New York’s plan to attract new construction workers

As the construction industry continue to struggle with a shortage of workers, New York City major Eric Adams has launched a US$18.6m programme designed to entice 2,300 low-income people into construction and industrial careers over the next three years.

The Pathways to Industrial and Construction Careers (PINCC) scheme will see participants selected by the Mayor’s Office of Talent and Workforce Development or the non-profit Consortium for Worker Education before being assessed for either construction or industrial training.

“All New Yorkers deserve to earn a living wage and share in our city’s prosperity, and that’s why I’m proud to announce the Pathways to Industrial and Construction Careers,” said Mayor Adams.

“With the support of an US$18.6 million federal grant, we are taking major steps towards making sure that thousands of New Yorkers have access to jobs that they can support a family with, while giving our city’s employers access to the talent they need to thrive.”

The skills shortage is being felt across the whole construction industry, but the US is has been particularly badly impacted. Data from the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) suggests that a lack of workers is holding back growth for the sector in the country.

“Although demand for projects is strong, there are too many states where contractors can’t find enough workers,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “The high level of openings and low unemployment rate among experienced construction workers shows the industry needs more workers.”

Three ways construction can tackle the skills shortage.