Attracting the next generation of concrete contractors

The construction labor shortage is an ongoing challenge for the entire construction industry, but especially the concrete sector, as the average age of employed workers increases and companies risk losing an entire generation worth of knowledge and unique, specialized skills. How can the industry, as a whole, attract the next generation? 

First, one tactic is to ensure young workers know that the old perception of construction jobs - physical jobs filled with hours of manual labor - doesn’t necessarily match the reality of the modern job site. While working with concrete conjures up images of wheelbarrows, cement and shovels, this is just one part of the industry. In reality the process can be much more complex. It’s a core element of any construction project as it’s literally laying the foundation. These jobs require knowledge and skills beyond basic mixing and concrete delivery, including everything from developing accurate, structurally sound building or bridge designs, interpreting, reading and understanding blueprints and accurately measuring the quantity of aggregate materials and cement required for a particular job. 

More companies are also adopting technology to improve processes and efficiency. For example, 3D BIM (Building Information Modeling) software helps companies accurately estimate and design projects, set concrete volumes and calculate formwork, making the planning process easier and providing more accurate data and figures for workers. Another example is 3D concrete printing, which provides an innovative way to design and pour cement to create intricate concrete designs. GPS vehicle tracking systems and advanced analytics are another example of technology available to the industry to improve efficiency, helping companies track ready-mix concrete deliveries and progress as over-the-road fleets transport it to construction sites. 

These new types of technology and increasingly connected construction sites help organizations gain insight into their business, but also means more data is available than ever before, creating a need for administrative positions that work with data and are familiar with BIM or 3-D model-based processing technology. There are many potential workers who may not be aware that these job positions exist, so it’s important construction companies raise awareness for tech-oriented positions. This is especially true for younger employees, as they typically want to work for companies that are digitally relevant and up-to-date with the latest digital tools.

To learn more about Teletrac Navman fleet management solutions for the construction industry, please visit: Construction Site Management Software

Attending World of Concrete 2019? Check out live demonstrations of our workflow and asset management solutions. Visit Adrian Duigan and the rest of the Teletrac Navman team at booth N1477.