Many careers in construction begin with career and technical education (CTE). February is Career & Technical Education Month, and it’s the perfect opportunity to spread awareness for the importance of technical training and specialized craft education.
According to the Association for Career and Technical Education, “more than 5.7 million workers will be needed in non-residential construction, yet the expected available construction workforce during this period will only be 4.7 million, resulting in a deficit of at least 1 million workers. Crafts expected to be in highest demand are carpenters, masons, pipefitters, heavy equipment operators, electricians and welders. In addition, demand will increase for architects, landscape architects and civil engineers because of the need for new construction projects for a growing population as well as the expanding green building sector.”
To learn more about the current state of construction in Kentucky, check out this breakdown from the Association of General Contractors.
The path to a career in construction can look different for each person, but education is a key component. For some people, this happens in a traditional way during high school and post-secondary school. For others, career and technical training begins as they prepare for their first jobs or careers as adults. Either way, our industry relies on the work of the many amazing professionals and teachers who are working hard to educate the next generation of the construction workforce–and we’re happy to celebrate them all year long!
