help with retention of new, younger employees. The programs focus on “soft” skills such as patience and communication. They are also designed to help front line leaders share their vision and work plan for the project, so younger workers better understand how they are contributing.
McCarthy Construction in Georgia has had success retaining craft workers nearing retirement age by moving them into “Field Coordinator” roles. These part-time positions provide more work/life balance—but allow the field coordinator to stay engaged and mentor new employees. The program has a heavy focus on training newer employees with less experience. The position offers more flexibility and more vacation days.
Some contractors spoke to the role mentorship programs have on the retention of skilled tradespeople. Some firms even boost mentors’ pay. Most new employees leave in the first two weeks of work, but having mentors make them feel welcomed and doing simple things like showing them where the break area is and eating lunch with them really helps. Supporting new hires during that first month is crucial. Mentors need to be willing and trained to be effective.
Finding effective childcare solutions is also key to retaining more workers. Some firms have worked with local employment agencies to secure grants to cover childcare costs. Other firms are looking at ways to offer craft workers the same flexibility they offer to accountants and estimators in the office.
A number of contractors rely on employee engagement surveys to gather feedback. These surveys let employees know they are being listened to. But it is also important to act on, when appropriate, recommendations in these surveys so employees know they aren’t just being heard but appreciated. Some surveys ask questions about the quality of their orientation program. Others ask employees what they want to accomplish or whether new employees have friends at work.
Firms that require workers to travel frequently endeavor to retain those employees by offering a bonus. For example, one firm offers a 20 percent bonus for anyone traveling for more than two weeks. They also offer alternating three-day weekends for those workers to spend time back home or fly spouses and family out to them.
Inclusion drives diversity. People feel more welcome, valued and appreciated when they know their perspectives and contributions are valued. Firms need to ask employees from disadvantaged groups what they are comfortable talking about and have intentional conversations around differences. Understanding is the first step to inclusion.
Don’t take your eye of the ball on safety. If workers don’t feel safe, they don’ter4trfg stay. Ensuring that your firm is doing everything possible to promote and deliver on workplace safety is key for many reasons, but also a clear factor in supporting employee retention, especially within the craft workforce.
Put in place a zero-tolerance policy for unacceptable workplace behavior. Just as most firms have a zero-tolerance policy for safety infractions, they need to put in place programs that make clear that inappropriate behavior is not allowed on the job site. As important is making sure all employees understand what inappropriate behavior is.
Put in place role-specific incentives instead of project-based ones. There are people working very hard on projects that end up not being successful. Meanwhile there are people who aren’t working very hard on successful projects. Instead of rewarding teams based on the success of the overall project, reward people for the success they are having with their specific tasks.
Workers want more than high pay—they also want retirement plans like 401ks and pensions and opportunities to improve their skills and advance their careers. Firms that offer these kinds of retirement programs and other benefits are often more successful in retaining their employees, especially if there is a minimum vesting period for the savings plan. Likewise, firms that provide opportunities for employees to learn new skills and advance their careers are more likely to retain employees, particularly those who are ambitious.
Put in place non-monetary compensation programs too. Many employees want greater flexibility, more training, and opportunities to lead or mentor. Newer workers need greater flexibility as they start their families, but they also want to grow and develop their skills and want opportunities to lead teams and share their skills.
Conduct periodic “stay interviews” with current staff. Similar to an exit interview, some firms are conducting “stay interviews” with every employee throughout the year to try and catch problems/unhappy employees before they find a new job and leave. They’ve seen success in identifying culture problems specifically and implementing changes to increase their retention rates.

Wrapping up

AGC of America concluded the summit with two challenges to all attendees. The first was to understand, appreciate and operate with the knowledge that they are not alone—look for opportunities to collaborate with other workforce development programs. The second challenge was to take at least one retention idea covered during the summit and implement it back home. Which of these ideas would work in your market?

Did you like this post? Check out How contractors can team up with local schools to reverse the skilled trades talent shortage

19 ideas for improving skilled trades recruiting

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 11:45:11 GMT

Whoever has the best skilled tradespeople wins—or so the saying could go.

Not so easy, though, in light of the glaring shortage of such workers. Contractors can use their own personal networks—referrals from their top workers, for example—or they can find potential workers at a temporary agency and bring them on for a “working interview.” Temporary agencies are always an option, too, when you land a job that’s bigger than usual or you come under a super-tight deadline.

To date, the responses to this skilled tradesperson shortage have all been short-term fixes. If the skilled trades shortage is going to be solved long term—permanently—it’s going to be solved by contractors rolling up their sleeves and getting involved.

But where do you start?

Attendees broke into small groups to brainstorm. Here’s what they came up with on the topic of “recruitment”:

Contractors participate in career days/job fairs at local high schools or technical schools. These firms develop strong working relationships with the schools and spend a lot of time on campus setting up and supporting construction-specific programs that can then serve as a pipeline for new craftspeople into that firm.
Some contractors use career fairs to bring students from multiple high schools to a single point, such as a fairground, where they can be exposed to a wide range of craft skills, construction equipment, and construction technology.
Some states, notably Florida with its Florida Apprenticeship program, offer workers’ compensation waivers for firms that hire students out of local high schools. In exchange, contractors agree to pay those high school “apprentices” the same pay rate as other apprentices.
Some contractors engage with middle- and high-school-aged girls and their mothers during PowerUp sessions that offer after-hours demonstrations and introductions to construction careers to help make them comfortable with the idea of working in the industry.
Some contractors use digital advertising and social media to reach high-potential industry recruits as well as target key influencers, such as coaches, teachers, and parents.
Some contractors suggested working with state education authorities to create a training program for construction industry outreach specialists. These specialists then work with high school students to help them explore different career paths within the industry and work in coordination with local high school guidance counselors.
One contractor used virtual reality glasses to provide OSHA10 and OSHA30 training to high school classrooms. Other firms use VR headsets to safely expose high school students to different construction opportunities, including equipment operation and welding.
Some AGC chapters have worked with workforce investment boards to secure funding for scholarships for childcare so their parents can earn a living in careers such as construction.
AGC chapters have created special summer construction academies. These academies offer multiweek paid opportunities for rising junior and senior high school students. The students split their time between CTE programs and being on actual construction jobsites.
The AGC Georgia chapter hosts Trade Talks, where they bring in high school guidance counselors and explain the construction career opportunities that are available, what it takes to qualify for them, and how much students can earn in their careers.
Other chapters work with local school districts to offer “intro to construction careers” programs to younger students. In Georgia, students are introduced to construction careers at the second-grade level.
Construction firms are being more strategic about who they send to do the recruiting. They send diverse role models into school programs and other recruiting events to speak to increasingly diverse student populations.
One school official from Oklahoma recommended that when construction firms visit schools, they bring more hands-on activities; bring teachers out to jobsites; and recruit older, semiretired contractors to teach.
Many construction firms and chapters also talked about the work they do to create single online job boards for all available local construction career opportunities. This way, potential applicants have a one-stop portal for finding available career opportunities.
Some suggested promoting the fact that workers can pursue careers in construction and earn college degrees at the same time. Many construction career paths offer young workers an opportunity to earn an Associate in Applied Science degree while they learn their craft. They can then transfer those credits when they enroll in construction management and other four-year programs. In addition, some apprenticeship programs have partnered with colleges so that participants can also earn degrees.
Someone suggested making educators feel like an extension of the industry: Bring them to jobsites, explain the earning potential in the construction industry, and bring them to construction firm offices so they can experience the many different types of career opportunities available in construction.
Some suggested playing to the industry’s strengths—highlighting the sense of accomplishment that comes with building structures: Talk about the teamwork aspects of construction, the fact the challenges are different each day, the sense of accomplishment from “I built that,” and the earning potential in construction.
Some suggested that labor and management work together to improve entrance into the industry. Individual trades have different time requirements, application periods, and expectations. No interested individual should be turned away if a specific trade doesn’t have an opening in its apprenticeship programs. The trades need to create portals to track openings and improve reciprocity so that individuals can begin earning and learning Day One even if they ultimately prefer a different trade.
Some suggested community events to raise the profile of the industry. For example, go to community festivals and fairs or participate in neighborhood cookouts or local Boys and Girls Clubs events.

Wrapping up

AGC of America concluded the summit with two challenges to all attendees. The first was to understand, appreciate, and operate with the knowledge that they are not alone—to look for opportunities to collaborate with other workforce development programs. The second challenge was to take at least one idea covered during the summit and implement it back home. Which of these ideas could work in your market?

Did you like this post? Check out How contractors can team up with local schools to reverse the skilled trades talent shortage

Nine ideas for holding a productive safety meeting

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 11:50:17 GMT

Safety meetings, or toolbox talks as they’re sometimes called, have a bad rep for being time wasters. Think of all the boring safety meetings you’ve sat—or stood—through.

Sure, everyone wants to stay safe on a jobsite—but how many people look forward to another safety meeting/toolbox talk?

It doesn’t have to be that way. A safety meeting is a great way to remind employees of the safety practices that they’ve already learned, perhaps in onboarding. Also, a safety meeting is a great way to introduce new information. Maybe your company bought some new equipment, or maybe safety regulations have changed.

In this post, we’ll look at nine ideas for how you can make your regular toolbox talks something that your teams actually look forward to.

Focus on one topic

Have you heard of TED Talks? In these presentations, some of the world’s leading thinkers are challenged to “give the talk of their lives”—and do it in 18 minutes or less. The average site boss isn’t under those constraints. Too often, the temptation for bosses is to go on and on and on, making their presentation 60 to 90 minutes of boring stats, facts, and data.

It doesn’t have to be that way. Instead of trying to “fill” the meeting with information and content, focus on the one idea or concept that can really make your people safer. For example, a crew might need to discuss trenching hazards or working in cold weather or in confined spaces. Toolbox talks need to cover the information that best applies to the group that receives the talk—and that’s it. It is up to each worksite to determine what makes the most sense for them.

Keep it short

Toolbox talks should be around five to 10 minutes. That may not sound like much of a safety commitment, but just dedicating five minutes a day to deliver a safety message equates to over 20 hours of education per employee in a year’s time!

More complex topics, such as your company’s lockout/tagout procedures, may take a little longer than 10 minutes, but try to keep the meeting succinct.

Allow for employee engagement

The best safety meetings will be two-way communication. Encourage your team members to ask questions, voice concerns, and provide feedback. Maybe get workers involved by having them demonstrate a particular safe work practice. Another “trick”: Ahead of the meeting, ask trusted employees to share their own experiences, and recognize them for doing the right things. Maybe you should stop calling it a safety meeting and call it a safety conversation.

Get the boss(es) involved

Managers or supervisors should come to safety meetings. That’s a great way for them to make a “statement” about the importance of safety to the company. Have them sit in on safety meetings. They could even lead one. This shows employees that the whole company values safety.

Be punctual

Said differently, start and end your meetings on time. Starting an 8 a.m. safety meeting at 8:02 sends the message that safety’s not a priority. Ending meetings on time is equally important. There’s nothing worse than sitting in a meeting that drags on past its allotted time. Wrapping up on schedule shows that you value attendees’ time.

Include a call to action

Every meeting should have a call to action that either advances an idea or inspires people to be better. People want to know what you want them to do with the information you give them. So tell them what you expect to happen. Then give them the opportunity to put it into action.

Do your prep work

If you look unprepared, that sends a clear message—the wrong message. It says you have more important things on your list than safety. Nothing’s as important as safety—and you show that by prepping well for every meeting you lead. If you don’t look forward to toolbox talks, then nobody else will either.

Tell stories

Reach out to the “influencers” on your team. Ask them if they’ve had a profound safety experience in their career. Do they have a story of getting hurt and how it changed their life? Or maybe a near miss? Having respected coworkers share their stories can be super powerful.

Accentuate the positive

This is not the time to scold workers. Who wants to pay attention to that? Nor should you share gruesome stories/photos. A positive, encouraging approach to toolbox talks can foster stronger safety skills, better awareness, and more engagement with the company’s safety culture.

Wrapping up

Safety meetings don’t have to be boring. In fact, they can be something your team looks forward to—a great way to start the day on the right foot! The message is clear: Safety is the most important thing we will do today.

Growing your construction business through contingent labor

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 11:53:02 GMT

The smartest companies have learned to deftly adjust to changing production levels through the use of contingent labor—turning fixed costs into variable costs.

A general contractor working on a large multi-family job was in a pinch because he had to fire his framing contractor. He needed framers—now. And framers who owned a particular kind of air compressor. Before this, he had equated temporary labor to day labor—unskilled and unreliable. They didn’t realize they could hire highly skilled and experienced carpenters from a temp agency. And they found a temp agency that could screen the framers for their skill as well as whether they had the right kind of compressor, among other specifics capabilities.
A contractor handling all the low-voltage work for a specialty grocery chain found it hard to keep a crew busy full time, as the workload fluctuated week to week and season to season. He found a skilled trades temporary partner who could fill in with workers—five or six, sometimes 10 or more—all over the market. When the winter slowdown arrived, he didn’t have to go through the headache and heartache of a layoff. He just called his staffing partner and told them which workers would be off, for how long, and that he expected to get them back out when work picked back up again. In the meantime, the staffing partner filled in the gap for the workers, and they were available to go back to working the grocer’s jobs when the contractor had the work.
A contractor at a large hospital job was getting hammered by deadlines. Inspections and walk-throughs loomed. What was getting in the way of progress was all the clean-up that needed to get done. He found a temporary staffing agency that provided a small army of skilled laborers to do clean-up—people who had specific skills with specific tools. Their contact at the staffing firm would call regularly to see how the workers were performing and made regular safety inspections to make sure, for example, everyone was wearing their PPE. The contractor ended up hiring several of the workers full-time.

Contingent workers make up around 2 percent of the overall US workforce. The American Staffing Association reports that the staffing industry makes a vital contribution to the U.S. economy while servicing businesses across virtually all industries. Staffing provided jobs and career opportunities for about 16 million employees per year pre-pandemic (13.6 million during the pandemic).

In the cyclical manufacturing and logistics sector, use of contingent works runs as high as 20 percent to 30 percent for some roles. The average for construction companies is 11 percent.

Where does your construction company land?

Have you learned the benefits of hiring contingent workers when you need more skilled tradespeople?

It’s really a no brainer.

Turn fixed costs into variable costs

With contingent labor, you only pay for the workers you need when you need them. You’re not paying people to stand around on a construction site. Temporary labor employment offers you the flexibility you need to serve your clients. You can grow your business as you need, for a certain amount of time, and then shrink personnel and costs back down. You can look for personnel to fill certain roles without committing to individuals as full-time workers.

Reduce overtime pay

Rather than putting additional demands on current permanent staff, an employer can use a staffing agency to handle the extra work during busy times. Better that than burning out your full-time employees.

Goodbye hiring hassles

Think about going through that mountain of resumes and applications. The drug screenings and background checks. A good temporary agency will handle all of that. Most temp agencies have pools of qualified individuals that they sought out and already interviewed. Also, the tradespeople they send you will all be highly skilled—so no worry about training.

Reduced administrative costs

Many temporary labor firms will handle the bulk of the administrative costs related to the workers themselves. A good constructive staffing agency will handle all the employment-related tax filings, obtaining employee benefits. Legislative/regulatory requirements—for example, the Affordable Care Act—can make it difficult to remain compliant. A good staffing agency handles the regulatory and legal requirements for hiring staff.

No more bad hires

Bad hires are bad for business—they cause productivity to tank and waste money on advertising and training for a replacement. If a temporary hire turns out to be a valuable asset to your company, you can offer them a permanent position within your company. When you work with a staffing agency to hire temporary employees, you can use a temporary assignment as sort of a “working interview”—making sure he/she can handle the job and that he/she is a fit for your culture.

Wrapping up

Temporary staffing can be used by big and small businesses alike in almost any industry. On average, construction companies make 11 percent of their workforce temporary, gaining a flexibility that allows them to respond to the unforeseen ups and downs of the construction industry.

Did you like this post? Try this one: How can contractors find skilled tradespeople?

How can contractors find skilled tradespeople?

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 11:59:00 GMT

Contractors, are you having any luck finding skilled tradespeople for your projects so you can grow your company? It can be tough. It’s been that way for more than 10 years, when a lot of workers left construction during the Great Recession never to return.

Compounding that loss is the fact that 40% of today’s skilled tradespeople are set to retire by 2031 and young people haven’t been coming into the trades in great numbers since the 70s. Right now, only 5% of high school parents expect their children to go into the skilled trades.

The shortage of workers in construction has also contributed to a record backlog of homes authorized but not started. You’ve probably had to push back projects yourself.

So what can you do? In this post, we will look at some steps contractors can take that could lead to an increase of skilled tradespeople in the not too distant future. We’ll split these “fixes” into immediate, medium-term and long-term fixes.

Immediate fixes to the skilled tradesperson shortage

Post ads for open jobs

Yes, there are fewer skilled tradespeople than there were 20 years ago, but they are out there. Somewhere. The key is to find them and a very common way to find them is through job ads on sites such as Indeed.com.

There’s a right way and a wrong way to post a job ad:

Make sure you use commonly recognized job titles that will show up in Google searches. That way, you’ll get found.
Include enough detail about the job without making it too long. A few bullet points should do it.
Include a few key upsides of the job to make it attractive to applicants.
Include the pay rate if at all possible.
Also, make sure that your job ad uses inclusive language so your ad will resonate with female skilled tradespersons. For example, avoid verbiage like this: “Equipment installation and set up takes around 16 man-hours to complete.”

Start an employee referral program

Referral programs reward your employees for referring a talented candidate who ultimately gets hired and stays with the company for a predetermined period of time. Referral bonuses typically range from $1,000 and $5,000.

In essence, your employees become “brand ambassadors” for your construction company—telling their friends what a great place to work it is. If you start an employee referral program and get no referrals, it could be a sign that your employees are dissatisfied with your company. (That will be a blog post for another day!)

Make the process simple for your employees. Use an online employee referral tool with a simple online form. Also, you can go “old school” and put a dropbox in the site trailers where people can drop in friends’ names.

Offer a hiring bonus

Hiring bonuses were a perk that used to be reserved for management, but more and more construction companies are offering signing bonuses to skilled tradespeople. According to the Associated General Contractors of America, close to one-quarter of contractors reported using bonuses to attract employees, ranging between a few hundred dollars to over $1,500 per worker.

Some contractors fear the possibility of a bidding war. They’re concerned contractors doing large projects, like the $10 billion Foxconn factory in Wisconsin, will be able to offer larger signing bonuses to lure workers away.

Find a temporary staffing provider

The idea behind temporary staffing, or contingent labor, as it’s also called, is the contractor shifts costs from fixed to variable. When your production levels increase, you bring on more temporary labor and then simply reduce your contingent staff load when things slow down.

Some contractors think that since temp agencies all gather workers from the same pool on unemployed people, their service is a commodity. Not so. Make sure your staffing agency checks these boxes:

You want a staffing provider that is specialized in your type of work.
You want a staffing provider staffed with local people with connections to the industry locally—staffed out of a local branch. You don’t want to have to deal with people from “headquarters.”
You want a temporary agency that walks the talk when it comes to safety.
You want a staffing agency that handles extra costs such as employee benefits and FICA, FUTA, and SUTA, not to mention workers’ comp.

But what if the skilled tradespeople just aren’t out there in sufficient numbers? What do you do then? Is there a way to “grow your own”?

Yes. That brings us to . . .

Medium-term fixes to the skilled tradesperson shortage

Get your best general laborers into an apprentice program

It takes about four years to create a journeyman tradesperson through a learn-as-you-earn apprentice program. So what are you waiting for? The sooner you start, the sooner you’ll solve your skilled tradesperson shortage.

An apprenticeship is an arrangement where you get hands-on training under the supervision of journey-level craftsperson, classroom instruction and a paycheck that steadily grows as your skills grow.

The best way to start is to cherry-pick your best general laborers and get them started on apprenticeships. See : How a general labor job can get you into the construction industry.

If you’re using a staffing firm for your general laborer needs, make sure the agency understands you want general laborers with an interest in a career in the trades. The best staffing providers take the time to understand their workers’ hopes and goals.

Long-term fix to the skilled tradesperson shortage

Much of the skill tradesperson shortage is due to the fact that the industry has a negative image among high school kids and women .

School kids are encouraged to pursue a college degree rather than a construction career. School guidance counselors have cast the trades as an inferior career choice to college.

Meanwhile, women can see construction as unwelcoming. Construction is, still, mainly a white male world. Almost all the women in construction are in clerical roles. Electricians and plumbers are 98% male.

The construction industry needs to rebrand itself, and much of that work is underway by industry groups such as ABC and AGC. For example, in 2018, Lowe’s Home Improvement launched Generation T, a “digital-first movement” to educate communities on the skilled trades gap and raise awareness for good careers that are going unfilled. Since that time, the movement has reached over 10 million people across the United States online. In 2019, Generation T was awarded an American Advertising Award as one of the country’s best social media programs.

“ The goal of Generation T is to inspire an entire generation to explore skilled trade careers,” said Michael Mitchell, Lowe’s Trade Skills Director. “By educating students and parents about these fields, and connecting companies and mentors to interested candidates, we can start to fill the skilled trades job pipeline.”

Are there any steps a contractor can take to improve construction’s image in the eyes of schoolkids?

One large construction company who is reaching out to young people is Barton Malow based in Southfield, Mich. They have created the Barton Malow Boot Camp. It’s a six-week paid work experience program that provides an opportunity for area residents between the ages of 18-24 to learn industry fundamentals.

Every boot camper is assigned a Barton Malow mentor, a skilled tradesperson on the project site, who spends two days per week during the program providing career guidance and hands-on demonstrations to the participants.

But what about small and medium-size contractors? What can they do to change kids’ view of construction and help themselves grow?

At Hamilton Heights High School just outside of Indianapolis, construction and engineering teacher Eric Fisher oversees a program that sends out kids in their senior year to local contractors in paid pre-apprenticeship model.

“I sent the first kid to a virtual design lab. The first Friday he got paid, all the other kids saw it and started clamoring to get involved. It took off.”

Eric’s advice to contractors who want to get involved in their local schools?

“Don’t go to the guidance counselors. Nowadays, the guidance department is in charge of testing, mental health, dealing with overbearing parents who want to get their kids into an Ivy League school. Instead, find the name of the construction teachers in your community and go to them. That’s how it will start growing.”

In terms of women, the Building Talent Foundation recently released a study, Women Breaking Barriers, A Guide to Recruiting, Training and Retaining Women in the Residential Construction Trades. Based on insights in the study, The Building Talent Foundation released The Small Contractor Quick-Start Guide to New Talent.

“No single employer can tackle these challenges on their own,” the foundation said in the guide. “Partner and build relationships with other organizations to reach untapped talent.”

In sum, the guide calls contractors to begin forming and nurturing relationships with women interested in the skilled trades and organizations helping such women. For example:

Contractors could join forces with “collective impact organizations” that build workforce programs. An example of a “collective impact organization” is Wisconsin Regional Training Partnership, which works to help traditionally underrepresented and underemployed people like women and people of color get into the skilled trades.
Contractors could build relationships with prospective female skilled tradespeople by speaking at career events, mentoring, hosting mock interviews and job-site visits.
Contractors could build relationships with established community organizations and social service programs that offer “wrap-around supports” such as childcare, transportation and counseling.

Meanwhile, contractors could “build inclusion” by doing a better job of making sure women understand they are welcome in the trades. Some things they could do:

Make sure your websites and employee materials feature inclusive language and diverse imagery.
Create a formal inclusion statement for your organization and feature it prominently on your website and materials.
Start thinking about safety differently, creating a “Total Safety Culture” that also focuses on psychological safety. This will help keep women safe from intimidation and violence.
Conduct training programs for all employees on treating one another with respect. The guide points contractors toward several training firms that provide training “to businesses of all sizes and budgets.”

The report’s authors encourage contractors to create a baseline on how well they are reaching diverse talent, perhaps including an employee survey. Then the contractor could track its progress against that baseline.

“Be willing to try new methods,” the study’s authors say. “Learn from your mistakes and train again. Be sure to share learnings with partners.”

Wrapping up

You can find skilled tradespeople—or “grow your own—to help you grow your construction business. Start small—jobs ads and an employee referral program, for example. Slowly, start doing your part to change the image of construction among high schoolers and women by getting involved with programs in your community.

How contractors can use technology to grow their businesses

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 12:05:56 GMT

Contractor, how tech-savvy are you?

Do you use any apps on your smartphone? How about a drone—have you ever used a drone to survey a construction site?

Probably not. The construction industry has been a relatively conservative one, slow to adopt innovative materials, technologies, and processes.

But construction technology can boost productivity, enable collaboration, give greater control of the value chain, and shift a contractor toward data-driven decision-making.

“There’s so much pressure and risk associated with projects that people tend to behave with hyper cautiousness,” said John Palmer, Associate Director for Technology with the Construction Industry Association. “They usually aren’t willing to try something new and adjust if needed—trial and error.”

Here is a look at eight technologies that are changing the landscape of the construction industry.

Construction management software

Construction management software is a project management platform that helps companies with processes such as budget management, communication, decision-making, and job scheduling. Its goal is to make construction business processes a lot easier through automation.

An example is monday.com , which is used for numerous industries, not just construction. They call their product a “Work OS,” but you might also have heard of the term “workforce management platform.”

“When you think of construction, you think of all the regulations and approvals and signatures—getting the back office to talk to the front. Imagine even a small improvement in your operational efficiency,” said Matthew Burns, Startup Ecosystem Leader with monday.com . “If you think of time spent as a direct dollar cost, imagine how much saving five-plus hours a week per employee would mean to your business. That’s only the beginning with a Work OS.”

Robots and Drones

Robots are used to perform difficult, repetitive tasks. For example, Construction Robotics’ semi-automated mason can install 200 to 250 bricks per hour, compared to a human’s capability of 250 bricks a day!

The most common robots used on construction sites are drones. They make surveying quick and simple. Drones can spot potential hazards and track progress. Some contractors even use drones to deliver materials to the construction site. Who needs trucks?

Drones can monitor sites for safety hazards and give the foreman a quick view of the site without being physically present.

AI and Machine Learning

Artificial Intelligence is when a machine mimics human cognitive functions such as problem-solving and pattern recognition. Machine learning, a subset of AI, uses statistical techniques to give computer systems the ability to “learn” from data, without being explicitly programmed.

For example, requests for information, open issues, and change orders are standard in the industry. Machine learning is like a smart assistant that can scrutinize this mountain of data. It then alerts project managers about the critical things that need their attention.

Contractors are using AI and Machine Learning for “predictive design”—that is, taking multiple factors into account such as weather or location. Machine learning can be used to explore different variations of a solution and create design alternatives. Using historical data, AI can predict cost overruns. AI can monitor a worksite for safety hazards, using recognition technology to tell if a worker is wearing the correct PPE.

Building Information Modeling

BIM started as a way of creating 3-D models so interested parties could look at all the dimensions of space and avoid problems. But it has elevated—become more intelligent. For example, it can consider the cost of materials and scheduling.

BIM allows contractors, engineers, and architects to collaborate on coordinated 3D models, giving everyone better insight into how their work fits into the overall project. They can use the model to improve design before it’s built and solve problems along the way.

Apps

You can use them wherever you are—the trailer, your truck or even your home kitchen table.

ANC Construction in Chicago uses the Hubstaff time card app. It lets President Javier Enciso Jr. know where his crews are, what they’re doing and when they’re clocked in—all from his smartphone.

For example, with Hubstaff, Javier can set up a digital barrier known as a “geofence.” Once a crew member enters or leaves a set area, their smartphone’s GPS will automatically clock them in or out.

“I wanted workers to clock in daily on each job site, but I no longer had the time to do it manually,” he said. “Knowing how long workers are taking to move from one job to another or exactly where your workers are at all times is vital in construction.”

Virtual or augmented reality

What’s the difference, you ask? Virtual reality is being totally immersed in a digital world through a special mask of some kind. Augmented reality just adds digital elements to your “real” view.

Either way, the technologies can help you and your customer gain a better understanding of the project right from the very beginning—even large, complex projects. With a simulation of proposed changes, you can quickly know if it’s the right solution or needs tweaking.

What if you used AR/VR to create a building model with BIM technology and then to take a sightseeing tour and literally walk through and around it?

3-D printing

Sometimes referred to as Additive Manufacturing, 3-D printing is the computer-controlled sequential layering of materials to create three-dimensional shapes, often prototypes, for example. 3-D printing allows contactors to create project models that show how the project would look finished.

3-D printing provides the capability to either prefabricate offsite or directly on-site. Compared to traditional building methods, now it is possible to print materials important for prefabrication and have them ready to use immediately.

Materials such as metal can be costly to print, and in this case, it may be more cost-effective to print a mold and then to use that to create the item.

Applicant tracking system

Larger contractors with HR departments and recruiters make great use of Applicant Tracking Systems, a software for recruiters and employers to track candidates throughout the recruiting and hiring process.

Most skilled trades staffing firms also use ATS.

“Everyone knows about the skilled trades talent shortage. There are a ton of job openings out there. You need to make your firm stand out,” said Dustin Ide, General Manager of Great Lakes Skilled Trades in Grand Rapids. “We’re treating the available workers like customers. We sent out text message blasts. We hit them where they live—their smartphones. The point is to build a relationship by ‘touching’ them multiple times. They may not be looking now, but you have to stay top-of-mind with them, so they’ll think of you when they are looking.”

“Technology can bring huge productivity gains for contractors,” John Palmer of the Construction Industry Association said. “But to get there, owners, contractors, and suppliers need to adopt a more balanced view of risk and opportunity. The balance is way out of whack. So often now, it’s assumed the risk exceeds the opportunity to improve and the ‘safe’ route is the one taken.”

Did you like this post? Check out How contractors can team up with local schools

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How contractors can team up with local schools to reverse the skilled trades talent shortage

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 12:09:47 GMT

At its inaugural National Construction Workforce Summit, the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) exhorted contractors to make connections with local schoolteachers, administrators and parents as a way to get kids interested in construction and provide a long-term solution to the skilled trades talent shortage.

“Ultimately, everyone in the construction industry is going to have to get involved to solve this problem,” said Brian Turmail, Vice President for Public Affairs & Strategic Initiatives with AGC of America. “No one is going to do it for us.”

One of the speakers at the summit was Eric Fisher, teacher at Hamilton Heights High School just outside of Indianapolis. He spoke with attendees about his construction ed program, saying that local contractors have come into his class multiple times to speak with students and do demonstrations. “Just the other day we had a master mason come in to mix mortar and lay bricks.”

“My encouragement to contractors is to find out who is teaching industrial arts and say, ‘Hey, what can we do to help you?’” Eric said. “It’s about making a connection. The more the kids in high school have positive interactions with a contractor, the more likely they are to consider construction as a career and we can turn around the skilled trades talent shortage.”

The summit was held in St. Louis in October of 2021. The summit brought together AGC chapter staff, contractors, union reps and educators in one room to brainstorm how to create a pipeline of high school kids entering the skilled trades.

Here are some of the ideas that were shared at the summit:

Contractors “adopting” a high school to source speakers, create career fairs, etc.

“We’re talking about connecting with more than just the ‘shop class,’” Brian said. “We want broader penetration. Contractors need to become known by local school officials and teachers so they can understand what construction’s all about. That way, they can include it in their options when they’re discussing career paths with students. All teachers and guidance counselors know about construction is what they see when they drive past a construction site. If you don’t live it, you don’t think about it. This is a way to get into the psyche of school officials.”

Brief summer academy for students

“This is a way to offer students a chance to come into your business and learn about the industry,” Brian said. “You can even work it out that the students can get school credit for coming to the academy. When you get them inside your firm, they can see all the things they could do in construction in addition to building structures.”

Youth apprenticeship for 16- and 17-year-olds

“At the summit, we had a teacher share about his apprenticeship program. He was able to get funding through the Department of Labor. The construction education program was registered with the Department of Labor. This is going to give the kids some formalized training in construction.”

“Educating the educators” through visits to jobs sites and interaction with industry employees

“For example, you’d bring the teachers and guidance counselors out to a project site, show them what’s involved,” Brian said. “Broaden their understanding.”

Partner with school districts to provide credit courses

“This would be similar to the summer academy, but you’d do it at school during the school year. There are all sorts of disciplines that you could teach to—math and science, for example. Construction isn’t just about swinging hammers.”

Exposing grade school kids to construction

“The kids are already doing crafts—Lincoln Logs. This is a way to show them that there is a whole career related to constructing things with your hands. For example, bring them to the equipment warehouse—have a ‘petting zoo’ when they can climb on the equipment.”

Externship program for teachers, parents and students to hear from apprentices, equipment operators and employers

“In an externship program, teachers spend a semester actually working with construction firms and learning about the profession. This is a great way to make sure that what the teacher teaches about construction to the students mirrors what is happening in the real world. There are grants to help make this happen.”

None of these ideas are quick fixes, Brian acknowledged. The industry needs to “play the long game,” he said.

“It’s about making an investment in time and effort to begin building those relationships and getting educators to think of construction as a career path. It’s not going to happen overnight, but we need to start now. If we don’t invest now we won’t have anybody to work our projects for us. We got to put a huge effort in now until the pendulum swings back and schools value careers in construction.”

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Everything you need to know to become a heavy equipment operator

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 12:14:43 GMT

If there ever was a time to become a heavy equipment operator, it’s now

For years there’s been a shortage of heavy equipment operators. Young people just haven’t been going into the trades because schools are pointing students toward college. In addition to that, we are now faced with the looming mega infrastructure spending bill that will only compound the shortage of heavy equipment operators. There will be thousands of infrastructure projects—bridges, roads, etc.—when the bill finally gets approved, and we won’t have the workforce to meet that demand.

The time is now. Think about it. Earn great living working with cool equipment with all kinds of advanced technology.

So what do you do?

You’re in the right place. Reading this article is a great way to begin your quest toward becoming a heavy equipment operator. We’ll explain about what kind of training you need to become an expert operator and how much you can expect to earn.

Our guide on this journey will be Scott Loberg, Vice President of Education and Safety with Associated Builders and Contractors of Illinois. Before his current role, he spent 25 years as a heavy equipment operator with his father’s construction company in northern Illinois—“everything other than cranes,” he said.

What do heavy equipment operators do?

In residential and commercial construction, before the first nail is hammered in place or the first sheet of drywall is hung, the site has to be prepared for construction. That means earth needs to be moved—lots of it—and you certainly don’t want to do it with a shovel! You need large machines. Backhoes, bulldozers, soil stabilizers, dump trucks, loaders, forklifts and excavators.

Most of this machinery is needed on the front end of a construction job, but not always—cranes, for example may be needed too.

Contractors love heavy equipment because they allow them to get large jobs done quickly with little or no manual labor.

Heavy equipment operators use four main types of equipment: back-hoes, bulldozers, front-end loaders and graders. Some operators work with several types of equipment while others choose to specialize:

Back-Hoe: Scoops and dumps materials, digs trenches, loads heavy materials and breaks concrete
Bulldozer : clears and levels land
Front-End Loader : picks up earth, rock, sand, gravel or snow, then moves and dumps them
Grader Operator : Spreads and levels earth or other materials.

What kind of training is required to become a heavy equipment operator?

Broadly, there are three routes you can take: apprenticeship, community college/technical school, or heavy equipment operator school.

Apprenticeship As with all apprentice programs, union and non-union, this is an “earn while you learn” approach, combining classroom study with work for pay on a construction site. Associated Builders and Contractors offers apprenticeship for Heavy equipment as well as other trades. The International Union of Operating Engineers also has apprenticeship programs. This system is designed to give someone who knows little or nothing about the trade the knowledge to become a journey-level operating engineer.

College and technical school Most community colleges and tech/vocational schools offer heavy equipment operator programs. The programs vary, from a few weeks or several months to one-year certification programs or even two-year associate degree programs. Obviously, the lengthier and more in-depth the program, the better you are prepared for the workforce.

Heavy equipment operator school Heavy Equipment Colleges of American operates eight campuses across the country that offer three-week programs. Some classroom work is required, but much of the teaching is done hands-on in the field.

Said Scott: “Anyone can learn these skills. Some are just more adept than others. Some people are pilots, some are cooks. Can everyone cook? Yes, but not everyone is a gourmet chef. Mastering the piece of equipment—where it’s an extension of yourself—probably takes several years.”

What about licenses and certifications? What types of licenses and certifications are required to succeed as a heavy equipment operator? This varies from state to state. For example, some states require you to have a valid commercial driver’s license. Also, some jurisdictions can require specific certification such as ADEPT certification sponsored by the National Association of Heavy Equipment Training Services.

How much can you earn as a heavy equipment operator?

How much you make is going to vary with your skills and years of experiences, obviously. The average salary for a heavy equipment operator is $66,000.

“However, with the current demand I can see a heavy equipment operator earning $100,000 if he or she puts in a lot of hours,” Scott said.

Among heavy equipment operators, crane operators tend to be the best paid. Crane operators with senior-level experience can average more than $75,000 a year. The best paid heavy equipment operators are in New York City at an annual salary of $92,560. In fact, it is among the highest paying professions for workers without a college degree.

Wrapping up

Heavy equipment operators are in high demand, and that’s only going to increase when the nation’s infrastructure projects commence. You could make an average of $66,000/year as a heavy equipment operator.

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Everything you need to know to become a drywaller

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 12:19:00 GMT

Want to become a drywaller? You’re in luck. Everybody’s looking for drywallers.

Most drywallers left the business in the Great Recession of 2008. There just wasn’t any construction. So, they retired or got into something new. Nowadays, contractors kill to find good drywallers.

That could be you. But it will take some work.

Ready?

In this post, we will look at what a drywaller does, what training is required and how much you can expect to earn as a drywaller. When you get done with the post, you should have a good idea if drywalling is for you.

Our guide on this journey will be Traci Hill, whose business goes by the name of The Drywall Lady. She’s based in Bellville, Mich., and she’s a master at her craft—possessed of a skill that comes from doing it again and again. And again.

“The great drywallers want it perfect,” Traci said. “They’re not going to settle for subpar. I’m training my son in drywalling, and he’ll think he’s finished a section of wall and I’ll say, ‘You’re not done.’ And he’ll say, ‘Don’t worry about it, the sander will get it.’ And I said, ‘No, because if the sander doesn’t get it and the painter doesn’t take care of it then the paint’s going magnify the imperfection and the customer’s not going to be happy and you’re going to have to go back out and fix it—and that’s time you should be out doing new work.”

Traci’s was a circuitous route into being master drywaller. She left the Air Force in Guam in the 80s and she decided to stay in Guam. After her money ran out, she decided to try painting.

“After a while the foreman came up to me and said, ‘You’d make a great drywaller. You have patience and I you have an eye for perfection.’ So, I said, ‘Why not?’”

When she got back to the states, she had the good fortune to get under the tutelage of a mentor drywaller with 50 years of experience.

“It was the perfect set-up for a drywaller,” Traci said. “Drywalling takes time. You can learn how to do it from a trade school, but you don’t really know how to do it until to you done it again, and again and again.

We’re talking four or five years before you get the basics down. Then you start leaning to master it. The thing that’s hardest to learn is how much mud to put on the wall and how much to take off. And then learning how to feather all that mud. If all you see is paint on the finished wall then you know you’ve mastered it. You can’t learn it from a book. You can’t learn it from a video on YouTube.”

What is drywall?

It used to be that interior walls in residential and commercial structures were made from plaster. It was a messy, goopy process—and not everyone could do it right.

Near the turn of the 20th century, Augustine Sacket invented Sackett Board, the forerunner to modern-day drywall. It became known as drywall because of how dry the process was compared to plaster. No wet materials were needed for installation. What took weeks or months with plaster can now be accomplished in days with drywall.

Modern-day drywall is made from lightweight but sturdy gypsum that is ground up into powder and pressed between two pieces of thick paper that form a sheet or “board.”

If your house was built in the last 50 years or so, there’s a very good chance that all of the walls and ceilings are covered with drywall.

If you’re a drywaller, you can work in residential new home, new construction or remodel. Traci chose remodel because the work kept coming her way as word of mouth spread about the quality of her work.

“New homes are quick. They bring in large crews and get the job done in the fastest amount of time,” she said. “In commercial, it goes quicker because there aren’t any ceilings.

“But when you’re in remodel, things slow down. It’s very tedious. I never rush a drywaller I’m subcontracting in a remodel. I just want it perfect . The homeowners understand that, so it all works out. You don’t have a lot of board in remodel, but a whole lot of repairs. ‘There’s a hole in the wall. Fix it.’ You’ve got to be really fast, not necessarily good, to be in new homes. The builder needs the home done right away. They’ll say, ‘You have six days to finish this house.’ Then they’ll say, ‘No, you only have four days.’ I can’t do a house in four days. That’s when I left new home construction and started my own remodel drywalling company.”

What training is necessary to become a drywaller?

You start with the minimum requirement: a high school degree. Then, broadly, you have three options: a union apprenticeship, a trade school or a personal mentor.

“I tried a union apprenticeship for three months and it wasn’t for me. They put me in a Sears to start. The foreman took me to a room and said, ‘Tape this room.’ Ninety minutes later, I was done. He said, ‘You’ve got eight hours! We get paid by the hour. You get paid by the hour! Go take a nap. Go shopping. Just be back at five to clock out!’”

The thing about drywalling, is you can only learn through experience. A trade school can teach you the mechanics of it, but you’re always going to run into the unexpected.

“For example, you may have water damage and you bust the drywall and found out the two by fours have rotted so you have to learn some carpentry,” Traci said.

As far as licenses and certifications go, it depends on the state. In Michigan where Traci works, they don’t require a license. Just insurance.

How much can you earn as a drywaller?

The average hourly wage for a drywall installer in the United States is $24, but the range typically falls between $20 and $30.

“I don’t pay my subcontractors by the hour but if you did the math, I probably end up paying them $30 an hour. But if you have a drywalling company and you charge by square footage and you’re fast—and good—you can pound out two or three houses a week. There’s no reason you can’t be making six figures.”

The key to earning more money is speed—but quality can’t drop as your pace quickens.

“I make more than the typical engineer, but I’ve been doing this for 34 years. If you take the four to five years it takes to master drywalling and you learn how to get fast, you can make as much money as you want. You bid a job for $500 and you get it done in one hour, you’ve just made $500 an hour,” Traci said. “My son tells me, ‘I can’t see going to college.’ He’s been at this five years, and he’s earning $50 an hour.”

What qualities make for a good drywaller

Are you cut out to be a drywaller? Well, ask yourself, “How patient am I?” You have to be patient because it takes such a long time to learn how to do it right.

“It’s very frustrating,” Traci said. “It drives you crazy. You have to do it over and over—a gazillion times. Then suddenly, you get it. You say, ‘Yesterday, I didn’t know how to run a corner bead—but now I do! ’”

You’ve got to be dedicated to this craft, Traci says.

“It’s going to take you a minimum of four years to be really good at it,” she said. “If you’re still making the same mistakes after five years, well, it’s probably a sign you aren’t cut out to be a drywall finisher.

What separates the great drywallers from the good drywallers?

One word, says Traci.

Perfectionism.

The best drywallers are perfectionists. It calls for precision .

“If my son wasn’t my son, I wouldn’t be training him. I’m paying him to learn. He should be paying me! I have to watch him every second.

‘This is not right. Let me show you how’ and ‘This is not right. Let me show you how.’ Again and again and again. Finally, the light bulb clicks on and, wow, you know how to tape. It takes years.

“Drywall is an art. Drywall is an art. I don’t know how many times I’ve heard that, but it’s true. I just encourage people to stick with it. Be the 1 percent and become the next Picasso.”

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Everything you need to know about becoming a mason

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Everything you need to know to become a mason

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 12:29:29 GMT

Want to become a mason? Why masonry? Think opportunity. There’s a major shortage of masons nationwide.

“We’re in dire need. I’m always looking for people in their 20s who are interested in the trade—and they’re extremely rare,” said Judd Tanzini, president of The Tancor Corporation, a masonry contractor in Midland, Michigan. “I understand. It’s hot, heavy, and dirty. It’s not glamourous. But if young people can get into it, they’ll learn it’s rewarding—both monetarily and career-wise.”

In this post, we will look at what a mason does, what training is necessary to become a mason, what you can expect to earn as a mason, and what you need to do to stand out from all the other masons. After reading this post, you’ll have a better idea whether masonry is something you want to pursue.

What does a mason do?

A mason uses bricks, concrete blocks, or natural stones to build structures such as walls, walkways, fences, and chimneys. Depending on the building material they specialize in, these workers might be called brick masons, block masons, or stonemasons. Brick masons are sometimes referred to as bricklayers.

Masons can work inside or outside, but if working outside, they usually stop for rain. Rain makes the brick and mortar too sloppy to do quality work.

“There is a lot about masonry that hasn’t changed in hundreds of years,” said Kevin Kroll, masonry instructor at Milwaukee Technical College. “Sure, there’s been a lot of improvements. The brick and block are different than they were years ago—better. The mortars and the colors of mortar have changed. The anchoring systems have evolved, often to become more green. But there’s a lot about what a mason does today that remains the same as it was hundreds of years ago.”

The biggest constant is the sense of satisfaction you get from being a mason, he said. The reward.

“I can drive around southwestern Wisconsin within two hours of my home, and I can point to building after building that I helped build. My kids say, ‘Yeah, Dad, we know. Every time we drive past that building, you say you built it!’” said Kevin. “I can’t help myself. I love masonry! When the college takes summer break off, I’m out in the field working as a bricklayer. I like the extra money, and staying current in the trade is very valuable for my students. I can see the new products and trends.”

What training is required to become a mason?

Most masons complete an apprenticeship, which can take between three and four years to complete. Much shorter programs in basic masonry can be found at some technical schools. On-the-job training is also an option.

Over at Ivy Tech Community College in Indiana, their masonry program is connected with the local bricklayers union—and not everyone who wants in gets in.

“Before they’re accepted into the program, we have them go through a pre-job class,” said Roger Jones, managing director of Ivy Tech’s BAC 4 IN/KY Apprenticeship Program. “We bring them into one of our different training centers and give them an orientation to the trade, and then we give them a math and measurement test. Then we take them to the shop and show them how to spread mortar and put joints on. Then they go before the Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee and show how well they can handle a trowel, their dexterity. Then they go through an interview process.”

In Roger’s program, Quentin Marvin started out at 50 percent of a journeyman’s pay and then moved up in 5 percent increments every six months until he was a journeyman in five years. He’s glad he chose the union route.

“I definitely didn’t want to go with a company where I’m trying to be a bricklayer and they say, ‘Well, you’ll have to be a laborer first,’ and you may never move out of that role. With the union apprenticeship, I start doing what I want to be doing and I learn as I go.”

At Milwaukee Area Technical College, the program is only 16 weeks long.

“We give kids the basic skills to lay brick and block and go out and get a job,” Kevin said, estimating that about half of his graduates go on to get a union apprenticeship. “There’s a lot we don’t cover. Blueprints, for example. But we give the kids enough to get a job, and most of them land a job right away.”

Kevin said many of his students come into his 16-week program with no masonry experience. In fact, a lot of them come to his program simply because the college’s carpentry program is full. Once they see what the work’s about and they see the wage, they’re all in.

“Masons get paid good money, but we work hard,” Kevin said. “Lifting heavy blocks all day is not an easy thing to do. It can get really hot and cold outdoors. So physically demanding and monetarily rewarding.”

How much do masons earn?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for an American mason is $47,000—but you can go quite a bit higher than that if you’re willing to put in the hard work.

“My students are making close to $60,000 after a few years,” Kevin said. “If you’re working with a contractor who has you working inside so you don’t have any rain days, you could make $90,000, and they’re not foremen. Just steady everyday workers with a little bit of overtime.”

Andrew Cross went through Kevin’s program at Milwaukee Area Technical College in 2014.

“I almost quit the second week. I thought, ‘This was very hard!’ We had to flip mortar all day long to get the experience. My hands was hurting. Eventually, though, I got the hang of it.”

Andrew went into masonry with no experience but a sense of urgency. He and his partner had a second child, and they needed more money. “I was working two jobs, one for $9 an hour and one for $15 an hour.” He first worked for a contractor, starting at $20 an hour and eventually moving up to $27 an hour after several years. Then he saw he could make more money on his own, so he formed 321 Brick, Block & Stone LLC. Since then, his earnings have increased dramatically.

“I made $44,000 in less than six months,” he said.

What separates the great masons from the good masons?

Said Judd: “First there are the workers. They just have to earn their keep. Then there’s the tradesman. Then in masonry, there’s a level above that: craftsman. You can work with multiple materials. You can do high-quality work at a high rate of production. Then, above the craftsman, you have the artist. They can do things that other masons can’t do no matter how hard they try.”

Said Kevin: “A great mason not only has the good-quality, straight work but also the speed. That’s a huge thing in bricklaying. You can never go fast enough for your contractor, because the faster you go the more money they make. But it’s got to be good work!”

Said Roger: “I’ll tell you what: Training is number one. Take pride in your work. A great bricklayer is the one who is a perfectionist.”

Said Andrew: “It’s the time you put into it. When people rush, you can tell because the quality goes down. That’s why I prefer to work residential. With commercial, it’s all about working as fast as you can.”

Said Quentin with Weigand Construction, “You definitely have to take pride in your work. Lot of times if you’re a carpenter, your work gets covered up, unless you’re a finish carpenter. That’s the great thing about this trade: Everyone can appreciate your work. No one walks into a building and says, “Hey, check out that nice ductwork!” But people appreciate brick structures.”

“There’s lot of muscle work to it, yes. But there’s a lot of technical smarts to it too,” said Dave Monroe, mason with Tancor Corporation. “They’ve got to be able to read and follow architectural and structural blueprints. You’re building out the foundation for everybody to follow. The masonry is the skeleton—so it all falls back on the mason. If the window sizes are wrong, the door sizes are off; it compounds. Everybody else on the site has to deal with the poor foundation. The best masons are the ones who want to be better than all the rest. The competitive spirit.”

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Everything you need to know to become a painter

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 12:34:19 GMT

It’s a great time to get involved in painting because there is a shortage of quality painters. So many people left the painting industry during the Great Recession of 2008—and then they never came back. Meanwhile, high school guidance counselors were pushing college as the best choice for students.

Dan Brady, founder of Dan Brady Painting in Traverse City, Mich., says that “pretty much I’m always in hiring mode.”

“I’m lucky, I’ve got a good core of great guys,” he said. “I try to pay them fairly and treat them well.”

It’s pretty simple to become a painter. Just start painting. Most painters are self-taught, non-union and never went through an apprenticeship program.

In this post, we will look at what one has to do to become a residential and/or commercial painter and set themselves apart from the competition. When you’re through with the post, you’ll have a better idea if painting’s the right route for you.

What training is necessary to become a painter?

Most professional painters are self-taught. Dan started painting as a junior high summer job. In high school, he painted with a master painter who took him under his wing. Eventually, Dan rented this guy’s equipment and painted through high school. Then he put himself through getting a degree in Finance from Central Michigan University with painting. After five years in the Rat Race, he went back home to Traverse City to figure out his next move.

“I thought, ‘I’ll just paint until I decide what to do’—and now, 20 years later I’m still painting,” he said.

States differ on what kind of license is required to paint. For example, in Arizona, a house painter or contractor must have two years of verified work experience. Pay stubs are a good way to prove work experience. Texas does not have a licensing requirement but does require painters to carry liability insurance.

Some states have written licensing exams and may require painters to be bonded.

Michigan requires no license and no formal training. Dan’s extended his skills through his membership with the Painting Contractor Association and with several mentors. But on his own, Dan has created a training program for his employees.

“The state of Michigan had a program where they would provide funds to build a training program. So we created one, and now a new hire with my company goes through scaffolding, CPR, lead abatement—just about everything you need to know.”

The EPA’s Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule requires that renovations of child-occupied facilities such as schools, childcare facilities and hospitals be carried out only by Lead-Safe Certified renovation firms, using certified renovators trained in lead-safe work practices. This is to ensure that these renovations do not inadvertently contaminate your facility and expose children to hazardous lead dust.

How much do painters earn?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the median wages for painters at $40,000. Newly hired painters with no experience typically make $11 to $15 per hour. This relatively low wage can be discouraging to some, especially given the physical demands of the job — climbing ladders, lifting, working overhead, kneeling, bending and reaching.

If you want to want to go beyond $40,000 a year, you have two options: hire more painters and/or branch into other coatings than paint. Dan does a thriving business in wood restoration for the many vacation home decks in Traverse City.

Should you go commercial or residential?

It really depends on your market. The skills are pretty much the same. The main difference is more color options in residential.

In Dan’s case, he’s mostly residential because Traverse City is more of a vacation destination than a commercial hub. He focuses on repaint, in particular. Other painters focus on new paint.

Materials such as paintbrushes, rollers, painting trays, step ladders, drop cloths, and cleaning materials are typical of what a residential painter will use on the job.

Meanwhile, commercial painters work with different surfaces—concrete, marble, metal, reinforced plastic, and a lot more. So the equipment they must use differs from residential painters: pressure washers, sandblasters, paint sprayers, scaffolding, and aerial lifts. They also need expertise in using commercial and industrial-grade paints, primers, tints, and other specialty coatings.

What common mistakes do new painters make?

Jason Paris, chairman of the Painting Contractors Association, said, “If you are just getting started, I would recommend getting connected with other painters so that you do not have to operate on an island. There is so much opportunity in this industry, and many of us start stranded on our own not really knowing what is real and what is not.”

Beyond that, “I think one of the most common mistakes new painters make is not having the confidence to charge appropriately for their services,” Jason added.

“For rates, there are two main tactics most painters use: Experience Estimating and Metric-Based Bidding. Experience Estimating is where the painter uses their experience and knowledge to estimate how much time a project will take. They may say ‘Well I’ve done a house like this, and I think it will take three painters three days.’ Metric-based bidding is where you use production rates to measure out the linear footage, square footage, or item count of each project section to come to a final price.”

What separates the great painters from the good painters?

“The great painters are the ones who can keep quality high at a fast pace,” Dan said. “You ask two people who are just average painters to paint the side of a house and it takes them two days. Two great painters can do it in two hours—and do a better job.”

Jason of the Painting Contractors Association said “a commitment to education” sets apart painters.

“The market is constantly changing, and those who want to get or stay great must be continually investing in keeping up with new variables,” he said.

Wrapping up

So, you want to be a painter? Nothing but good news! First off, painters are in high demand. Two, there’s no formal training required, and the start-up equipment costs are low. Three, the ceiling is high for income potential. Want to learn more? Head over to the Painting Contractors Association and learn more.

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Everything you need to know about becoming a mason

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Our new Milwaukee branch

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 12:37:38 GMT

Great Lakes Skilled Trades has announced the opening on its second office, just outside Milwaukee County in the northwest suburbs.

“Our Milwaukee branch will have the same competitive differentiation that has made our first branch a success in Grand Rapids: We are a local company that provides white-glove service,” said Dustin Ide, vice president and general manager with Great Lakes Skilled Trades. “For example, without fail on a worker’s first day at a job site we personally walk out the worker, check in with the contractor at mid-day and check in with the worker at the end of the day. We’re serious about keeping our promises to customers and workers.”

At the helm of the new branch is Business Manager Bob Kolega, who brings 20 years of skilled trades experience to the job, featuring a long stretch as a district manager for Tradesman International based out of Milwaukee.

“We’re itching to get started,” said Bob. “Job One will be to connect with all my construction contracts in the greater Milwaukee area. It’s the quality of these relationships that will determine our ongoing success.”

Joining Bob at the branch is Scott Gifford, who takes over as recruiter. Scott comes from a 33-year career in the printing industry.

Stop by the new branch at W177N9856 Rivercrest Drive, Suite 236, Germantown, WI 53022, and let’s see if can help your grow your business through the strategic application of contingent labor.

Everything you need to know to become an HVAC tech

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 12:57:45 GMT

Maybe you should become a HVAC tech.

After all, they’re in high demand—according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, HVAC technician employment is expected to rise by 15 percent through 2026, much higher than the average occupation—particularly now that we’re coming out of the pandemic and everybody is so concerned with the purity of the air we breathe.

Interested? Read on.

In this post, we’ll look at what it takes to become an HVAC tech, what training is involved, and how much an HVAC tech earns. When you finish the article, you’ll have a good idea if this is something you want to pursue.

What does an HVAC tech do?

HVAC technicians install and repair HVACR systems, which stands for Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration. The HVACR system provides heating and cooling to residential and commercial buildings, along with refrigeration for preserving food and refrigeration and heating needed in production applications. You can find HVACR systems anywhere from single-family homes and commercial applications to submarines—anywhere people want comfortable surroundings.

Some of the specific responsibilities of an HVAC technician include:

Use various tools—such as metal cutters, current meters, and flow sensors—to repair HVACR systems.
Ensure that all components of the system (motors, pumps, fans, compressors, switches, thermostats, etc.) are working properly.
Connect wires.
Test electrical circuits.
Weld pipes.
Test tubing and pipes for leaks.

Pretty much, HVAC techs will dip their toes into other trades on a day-to-day basis. “That’s what I liked about it,” said Brian Moore, HVACR and building automation instructor and HVAC department director at Madison College in Madison, Wisconsin. “I know a little bit about the things the other tradespeople have to be experts at. For example, we basically have to learn about fluid flow through piping; the basics of plumbing; the proper way to put PVC, iron, or copper piping together using welding, brazing and soldering methods.

“In terms of electrical, we can’t bring power from the power pole to the breaker panel, but we have to fully understand electrical circuits and how to bring power from the breaker panel to our devices, how conduit is bent, and how to move these wiring systems—point A to point B. We’re always troubleshooting electrical circuits.

“In terms of mechanical, we repair and put together mechanical systems all the time—for example, hanging air handlers from trusses, installing boiler and refrigeration systems with multiple independent pieces of equipment all working together.”

There are many different aspects of HVACR that technicians can specialize in. “For example, there’s a tin guy who specializes in building ductwork. Fabricating tin,” Brian said. “There’s pipe fitters, welding pipe together, making piping systems. Troubleshooters. Installers.

Maintenance people. HVAC control technicians.”

Some technicians become much more specialized in the types of work they take on as their careers progress. For instance, an HVAC installer may work for contractors who build new homes or buildings and therefore specializes only in installations of new systems rather than repairs. Some HVACR techs also go on to specialize in air conditioning or refrigeration, steering away from heating and ventilation.

“Some of the best advice I got was never stop learning,” Brian said. “In this industry, we cannot be stagnant. So any time your employer says, ‘We’d like to send you to ice machine class or boiler class,’ go to it. Learn how to fix ’em. The more you know, the more you’re worth in this industry.”

What training is required to become an HVAC tech?

Most people interested in a career as an HVAC technician begin by taking courses at a technical school or community college. Shorter programs may last only six months and result in an HVAC technician certificate, while longer programs can last up to two years and result in an associate degree. People can also go through a four- to five-year union or nonunion apprenticeship program that will combine work in the field with classroom study.

That was Brian’s path, earning an associate degree at Chippawa Valley Technical College. Then, after he was hired by North American Mechanical (now Comfort Systems), he started an apprenticeship sponsored by the employer. He never finished the apprenticeship because of professional growth and work demands, and after 9/11, he went on active duty with the National Guard. When he returned to civilian life, it wasn’t too long before he started instructing.

At Milwaukee Area Technical College , where Instructional Chair Deb Richards has been an instructor for the past 23 years, they offer two programs: a diploma program and a two-year associate degree. Demand is so high for people with the right skills, she said, that industry partners come to pluck her students from, say, the associate program after only one year. She tries to get them to see that’s shortsighted.

“Knowledge is king,” said Deb, a journeyman steamfitter of 35 years. “Do you want a person with limited book knowledge doing brain surgery on you, or do you want the person who’s gone through all the practical training and hands-on and residencies? HVACR is the heart of a building. If you don’t understand that heart, you’re going to make a mistake.”

How much do HVAC techs earn?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary of an HVAC tech is $45,910. After three years as an HVAC tech, Brett Viers of Quality Heating and Cooling in Livonia, Michigan, earns upward of $60,000, and he has his eyes on a higher ceiling than that. That’s why he’ll be going out on his own soon with his own company, MI Choice Heating and Cooling LLC.

“I work 9 to 5 for Quality during the day and then after 5 until I drop and on weekends for myself. I was real upfront when I started with Quality what my plan was. They’d like me to stay, but in five years, I want to be the guy behind the desk telling his crews where to go,” he said. “We want it so my wife doesn’t have to work outside the home and can take care of our kid. “

Deb from Milwaukee Area Technical College said, “One of our diploma-level students can start out making $35,000 to $40,000. If they go through the two-year associate program, they’re starting at $45,000 to $65,000.” From there, she said, the more experience you get and the more you learn: “The sky’s the limit.”

“If you get competent in refrigeration, for example, you’re talking $75,000 to $100,000 easy,” she said as an example.

What separates the great HVAC techs from the good HVAC techs?

“The best HVAC techs don’t rush,” said Brett. “Too many guys are quick to pull the trigger. They hear something and they assume they know what the problem is. Just take the extra three minutes to take out your meter. You can be wrong, but your meter is never wrong. In the end, you solve the problem more quickly. The customer’s like, ‘You were here only 10 minutes and you figured it out! You’re the fourth guy who has looked at it!’”

Here’s how Deb summed it up:

“Reliable. Responsive. Able to work independently. Being able to take your base knowledge and troubleshoot. See a problem, conquer the problem. I need a person who can be at the job site on time and have good customer service skills—because if the customer has called for service, they’re already upset. They need their problem resolved. If a person is a hothead or doesn’t relate well to people, that’s going to be a problem. So honesty, integrity, self-motivation. Someone who wants to learn something every day. The trade is changing at such a rapid rate, so constant learning is

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Everything you need to know to become a roofer

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 13:16:38 GMT

Why not become a roofer?

It’s the life, says John Steffes. Out under the sky. Fresh air. Hard work. Camaraderie.

“I love roofing!” says John, field superintendent with Great Lakes Systems , which has been serving the greater Grand Rapids area for four decades. He supervises five roofing crews every day, always making sure to pitch in, even at 53 years of age, screwing down membrane or whatever needs doing. “When I started, I was young, fresh from two combat tours with the 82nd Airborne Division. To me, it was the perfect job. I could not be inside in a factory. I tried, I really did, right after the service. Two weeks. That’s all I could take. You can’t see the sky. In a factory, you’re pretty much 8 to 4 or whatever, running the same part day in and day out. No thanks. I’m not a robot. The thing about roofs is every roof has its own problem. Every day’s a new challenge.”

In this post, we’ll look at how you can become a roofer—what training is required and what you can expect to earn. We’ll also provide a few tips on how to stand out as a roofer.

What do roofers do?

Roofers work on new installations as well as renovations and roof repair projects in both residential and commercial settings. As expected from the job title, roofers usually need to climb onto rooftops to work. So this might not be the job for you if you have a thing about heights!

You will be working on roofs made from many different materials, including asphalt, metal, and rubber, and, on “green roofs,” plant matter—in any weather. Some roofs may be flat, and others will be pitched.

Whatever the roof is made of, the process is pretty similar. Screw down the insulation. Then lay the membrane and bond or screw it in. From there, you put on whatever roofing material you’re working with—emphasizing speed and excellence.

Roofers monitor the entire process of roofing in residential as well as commercial construction. They analyze the construction plans and make sure that the roofing is done in strict accordance with the design. Roofers also determine the materials, substrates, and supportive accessories to be used for roof installations. Even the specifications of the beams, trusses, and rafters upon which roofs are installed are decided by roofers.

What do roofers earn?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, roofers make an average $22.03 per hour, or $45,820 per year. During winter, the workweeks might be only 28 to 35 hours long, but in the summertime, roofers can pretty much put in as much overtime as they want. The faster the job gets done, the more money the roofing company makes—so the top end is a lot higher than $45,820.

And a smart roofer is always looking to take the next step up.

“After being a roofer, you want to be a mechanic. That’s just the phrase we use, mechanic. It’s a person who’s an all-around guy, can do everything needed on the roof, even welding. There’s nothing he can’t do, and if the foreman is sick or on vacation, they can take over as foreman. From there, you go to foreman and, eventually, super. I tell my guys, ‘Learn the job in front of you. You might be laying down board and screwing it in for months at a time, and then all of a sudden, someone gives you a chance to do some detail work. Man, you’re all over it.’”

What kind of training is required to become a roofer?

There are no educational requirements for roofers, and most training is done on the job. Apprenticeships are available from unions, contractor associations, and similar.

That’s pretty much how it worked for John. When he was in high school, he did grunt work for his uncle, who owned a small roofing company—tearing off the old roofing and throwing it in a dumpster. He would work at night so that the structure was ready for the roofers in the morning.

“It was slave labor basically,” he laughs. “I didn’t mind. Right away, I kind of liked the work.”

When he got out of the service in 1992, and after he had learned factory work wasn’t for him, as noted above, he jumped at the chance when a buddy with a roofing company told him they needed some people.

Now, thousands of roofs later, he wouldn’t change a thing.

“To be honest, I didn’t have any career goals at first. I just knew I had a daughter to take care of and I needed to put food on the table. I didn’t know how long I’d be doing this.”

“Once you get good at something and your roofs start winning awards, then you’ll start moving up the ladder.”

Throughout his roofing career, John’s taken advantage of the training his employer has provided in their shop. “I’m always game for learning something new,” he says. “Also, I figured it was a great way to send a message to the company that I was one of their top employees.”

Is roofing dangerous?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists roofer as the fourth most dangerous profession in America, behind loggers, fishermen, and pilots. The safety hazards are falling from the roof and burns and electrocution from overhead power lines. Many staffing firms, like Great Lakes Skilled Trades, will send out workers on flat roofs only.

John says Great Lakes Systems mitigates the danger by having a nonnegotiable commitment to safety. You’re not just improvising up there. Everything by the numbers.

“We have warning lines on every roof. That’s the first step: Put up the warning lines 12 feet in. None of the new roofers are allowed outside that line at any time—period. The more experienced roofers, they can go outside the lines if they’re tied off or have a spotter.”

What separates the great roofers from the good roofers?

“Motivation,” John says. “Someone who wants to do better than the next guy. Great Lakes Systems isn’t my company, but if you’re on one of my crews, I treat it that way. I want the customer to know that they are the most important person in the universe right at that moment. Their satisfaction is all-important.”

John insists every job gets done his way—just like they were trained.

“Roofing used to be a young person’s job—but not the way people are now. Back in the beginning, we’d hire kids, and they’d go like the dickens,” he says. “Nowadays, young people don’t seem interested. I admit it, it’s a hard job—out in the elements, toting heavy rolls of insulation and membrane—but once it gets in your blood, you’ll never want to leave.”

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Everything you need to know about becoming a carpenter

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 13:45:19 GMT

Now is a great time to become a carpenter.

Carpenters are in high demand, and there’s a shortage of good ones. During the housing bust in 2008, many carpenters left the profession and pursued other employment. Meanwhile, starting in the ’70s, high school guidance counselors began stressing the importance of a college degree to students. The trades were ignored. Now there are many carpenters entering retirement.

Bottom line, it’s a golden opportunity for someone who wants to become a carpenter. You’ll have no problem finding work.

Read : Why the skilled trades might make a good fit for you.

In this post, we look at what it takes to become a carpenter and succeed in the profession, what the job consists of, what training is needed, and how much you can expect to earn. When you’re done with this post, you’ll have a great idea if carpentry is a good option for you.

What does a carpenter do?

Broadly, carpenters work with wood-based materials in the construction of homes and commercial property. In a given day, you may be asked to:

Follow blueprints and building plans
Install structures and fixtures, such as windows and molding
Measure, cut, and shape wood, plastic, and other materials
Construct building frameworks, including walls, floors, and door frames
Erect, level, and install building framework with the aid of rigging hardware and cranes
Inspect and replace damaged framework or other structures and fixtures
Instruct and direct laborers and other construction helpers.

Many people got into carpentry because they learned it as a child. For example, Les Katt, president of Katt Design and Carpentry in Grand Rapids, used to help his grandfather, an “ornery old Dutchman,” at his contracting business. “He had a garage behind his house. It was full of all sorts of wood. I loved getting in there and hammering things together.”

Here’s a good breakdown of the main types of carpentry:

Framer —A framer swings a hammer to construct the “skeleton” of the structure. Framers build walls out of studs, sills, and headers; build floors from joists and beams; and frame roofs using ridge poles and rafters.

Framers tend to be on the younger side, usually just getting started in carpentry, people who don’t mind as much when they have to work no matter the weather.

Speed is crucial for framers, says Stephen Redmon, owner of Fine Carpentry and Cabinets in Grand Rapids .

“There’s not much detail work involved. I mean, they have to have the right amount of fasteners in place and select the right board. But you have to get it done as soon as you can. It moves the whole project along because time is money.”

Finish carpenter —This specialty tends to attract men and women who are detailed-oriented, even artistic. A good finish carpenter needs to be a good problem solver, says Les. “You have to have a clear idea of the end result you’re going for. Houses aren’t always straight, so it’s often like solving a puzzle.”

“I like trim the best. I like the intricacy, the craftsmanship of it. When I got out of high school, I first went to graphic design school before getting into construction, but I couldn’t stand the office dynamics. However, I would still classify myself as an artist, I guess. I like working with the customer to take their idea for the kitchen and make it a reality.”

Cabinet maker —Cabinet makers bring an architect’s blueprints for a kitchen to life through woodwork, cabinetry furniture, and décor. Like finish carpenters, cabinet makers tend to be detail-oriented and will follow their creativity. “A good trim carpenter can make a good cabinet maker and vice versa,” Les says.

Someone with an artistic bent makes for a good cabinet maker, says Stephen, who is also a cellist. “The framer might be concerned with 1/8 of an inch. A finish carpenter is concerned with 1/16 of an inch. As a cabinet maker, I’m concerned with 1/32 and 1/64 of an inch. Cabinets have to be just right. Wood moves, and you have to always account for the species of wood and the direction it’s going to move.”

Deck builder —Their responsibilities include procuring the lumber for your project, using tools to complete the build, and measuring and cutting materials to build a sturdy deck. “I always enjoyed deck building,” Les says. “You get to be outside. It’s more precision than framing, and as a bonus, everybody gets to see your end product.”

What’s a typical day like in the life of a carpenter? Depends on whom you ask, probably. For example, Les says that when he started his business in 1986, he focused on just one customer/project at a time.

“As I got better equipment and got faster, I changed that,” he says. “Now I usually have something being installed, some in production, some in design, and then the people waiting in line. So a lot of balls in the air.”

How much do carpenters earn?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for U.S. carpenters is $48,000. Overtime is often required to meet deadlines, so the “top end” can be much higher.

“When I started in 1986, I had a Ranger pickup truck and a skill saw and a framing square and a hammer, and I was in business. I didn’t need much. I just hired a young carpenter, 28 years old. I’m paying him $23 an hour.”

Stephen says you can increase your earning potential as a carpenter by getting a builder’s license and starting your own company—but it’s important to realize that it takes more than woodworking skills to succeed as a business owner.

“If you’re a carpenter, you can just work for a builder and you don’t interact much with the customer. I have a big customer base, and all my marketing is word of mouth. I don’t do any advertising. So interpersonal skills are crucial. The growth of your business depends on how you treat customers.”

Les agrees, adding, “I’m an introvert. It’s only now at 63 that I’m comfortable selling. When people want to buy carpentry, they’re buying into you as the carpenter. You’ve got to look at the customer’s kitchen and give them your story, tell them why you’re excited about doing the job. That’s what I’ve found is the best way to sell.”

What training is necessary to become a carpenter?

Roughly speaking, you have two options: One, you can attend a two-year technical school, which comes out of your pocket. Or, two, you can get a four- to five-year apprenticeship, which the union or contractor will pay for. An apprenticeship is a “learn as you learn” arrangement—in that along with working on construction sites during the day, two nights a week you go to class.

“If it was me, I’d go with the apprenticeship,” says Les. “A lot of times, the people teaching at the technical colleges have less training than the normal guy who’s been working as a carpenter for a year. When my son went to technical school, he had to teach the teacher! There’s no substitute for experience. Your first week on the job, you’ll learn more than you’ll learn in four years of college.”

Stephen agrees, saying, “Carpentry is done with your hands. You can‘t learn it from a book. Well, that’s a start, I guess. But there’s no substitute for a good apprenticeship program.”

What separates great carpenters from good carpenters?

“I think it comes down to vision and patience,” says Stephen. “You try to work as fast as you can, obviously, but you have to think, ‘Am I making something that the customer can appreciate for a lifetime?’ You need to take the extra time to look at the design and see if you can improve it or if there is something artistic you can do, something unique you can do. Anyone can just throw a box together.

“You need to be able to project in your mind what the project is going to look like in its finished form. You need to be cognizant of how your wood choices work together, the direction of the grain, what it’s going to look like with a finish on it, a stain.”

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Everything you need to know about becoming a welder

Fri, 21 May 2021 13:56:19 GMT

So you’re wondering, “How do I became a welder?” That’s a simple question with a complex answer.

Welders are skilled tradespeople who use intense heat to join metal together or repair metal structures or components. To do that, they use one of many different welding methods, the most common being arc welding, where welders use a special welding rod or wire and join two metal pieces with an arc of electrical current. Then there’s oxy-fuel welding, which uses a flammable gas and oxygen to produce the heat needed to melt and join the metal pieces together. Hold on. There’s more. Resistance welding, shielded metal arc welding, submerged arc welding, and the more modern laser beam welding processes. Most welders use hand-held equipment, but some use remotely controlled devices.

Yikes. Sorry you asked?

Don’t despair. By reading this post, you’ll go a long way toward understanding what it takes to become a welder. We’ll look at exactly what a welder does, how much he/she earns and what training is necessary to become a welder.

Ready? Let’s go.

What do welders do?

As said earlier, welders work on the metal components of various structures such pipelines, bridges, power plants, buildings, refineries, automobiles, or ships, joining metal together to make a product.

Welders primarily work outdoors in the elements—or, sometimes, under water, if they have the right training and gear.

Exactly what a welder will do on a regular basis depends on the industry they are working in—or what level of experience they have.

Typically, a welder’s day will start with reviewing blueprints and other instructions to determine what welding methods or sequences are required for the job. A welder then may lay out the metal parts and align them properly for assembly. From there, one or more of the following activities could make up the welder’s day:

Joining metal parts in flat, vertical, or overhead positions
Calculating dimensions of metal parts to be welded
Laying out, positioning, aligning, and securing metal parts
Inspecting workpieces for defects and checking for specifications
Igniting welding torches and striking arcs
Selecting welding methods and required equipment
Cleaning welded metal off excess weld, slag, or spatter
Filling holes or hammering out bulges and bends
Maintaining equipment and machinery

How much do welders earn?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median salary for a welder is $44,000 across the country. But that figure’s deceptive, says Jason Becker, a welder from Kissimmee, Fla., who hosts The Arc Junkies podcast .

“Obviously the type of work you get into will have a lot to do with the salary,” he said. “Field welders and those who travel will make significantly more whereas a shop welder or someone with base level skills won’t do as well. There are welders leaving some schools making 100K their first year but they’ll be putting in some overtime for sure. That’s not the standard by any means but it does show what is possible.”

Bottom line, don’t expect to get rich as an entry-level welder—but a wealth of opportunities await you . Welding skills are highly transferable, so a welder can move from one area or one employer to another in pursuit of a better salary or a more suitable place of employment.

Welding has provided a comfortable living for David Sinquefield, who owns MPD Welding in Grand Rapids. Much of MPD’s work is welding molds for plastic automotive parts. He owns his own home and usually once a year, he takes a month off to visit the Caribbean—although this year he couldn’t fly there because of Covid restrictions. (Also, GM was keeping them busy welding respirators!)

“I’ve never collected an unemployment check in my life,” he said. “Our welders are making over $38 an hour, out top guys—with complete, full benefits.”

What training is required to become a welder?

Unlike trades such as electrician, welders are not required to gain a certification to practice their craft for the most part. Nor are they required to go through a four- to five-year apprenticeship. All that’s required to be a welder is the skill—which requires a lot of practice and some sort of training. Most aspiring welders attend technical school or community college programs. Welding training ranges between seven months and two years of hands-on instruction.

Some welders start out as laborers, and the on-the-job training they earn allows them to advance in the field without ever attending a welding training program at a vocational or trade school. That said, employers usually want someone with training, because even welders with formal training still often have to receive several additional months of on-the-job training, depending on their employer. Some employers will require a certification.

Brown Dog Welding in Detroit offers welding workshops for beginner to experienced welders. The 3- to 4-hour workshops allow people to actually weld an item they can take home.

Brown Dog provides all welding materials and equipment and personal protective equipment. Attendees will leave the worship with an item they actually welded and a Miller Welding Gas Tungsten Arc Guide

David’s been welding since he was in the Army in 1969. “I was a mechanic, but where I worked was right next to the welding shop, so I gave it a try. I knew it was what I wanted to do with my life. After the service, I drove truck for a welding shop owned by a friend of my father-in-law. Within about a year, I was running one of the shifts—with no formal training.”

It’s worth noting that many prospective welders come to the craft having welded as a kid, in high school shop class or on dad’s farm, so they enter their professional education with a running start.

For this part, Jason took welding classes in high school but his education began in earnest when he joined the Marine Corps. The Marines put him through a 6-month, 40-hour-a-week training program.

Is welding dangerous?

There are plenty of hazards to be aware of when it comes to welding. The risk of electrocution, fire and explosion, burns, electric shock, vision damage, to name a few. Dangers abound. For example, the plume of smoke that rises from the spot of welding or cutting is a mixture of diverse metal fumes and gases. Prolonged exposure has been associated with different types of cancers and other serious health effects.

But if you’re trained properly and you’re using all the correct gear, welding is no more dangerous than any other profession, said Jason.

What separates great welders from good welders

“Simple,” Jason says. “Passion.” If the topic of conversation never veered from welding, he’d be quite happy. “I love everything about it!”

“For some people, it’s just a job,” he said. “But for the Arc Junkies, they can’t get enough of it. You can always diver deeper, explore more, learn more. The more I learn about welding, the more I realize I don’t know anything about welding.”

David agrees about passion, adding, “A guy who doesn’t give a crap, he’s not going to put out great work—and he’s not going to last long in a welding shop.”

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Everything you need to know about becoming a plumber

Tue, 11 May 2021 14:04:37 GMT

In America, it’s a given that any structure you’re in—certainly your domicile—will have “hot and cold running water.”

Hence the necessity of plumbers, the ones who install all those pipes, fixtures, and appliances in homes, commercial buildings, and factories.

That means a plumber needs to know how to interpret blueprints, determining the materials and processes needed at a jobsite. And when something goes wrong, they’re the ones called on to troubleshoot the problem and fix it.

It’s a physical job, crawling into tight spaces—or climbing to high places—and wrenching things into place.

Cerebral too, as you’ll need a grasp of basic algebra. For example, every plumber knows The 45-Degree Formula for connecting two pieces of pipe. To wit: Take the center measurement between the two pipes and multiply it by the constant 1.414. The length of the two fittings is then subtracted from the original answer. Yeah, if you didn’t pay attention in your high school math classes, you’re probably going to need a refresher before you start your journey to becoming a plumber!

But if you can make it through all the training and pass your licensing exams, you’ll be part of a stable and well-paid profession.

Ask Derrick Brown. He is founder/owner at Kent County Plumbing in the greater Grand Rapids area. He started his journey to becoming a plumber in 2003 in Illinois. In 2019, he formed Kent County Plumbing, and he’s been “on a roll” in the waning months of the pandemic. He owns his own home, and he and his wife plan to take their three kids to Disneyland this year. He plans to hire his first employee this year too.

“I love being a plumber. I’m proud to be a plumber,” Derrick says. “If you’re good with your hands—and people—and have high standards and a willingness to learn, you’d be a good fit.”

Intrigued?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the plumbing industry will grow by 12% over the next 10 years, far in excess of the average for all occupations. Meanwhile, more and more plumbers will retire over the next decade. Some employers have already complained that they can’t find enough qualified plumbers.

In this post, we will look at what it takes to become a plumber and how much you can expect to earn. When you finish the post, you’ll have a better idea if it’s the career path you want to go down.

How much can you earn as a plumber?

The average hourly rate for plumbers across the entire United States is $25. That pencils out to a salary of around $50,000 a year, much higher than the national median income for all occupations, $36,200. Of course, the average plumber’s salary varies from region to region and depends on years of experience, but plumbers in certain metropolitan areas can earn over $80,000 every year.

Many commercial construction plumbers work a standard Monday-through-Friday schedule and enjoy weekends off. If you’re on the residential side, you’ll do more after-hours emergency calls, burst pipes, and such. Plumbers who own their business can choose the hours they work and enjoy being their own boss.

What kind of training do you need to become a plumber?

You’ll need a high school diploma or GED. With that in hand, you can receive training at a trade school or community college. Then you must complete an apprentice program, which can last four to five years.

An apprenticeship is an “earn while you learn situation” where you work at a jobsite during the days and head into a classroom for three to four hours of training one or two nights a week.

For his part, Derrick attended Illinois State University and earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration, but that was mainly “just to have the college experience.” He pretty much always knew he’d get into plumbing. That’s what happens your father and grandfather were both plumbers.

“When I was 8 years old, my dad would take me to work with him in the summers,” Derrick says. “It was more fun than anything, but at 15 I started working every day after school.”

The beauty of a plumbing career is that it doesn’t require you to amass a load of student debt. The average student loan debt owed per borrower is over $37,000. That’s $1.5 trillion in college debt across America. College debt outpaces all other kinds of debt in America, except for mortgages.

What does a plumber do?

Plumbers install and repair pipes that supply water and gas to—and carry waste away from—homes and businesses. They install plumbing fixtures—bathtubs, sinks, toilets, and such—as well as appliances, such as dishwashers and water heaters. They can be called on to cut holes in floors, ceilings, and walls and may need to hang steel supports from ceiling joists to hold pipes in place, which usually requires fitting, measuring, and cutting pipes to fit using pipe cutters and saws. Working with copper pipes may require soldering.

On any given day, a plumber could expect to . . .

Install pipes and plumbing fixtures.
Visually inspect equipment and operate test equipment—things like pressure and vacuum gauges—to determine the cause and location of trouble.
Fix the clog! Clear obstructions from sink drains and toilets.
Troubleshoot problems and decide how to fix them.
Repair pipes and plumbing fixtures.
Make cost estimates for installations and repairs.
Present recommendations and related pricing to customers

One way to get started

A good entrée to a career as a plumber may be to work for a temporary firm as a plumber’s helper. It could give you a “taste” of the profession. Plumber’s helpers make sure that the tools needed to complete the job are available. They also prepare the work area for the plumber as well as cut new pipes, drill holes, assist with pipe removal, review blueprints, and maintain a working knowledge of worksite safety protocols.

Dustin Ide, vice president at Great Lakes Skilled Trades, says: “We haven’t yet put out any plumber’s helpers, but if the market asks for it, we’ll find the best person to fill the slot. Typically, if it is a large commercial job, a contractor will be looking for someone to have some basic plumbing or pipefitting experience, six-plus months typically, but I have also seen contractors take just a good construction laborer, someone who has experience on jobsites, and be willing to teach them as well.”

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Everything you need to know to become an electrician

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 14:09:19 GMT

If you haven’t heard, there’s a skilled tradesperson shortage. Starting in the ’80s, high school guidance counselors pushed a college education as the Key to Success. Everything else—working with your hands—wasn’t really promoted. At the time, no one really noticed that many people were not going into the trades. There were plenty of tradespeople to fill open spots back then.

Now, though, many of those tradespeople are retiring—and there are not many young people coming in on the front end.

But the trade that is in the shortest supply? That’s got to be electricians. Skilled trades staffing agencies like Great Lakes Skilled Trades often scramble to fulfill requests for electricians. As society becomes more and more technological, by necessity it becomes more electrified. Think about it. How many of us are living in “smart” homes? Seems like everything is “smart” nowadays—and that requires electricity.

“There’s a shortage in all the trades, but for electricians, that shortage is on steroids,” said Walt Czyrnik, Vice President of Membership and Chapter Development for the Independent Electrical Contractors . “Look at the data taken directly from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In job outlook, electricians are expected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Not just all trades—all occupations. This is verbatim from the BLS website.”

In this post, we’ll look at what you need to do to become an electrician—and thrive at it—and talk about the prospects in terms of wages and career progression.

How much can you earn as an electrician?

The national average annual salary of an electrician is $59,000, which is somewhat higher than the average annual salary for all occupations, $51,000, according to the BLS. With overtime, you could earn in excess of $75,000. These wages vary depending on whether the electrician is working in residential, commercial, or industrial market.

In states with strict licensing requirements, licensed Journeymen and Masters can almost name their own wage. Here in Michigan, as an example, we see Michigan Licensed Journeymen getting hired at between $32 to $40/hr.

Overall, electricians tend to be the highest-paid skilled trade.

“It requires significantly more training to become an electrician than most other trades, and it is critical that the work is done correctly,” Walt said. “Electricians understand the importance of their quality of work when wiring a hospital or daycare center, as an example. The employers of these electricians recognize the amount of attention to detail needed for this type of work, which results in paying higher wages than for other construction trades. Becoming an electrician is not just a job; it is a career you can have to support yourself and your family for the rest of your life.”

What does an electrician do?

Electricians install, maintain, and troubleshoot electrical wiring systems. Electricians work inside or outside buildings to ensure lights, industrial equipment, and appliances operate safely and reliably. There are many special types of electricians, including residential electricians, who install wiring and solve electrical problems in homes, and inside electricians, who maintain and repair control systems, motors, and electrical equipment in businesses and factories.

Day to day, that means you’ll do things like the following:

You’ll be called on to interpret blueprints, wiring diagrams, and other technical documents that show the locations of circuits, outlets, load centers, panelboards, and other electrical equipment.
Going off these technical specs, you will install and connect wires to circuit breakers, transformers, outlets, or other components and systems.
You’ll be called on to inspect electrical components like circuit breakers and transformers and use various testing equipment to identify electrical problems—and then fix those problems.
You’ll be expected to understand electrical specifications and electrical theory to determine job requirements.
You’ll be expected to use a variety of tools, such as power construction equipment, measuring devices, power tools, and testing equipment, such as ammeters or voltage testers.
In any given day, you could install motors, motor control stations, and automated lighting controls.
You’ll be involved in just about every phase of a construction project, from laying underground wiring in the foundation stage to finish work like hanging light fixtures.

“An electrician’s job is certainly challenging, and working safely with electrical circuits is always on the forefront, but that makes it an important career as well,” said Walt. “No matter how much technology changes, you’ll always have to plug it in.”

What kind of training is required to be an electrician?

Electrician is one of the hardest trades to master, which isn’t surprising when you consider how technical—and dangerous—the work can be. Most electrical apprenticeship programs, like the one that IEC offers, require four years to complete, many expecting a full week’s worth of work as well as attending an in-class instruction during the evening.

“The great aspect of being an electrical apprentice is that you earn while you learn,” said Walt. “With traditional forms of education,” he continued, “the person receives the education then looks and hopes for a job. An apprenticeship program is 180 degrees different. You get the job first and then receive the training and education while you’re working at that job.”

You should be able to complete the electrical apprenticeship program without incurring any school debt. Compare that with a four-year college degree! Often employers pay your tuition, and scholarships are available if you’re an electrical apprentice.

Typically at the end of apprenticeship training, these soon-to-be electricians may need to pass a location-specific examination that tests their knowledge of electrical theory and the National Electrical Code.

“There’s a lot of knowledge to absorb and become an expert,” said Walt. “Let’s say you’re building a Walmart. Just think of all the different types of electrical systems within that building—freezers to display lighting to automatic doors. The breadth of information you must work with is off the charts.”

Is being an electrician dangerous?

After all, you could work with high-voltage electricity that might shock, harm, or even be fatal. But did you know that out of more than 735,000 electricians working in the U.S., there are only a few fatalities? And those are more likely to be the result of a fall than from electricity. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2017 there were 8.4 deaths per 100,000 electricians. Compare that with a groundskeeper (15.9 per 100K) or farmer (24 per 100K) or even your local garbage collector (34.9 per 100K), and the dangers of a career as an electrician do not seem quite as scary.

Becky Mason, an electrician in Midland, Michigan, pooh-poohs talk of her profession being a dangerous one.

“Most people are afraid when it comes to electrical, but the truth is, you shouldn’t be afraid. Respect it, and you will be fine,” she said. “As long as you have the respect and not the fear, electrical is simple like any other of the trades.”

Do you have what it takes to be an electrician?

You’ll need basic math skills. Apprenticeship programs may offer refreshers on basic algebra to get students up to snuff. With that foundation, you’ll have to have top-notch soft skills—primarily teachability. You have to be a can-do person, someone who, when you finish one task, asks, “What do you need me to do next?” Someone who arrives at the worksite at 6:50 a.m. so you can get all your tools ready so you can start working at 7 a.m. A person who immediately raises your hand when the boss asks who wants to work overtime.

To lead the profession, you need a commitment to lifelong learning. The pace of technological change is dizzying. The best electricians have a passion for the industry and make a point of staying up on what’s new. Power Over Ethernet. LED Lighting. It’s always changing.

That’s the kind of person who is going to catch an electrical contractor’s eye to potentially get hired.

“A career as an electrician can really take you places—if you have the right stuff,” Walt said. “Prior to COVID, I was at the apprenticeship training center in Memphis and talking to the apprentices as they were ready to take their final school year exam. This one first-year apprentice showed up driving a company service van. ‘How did you get a company vehicle and you’re only in the first year of the program?’ I asked him. ‘Mr. Walt,’ he said, ‘I’m just that good!’ he said with a smile. I said, ‘I know what you actually technically know. It’s more than what you know. It’s your potential your employer sees. You have the right attitude. You could become a project manager or an estimator. Maybe you’ll even own your own company someday.’”

Walt closed the discussion by saying that “being an electrician is one career that cannot be outsourced. You can’t send a Walmart overseas to be built and then send it back.”

Did you like this post? You may also like:

Everything you need to know about becoming a plumber

Everything you need to know about becoming a welder

Everything you need to know about becoming a carpenter

Everything you need to know about becoming a roofer

Everything you need to know about becoming an HVAC tech

Everything you need to know about becoming a mason

Everything you need to know about becoming a painter

How a general labor job can get you into the construction industry

Sun, 11 Apr 2021 14:11:43 GMT

Perhaps you lost your last job thanks to the pandemic. During the quarantine, maybe you were on unemployment and did odd jobs on the side.

Well, the pandemic seems to be coming to an end—and you’re wondering what role you should play in the reviving U.S. economy.

Have you considered construction?

A lot of people haven’t considered construction as a career opportunity. Either they somehow got the idea that the pay is poor or they lacked enough construction experience—or both.

But now is a great time to get into construction—even if you have minimal experience.

“Everything just shut down during the pandemic,” said Jimmy Greene, president of Associated Builders and Contractors of Michigan. “There is a huge backlog of projects that were put on hold until things turned around—and now they’re turning around. It’s the perfect time to get into construction.”

There is an option if you don’t have much construction experience. You could start out as a general laborer. Construction laborers handle a range of tasks on a construction site. For example:

Preparing ground ahead of actual construction
Mixing and pouring concrete
Laying drainage pipes
Moving materials
Digging trenches for foundations
Fixing scaffolding and building frames
Assisting bricklayers, carpenters, and other colleagues on-site by providing materials
Marking out the area for the site using string lines and putting up barriers and safety signs
Operating hand machinery, such as drills, pumps, and compressors
Operating heavy machinery, such as excavators and dump trucks

You don’t need any special training to be a laborer. Desirable skills:

A good level of physical fitness
A head for heights
An ability to understand instructions and carry them out
A general understanding of health and safety issues
Good attitude
Dependable, on time

The nice thing about being a laborer is that they’re needed throughout a construction project, from laying the foundation to painting, so you’d get a look at all the trades. Because they are exposed to a large variety of tasks and types of work, general laborers frequently develop a wide base of knowledge that encompasses all areas of construction to build on when/if they decide to specialize.

Find the one that’s a perfect fit for you. Here’s a partial list:

Carpenter
Carpet layer
Dredger
Electrician
Fencer
Glazier
Heavy equipment operator
HVAC technician
Insulation installer
Ironworker
Lineman
Mason
Millwright
Painter
Pile driver
Pipefitter
Plasterer
Plumber
Roofer
Sheet metal worker
Welder

From there, you’d catch the eye of the contractor or subcontractor with your work ethic as a laborer and they’d put you through a two-year apprenticeship program. When you’re a journeyman, you’ll be making great money—and your future will be secure.

We’re in the middle of a huge shortage of skilled tradespeople. Most tradespeople are near retirement, and high school kids aren’t focusing on the trades after graduation. They’re focusing on a four-year degree as the key to success—so there won’t be enough people to fill those vacancies.

“The skilled trades are a fantastic career choice right now,” said Jimmy.

With more experience, you could move into a more senior role, such as a site supervisor, team leader, or construction manager.

Alternatively, you could set yourself up as a self-employed contractor.

So what’s your first step? A great way to get your foot in the door of construction if you have no experience is as a general laborer through a staffing agency. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of construction laborers and helpers is projected to grow 5 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.

Think about it. A job with a low stress level; good work-life balance; and solid prospects to improve, get promoted, and earn a higher salary

The Department of Labor notes that those with a military background have great prospects in this line of work because contractors are always seeking applicants who are in excellent physical shape, have strong math skills, and can work well with people.

“If you want an industry that’s on the upswing, that’s construction,” Jimmy said. “The future is bright for construction.”

Okay, you got that general laborer job? What’s next: You may like:

Everything you need to know to become a welder

Everything you need to know to become a plumber

Everything you need to know to become an electrician

How to stand out on a construction site

Tue, 23 Mar 2021 14:49:22 GMT

The time is now to make a career in the skilled trades. Seventy percent of U.S. construction companies can’t find enough workers to fill their positions. The pay is good. You have the opportunity to build things that will last.

Why not you?

If you decide to build a career in construction, here are some tips to get ahead:

Be a problem solver

It’s a given that the project is probably not going to proceed as drawn up. Something unexpected is going to arise. Wrong materials. Wrong personnel. It’s raining sideways. It’s the nature of construction. “If you’re an excavator, you might run into concrete—but you’ve got to learn your way around that,” says Jimmy Green, president of Associated Builders and Contractors of Michigan. “You have to be a problem solver. Otherwise, nothing ever gets done.”

Diversify your skill set

“At ABC, we encourage people to think like college students—have a major and a minor,” says Jimmy. “If a carpenter is an electrician or an electrician is a welder or a welder is a pipe fitter, at the end of the day, they’ll stay on the site longer. That translates into being indispensable, but even more importantly, it translates into earning more money.”

Be dedicated to safety

The trouble is, best practices are not always the most common practices. Stand out. Always do the right thing when it comes to safety. If you need ideas, here are the five health risks you should watch out for on a construction site:

Slips, trips, and falls
Repetitive motion injuries
Handling heavy equipment
Electrical shock
Exposure to hazardous materials

Give a full day’s work

The start time is the time you start work—not the time you show up. If you have to get there 15 minutes early to have your PPE on, have your tool bags on, and be in the right place, that’s part of the gig.

Be a good communicator

It might not be as obvious as skills like drywall installation or equipment operation, but interpersonal communication is an absolutely necessary skill for all crew members to have and continuously practice.

Having effective communication in construction is just as crucial to a team as having the right construction equipment. Both are required to get the job done and make sure the worksite is safe, productive, and efficient.

“Construction is the greatest team sport in the world,” says Jimmy. “It’s all about hand-offs.”

Stay busy

If you finish the thing you were doing, grab a broom. Clean construction sites are safer and build character. The time for checking your social media, texts, and emails is during breaks and lunches. Unless it’s work related, ignore the notifications!

Be a good listener

We’ve all experienced it. You’re talking to someone about something important—at least, it’s important to you—but the other person, the one who is supposed to be listening to you, you can tell they’re not really listening. Doesn’t that drive you crazy?

Don’t be that person.

Instead, practice active listening. That’s the process of listening attentively while someone else speaks, paraphrasing and reflecting back what is said and withholding judgment and advice. If the speaker agrees that what you heard is what they intended to say, you can move on. If not, the speaker needs to reword their statement until the listener really does understand.

Do your part to create an inclusive worksite

The truth is, most skilled tradespeople are white males—most nearing retirement. For example, women make up 51 percent of the workforce but only 3 percent of the crafts. We’ve all heard about the skills gap. We’re not going to fill that gap with just white males. “It’s up to us to create an environment where everyone’s welcome,” says Brian Turmail, vice president of public affairs and strategic initiatives with Associated General Contractors of America.

Embrace technology

Technology is going to be the future of this industry,” says Brian. “Drones. Robots. A hard-case iPad strapped to your tool belt.” If you want to stand out, be the person who knows what Building Information Modeling is, who knows what Lean Construction means. That means you’ve got to stay informed. It means you have to network with other people who are trying to stay current. It means you use technology as part of your own life.

Why not start a construction career today?

The construction industry is one of the largest in the U.S. The need to build homes and commercial buildings and roads and other infrastructure isn’t going away. As your experience grows, you can build a stairway to success, advancing into higher management positions, such as foreman, superintendent, supervisor, project manager, and construction manager. Contractors are always looking for enthusiastic, hardworking problem solvers and team players. Why not you?

What’s next? Consider these posts:

Everything you need to know to become a welder

Everything you need to know to become a plumber

Everything you need to know to become an electrician

3 in-demand skilled trades jobs

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 14:56:51 GMT

Considering a career in the skilled trades? You could do worse than going down one of these paths. Each of these specialties are in high demand. At Great Lakes Skilled Trades, we can’t find enough of them to meet demand.

Plumber

The average age of plumbers is 50-plus. Pretty soon they’re all going to retire and then the hottest job in the country will be plumber.

Federal data indicates plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters have a median pay of about $52,590.

“Get a quote from a plumber and you’ll understand why it’s a lucrative profession!” said Jimmy Greene , president of Michigan Associated Builders and Contractors.

“Most people have this perception of what it means to be a plumber and it’s sticking your hand in a toilet,” Jimmy added. “That’s only about 5 percent of what a plumber does. Building infrastructure is about 80 percent.”

Are you plumber material? Well, are you analytical—a problem-solver? You might be called upon to analyze blueprints and floor plans to understand the existing water system or you might have to pitch in on the design and planning of a new one or one that’s being renovated.

See: Everything you need to know to become a plumber

HVAC tech

“Especially now, everybody is thinking about air filtration, what with Covid 19,” says Jimmy. “I’ve heard of many contractors who are swamped work for restaurants, hospitals, schools. Proper filtration. That’s not going away. People are reactive now. Moving forward, they’re going to be proactive for the next Covid.”

The median pay for an HVAC tech is $45,000.

Are you a good fit? “Someone who enjoys mobility,” Jimmy said. “Someone that likes physical work and has great eye-hand coordination.”

Welder

There are all sorts of welders. Commercial. Residential. Pipeline. Even underwater. You could be one of them.

The median pay for welders, according to the American Welding Society, is $41,000. Many make far more, though.

Most welders have a certification to weld something very specific, and they’ve built a career out of that, such as gas pipeline welding. They travel the country, and maybe even the world, plying that craft. Many others have a specialty but also weld a wide variety of materials.

“Few people do it because of the math competencies required,” says Jimmy. “But it’s highly compensated, rightly so.”

Are you a good fit? “Detail, detail, detail. Patience, patience and patience,” Jimmy said when asked what qualities make for a good welder.

“Women have been known to be exceptional welders,” he added. “They tend to follow patterns where young men follow the flame.”

See: Everything you need to know to become a welder

Women make awesome skilled tradespeople

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 15:00:58 GMT

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics tells us that 90 percent of skilled tradespeople are skilled tradesmen. That means for every 10 workers on a jobsite, nine of them are men.

But that’s changing, slowly, as more and more women follow their passion and pursue a job in the skilled trades.

With such a high demand for skilled trades jobs, there’s never been a better time for women to consider a career in construction, plumbing, HVAC, electrical, or wherever their interests in the trades lie.

Women like Hannah.

Great Lakes Skilled Trades recently sent the 23-year-old single mother out to a Grand Rapids contractor as a carpenter’s helper.

Hannah’s story—“I’m learning so much!”

“My dad was really into DIY stuff at home, and he always involved me,” she says. “In middle school, there was an option to take shop class and use all the power tools, and I jumped right in. In high school, instead of math, I took engineering.”

Her goal now is to get certified as a carpenter, a 60-hour class. As a certified carpenter, she’s likely to earn $60,000/year—enough to build a comfortable life for herself and her daughter. That will come when she has a little more extra time and cash. For now, she’s happy just to be doing what she loves for work.

“I’m learning so much,” she says. “For example, I’ve learned I like residential carpentry more than commercial.”

She likes the idea of owning her own contracting company someday but doesn’t want to shy away from getting her hands dirty, too. “Doing everything from start to finish, framing, electrical, plumbing, drywall, finishing—I love doing it all.”

Becky’s story—“Get over any fear”

She could do worse than to end up like Rebeckah Manson, journeyman electrician with Valley Electrical Contractors in Midland, Michigan.

The 41-year-old grew up in Grand Rapids and attended Central Michigan University on a softball scholarship back at the turn of the millennium. She went to school with the thought of being an architect but was fascinated by the hands-on world she encountered when she took classes related to that part of the business.

After graduation, she bounced from job to job—in addition to playing professional softball overseas—before finally deciding to give a career a go as a skilled tradesperson and enrolling at the Greater Michigan Construction Academy , a trade school in Midland. She was one of the school’s first female students. She now fills in as an instructor there.

She’s been able to build a comfortable life as a journeyman electrician with Valley. She owns her own home in Bay City and was able to take her family of four to vacation in South Carolina last year. Her 21-year-old daughter is in her last year at college and hopes to go into the medical field. Her 18-year-old son has been making noises that he might want to be a welder.

Both choices are fine with Becky. Just follow your passion, like she did.

What’s Becky’s advice for women like Hannah who are interested in a career in the trades?

First off, don’t be intimidated

“Get over any fear,” she says. “There’s nothing terrifying about the job as long as you have great teachers teaching you and great people around helping you.”

Her team at Valley Electrical doesn’t give a second thought to the idea that she’s a woman. She’s a critical part of the team.

“Sometimes when I go on a new jobsite, some of the guys don’t know how to be around me. I just walk up and say, ‘You be you, and I’ll be me. I can do everything you do, and you can do everything I can do. I may not be as physically strong as you guys, but I don’t have a problem asking for help.’”

Two, don’t take no for an answer

Becky says she received more pushback about her gender when she was looking for that first trades job and watched men who weren’t as qualified as she was get hired ahead of her.

“You can do anything if you set your mind to it,” she says. “The fact that you’re a woman shouldn’t hold you back in any way.”

Three, have fun

There’s nothing like the camaraderie of a jobsite. Being part of the team is awesome—even if you’re the only woman. Any initial awkwardness will soon melt away, and you’ll just be peer craftspeople.

Some common entry level skilled trade jobs to get started are:

Carpentry Laborer
Electrician’s Apprentice
Painting Laborer
Flooring and Tile Laborer
Entry-Level Plumber

“We need more women in the skilled trades, period,” says Stephanie Davis, president of the Greater Michigan Construction Academy. “Most of our skilled tradespeople are men and they are nearing retirement. There’s a huge skills gap that’s already prevalent.”

Interested in a skilled trades career but unsure of where to go? Your local Great Lakes Skilled Trades is available to answer any questions and can help get you started right away.

Women, what’s the right trade for you? Check these out:

What if you have no construction experience? Check out: How to get a construction job when you don’t have a lot of experience or Using a temporary assignment as a doorway into the construction industry or How a general laborer job can get you into the construction industry

Once you get into the industry: How to stand out on a construction site

How to get a construction job when you don’t have a lot of experience

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 15:09:31 GMT

If you have a ton of experience in construction, looking for a job is kind of like shooting fish in a barrel. A layup. There aren’t enough highly skilled tradespeople to fill all the job openings, so you should get snatched up pretty quickly.

If you’re just getting started, though, it can take a little more . . . persistence. It will take a plan.

Treat the job hunt like it’s your job

When you’re unemployed, it can be easy to get distracted. There are so many interesting things to scroll through on the internet other than want ads! You don’t have that luxury—not if you want to stand out from all the other minimally or moderately experienced people looking for construction work.

That means you “clock in” and you “clock out.”

Decide what your schedule will be and stick to it. When are you most motivated to read through job postings? That’s when you should be looking for work. Make it the same time every day. Whether you’re searching online postings or driving out to jobsites, establish a start time and stick with it!

Should you apply on the jobsite or with a temporary agency? Both.

Go ahead and apply with every temp agency, but then narrow your attention on the firms that treat you with respect and show an interest in growing your career.

Set daily goals

You should expect to get one to two interviews for every 10 applications you fill out. Figure out what you have to do—how long it takes exactly—to fill out 10 applications and plan out your week accordingly.

Plan each day the night before. Spending just 15 minutes before you go to bed the night before to create your to-do list, and prioritize it, will give you a head start on the next day. To ensure that you are continually moving toward your goals throughout the day, pick essential tasks and place a small star next to them to remind you that these are the tasks that need to be done.

Make those applications count

The goal is two or three quality applications per day. Quality—not slap-dash. This means you need to research the company. Is this a company you want to work for? This means you proof your application—and have someone else proof it as well.

Adjust your resume to fit the job description. Make sure you get yourself past the resume robots that are looking for keywords!

Remember what contractors and temp agencies you’ve applied to. Create a doc that has the company name, the position, and a link to the posting so you can refer to it when they reply to you.

Measure and recalibrate

Review your stats at the end of each week during your search and make adjustments as needed. What was the job title of the person you talked to at each opportunity? Maybe you can try a different person. Or maybe you’ve been focusing on the large construction companies—and getting nowhere, frankly. (The person in the site trailer just tells you to go to their website!) So maybe try the “mom and pop” contractors. (They probably don’t even have a website!)

Be willing to start at—or near—the bottom

When contractors are looking to fill a specific need, they’re looking to get the most experienced person they can—a framer, for example—for the best price. They’re not interested in holding somebody’s hand on the jobsite to make sure they really know what they’re doing.

That means the only jobs you’re going to get hired for are the “carpenter’s helper”—or maybe just “general labor”—jobs. Unglamorous, yes—but it’s a foot in the door. Make sure you’re the best carpenter’s helper in the universe, the most eager to learn. Pick up construction debris like your life depends on it. That way, the contractor will use you on their next project. Pretty soon, someone on site will take you under their wing. (See: How a temporary a temporary assignment can be your doorway into a construction career and How a general laborer job can get you into the construction industry. )

Hang in there; your day will come!

Nobody likes rejection. But you should know that construction—specifically skilled trades—is a growing field. There is a so-called “skills gap” in the skilled trades. A lot of journeyman tradespeople are getting close to retirement, and there aren’t a lot of young people in the wings wanting to get into the trades .

By the 1990s, high school principals started to turn their focus away from construction-based shop class toward areas of focus that were supposed to propel students toward high-growth paths. The irony, of course, is that construction-based jobs are among the fastest growing in the U.S. over the next decade.

Students are pinning all their career hopes on a four-year degree. Today, just 14% of high schools offer construction-based shop class. Yikes!

By 2028, there will be more than 3 million openings in the skilled trades. But, given that just 5% of parents expect that their high school children are going to pursue these jobs, the crisis will worsen.

So now’s the time! Get that foot in the door with a local contractor and get noticed!

Women, all this applies to you, too! Why women make awesome skilled tradespeople

Okay, you got a construction job. What’s next? You may like:

Using temporary employment as a doorway into a career in the skilled trades

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 15:04:57 GMT

Interested in a career in skilled trades but don’t know how to get started?

A temp agency may be just the thing.

At least that’s what Mike Baxter’s thinking.

Growing up in Grand Rapids, Mike never thought much about what he wanted to do when he “grew up.” “My dad just said, ‘I don’t care whatever it is you end up doing, but whatever you do be the master of it.’ That stuck with me.”

It’s a long trip to master carpenter, no doubt—but Mike’s taken the first step at age 22. He answered a job ad for a carpenter’s helper—not realizing that the ad was posted by Great Lakes Skilled Trades. (To be honest, he wasn’t even sure what a skilled trades staffing agency was!) Mike came to Great Lakes Skilled Trades after a stint as a construction laborer in Texas. It wasn’t the greatest job in the world—but it gave him a taste for carpentry.

And he loved it.

Your attitude will set you apart

Steve Dubicki, director of sales with Great Lakes Skilled Trades, was impressed with Mike’s enthusiasm about construction when he walked into the branch in Grand Rapids five months into the pandemic.

“He had the perfect resume for getting started in carpentry temp work. We ask for construction experience—but we’re not super strict about what that experience needs to be. Attitude is the main thing. With the right attitude, you can build on even rudimentary experience with temporary assignments.”

For Mike’s first assignment, Great Lakes Skilled Trades sent him to “help out” at local contractor’s effort to remodel a 100-year-old building in Grand Rapids into a local architectural firm.

Basically, the job consisted of screwing together 2-by-4s to create frames/forms as placeholders for windows—plus general cleanup. Beyond that, just doing whatever ever needed doing.

Nothing overly glamorous, but Mike was energized.

“I’ve always enjoyed building things, whether that be something important or just playing around,” Mike said. “Hell, I just built my own bluetooth speaker at home.”

Step 2—catch the eye of the foreman

The foreman, Don, liked what he was seeing, so he took Mike under his wing.

After performing well on that first assignment, the contractor used him on five subsequent jobs, each one giving Mike a glimpse into a new facet of the fundamentals of carpentry.

“Don kept showing Mike a little bit more, a little bit more,” Steve said. “Blocking. Punch lists. Framing. You could see the excitement on Mike’s face.”

Now Mike’s starting to like the idea of a career as a carpenter.

“I’m near to pulling the trigger and going for it. It’s a lot of fun—all of it,” Mike said. “My current job is cleaning grout out of a restaurant floor, but if you don’t do your best with every job, what are you even there for? Don’t work simply for the paychecks. Do a job you can be proud of.”

First step toward master carpenter

Steve has no doubt Mike will make an awesome carpenter—and, yes, probably someday a master.

“The beauty of construction is there are so many great paths to take,” Steve said. “Somebody could start in residential carpentry and move on to commercial and then industrial or do whichever path they’d like to take. You have people who start their own businesses, people who find niche markets like staging for theme parks, and many others.”

Bottomline, don’t bet against Mike.

“You can make a lot of money as a carpenter, but if you’re working just for the money, you could end up spending your life doing things you don’t like doing, which is stupid. Better to have a short life full of what you love doing, than a long life spent in a miserable way.”

Hooray for Mike! But what about women? Can they use temporary assignments as a doorway into the trades? Check out: Women make awesome skilled tradespeople.

Okay, you’re in the industry. What are your options? Check out:

Why the skilled trades might be a good fit for you

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 15:12:31 GMT

Should you consider a career in the skilled trades?

Absolutely.

Why? One word: opportunity .

A generation of skilled tradespeople is nearing retirement—and there aren’t enough young people lined up to replace them. The construction industry is desperate for builders, plumbers, electricians, and others. Did you know that 3 million skilled trades jobs will go unfilled by 2028? A recent survey by the National Association of Home Builders showed that 69% of its members are already experiencing delays in completing projects on time due to a shortage of qualified workers.

Nowadays, most kids aspire to be social media influencers—or something else accomplished from behind a computer keyboard. A day trader. A banker in a corner office. Less grandly, a humble bureaucrat. Anything but turning a wrench for a living! Kids look at a blue-collar career as a second-class career—a consolation prize. Not surprisingly, just 5% of parents expect their kids to pursue jobs in the trades. “My son, the doctor!” they hope to brag to their peers—not, “My son the pipe fitter!”

So parents encourage kids to attend to the priciest four-year college they can get into and amass mountains of debt. The average bachelor’s degree is going to cost you more than $100,000. About two-thirds of students with bachelor’s degrees leave college with debt in excess of $26,000. Just imagine: You’re starting out, and you immediately have a $300 student loan payment—for a decade or more.

“We’ve defined success by the type of college degree you have. That’s absolutely wrong,” said Greg Sizemore, vice president of health, safety, environment and workplace development for Associated Builders and Contractors in Washington, D.C.

But can you earn a good living in the skilled trades?

The average carpenter salary is $56,000, according to Salary.com. The range for carpenters is $49,000 to $65,000. Granted, that’s not day trader territory, but it’s a salary you can raise a family on. It’s a comfortable living.

And a stable one. The skilled trades are not going away. We’ll always need people to keep the lights on and keep the water running, to build us houses to live in and roads to drive on.

“There’s a reason that during this pandemic, construction has been considered an essential industry,” ABC’s Sizemore said. “I love to say it this way: If your air conditioner doesn’t work on a hot August day in Anywhere, America, it doesn’t do you one bit of good if you have a Ph.D. or an MBA. The most important person in the world right at that moment bears the acronym HVAC.”

But will I be happy in a skilled trade?

When you work in the skilled trades, you work with your head, your heart—and your hands. You’re creating something tangible. You can see exactly what you’ve accomplished at the end of a day, and that feels great.

“You have the opportunity to go back and look at the things you built,” says Sizemore. “I can put my fingers on a building and say that I physically helped erect or maintain that building. There’s a pride in craftsmanship. That building’s going to last a lot longer than we are.”

And there are no worries about work/life balance. When you’re a skilled tradesperson, your schedule is your own.

“In construction, you create for yourself your own American dream,” said Sizemore. “You can work as much overtime as you want, or you can be strictly nine-to-five and go home to your family, be a soccer parent.”

Mastering a skill for a lifetime

The demand for carpenters, plumbers, electricians, and other construction-related roles is high and forecast to continue growing. Yet there aren’t enough qualified workers to fill these positions.

Maybe that’s where you come in.

“Construction has a value proposition that is net zero,” said Sizemore. “What I mean by that is that in most cases across America, there is such a significant demand for craft workers that contractors are willing to put you on their payroll and then educate you. And once you master a skill, you have it for life. You cannot forget it. You’re qualified to perform your skill—anywhere, anytime across America or around the world.”

What if you have no experience? Check out: How a general labor job can get you into the construction industry or Using temporary employment as a doorway into the construction industry or How to get a construction job if you don’t have much experience.

Once you get that first construction job: How to stand out on a construction site

What skilled trade is right for you? Consider these posts:

Women, don’t think the skilled trades aren’t for you: Why women make awesome skilled tradespeople

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