The Expert Podcast

For the last couple of years, there's been an incredible shortage of workforce in the construction industry. General contractors, subcontractors, and builders have had a tough time finding skilled tradespeople who can work on projects such as sheetrock, framing, excavation work, and roofing. This shortage has caused delays in building projects and increased costs. Even builders willing to pay very high salaries couldn't find workers.

This shortage stemmed from a reduction in the workforce and a huge jump in the number of construction projects. Now, with interest rates increasing and house prices jumping to levels where fewer people are interested in building, there's starting to be a bit of a glut in the system.

Drop a comment below and let us know if you're a tradesperson. Are there more demands for your work, or are there more jobs available now because fewer people are looking for these types of workers?

According to an article from Oregon (and this may be true in other states as well), the recession that's beginning to bubble up is having a domino effect in the construction industry, leading to job losses. This is unheard of compared to a couple of years ago when anyone wanting a job could easily find one.

The question now is: Are there more workers than jobs? Are you a contractor or construction company that's currently looking for work and finding it easier to locate and onboard people? Or are you a worker noticing fewer job opportunities and more competition for those jobs?

It seems like there's still high demand. However, according to this article and a few other sources, there may be a shift in the marketplace. Builders willing to pay big money—offering $80 or $90 an hour for skilled construction experts—couldn't find takers for framing, drywall, or painting, even at those high rates.