What Is The Future of The Construction Industry?
“You have no idea! When I was your age, I had to walk uphill to school… both ways… with no shoes… in the snow!”
We’ve all heard this old, dramatic phrase and had a good laugh at it. Still, though exaggerated, the message does ring true (just a little…haha). As time progresses, and modern technology provides more and more solutions, life tends to get a little easier from a physical standpoint. Yes, you may still be stressed out about the proposal that’s due Friday afternoon, but at least you can power on the crockpot with your smartphone so a nice, hot meal will be ready at 6:00pm.
While some are more noticeable than others, in time, change takes place everywhere. One of the first times I ever used a pneumatic nail gun, I remember my dad making a comment similar to the one above.
“Man… I remember when we didn’t have anything but hammers. We would have to frame an entire house with hammers and nails. We used to compete with one another to see who could drive a nail in the least amount of swings.”
No doubt, it will be the same with my sons. “Boy, y’all have it made with your lithium-ion, battery-powered nail guns. I still remember when we had to haul those heavy, awkward compressors around and fight tangled air hoses all day!”
But, is it technology that is really going to make a difference in the construction industry? Sure it helps, but I suspect a much bigger shift is coming. For far too long, society has viewed doctors, lawyers, and insurance agents as the professionals of the American workforce. Meanwhile, the construction worker operating the dozer is just “the dirt guy”. Nevermind the fact “the dirt guy” is diligently operating a 30,000 lb machine, putting a 20% grade around the house pad, and strategically rerouting the water runoff on the entire property… all while proof-rolling where needed to provide sufficient compaction. The same can be said for most other trades in the construction industry as well.
Don’t get me wrong. Most people mean no harm. It’s just a general stigma associated with the industry. I have even found myself trapped in that mindset throughout the years (and I’ve been in or around the world of construction for most of my life). Parents don’t generally encourage their children to become carpenters. And why would they? Who wants their child to enter into a line of work that will require strenuous physical labor that is made even more difficult in times of excessive heat, cold, and precipitation? For most people, construction employment is viewed more as a “job” and much less as a viable “career opportunity”.
The reality, however, is that these professions are every bit as important as legal counsel or doctor visits. Regardless of whether or not he is viewed as “blue collar”, when the A/C goes out in August, no one is more important at that time to that homeowner than an HVAC Technician. When the toilets back up and no longer flush, a doctor offers little help. It’s not that these “white collar” professions are less valuable than they have been made out to be (I wouldn’t want to be performing surgery on anyone). On the contrary, they are every bit as essential to society as they have always been viewed. My point is, the “blue collar” workforce is just as valuable and very much deserves the same recognition as a rewarding career that contributes to society.
And it’s in this mindset that I personally believe we are going to begin to see the biggest shifts in the construction industry. As a younger generation realizes the potential for success in the trades, many of them will likely enter into trade certification programs (as opposed to universities). For a fraction of the educational cost, they will be able to enter into career paths that offer not only great pay, but new and rewarding projects, different scenery, and strong team building experiences every day! This younger generation has an added advantage as well. As the internet has endlessly improved the modes of advertising and access to productive software, today’s youth have become much more aware of the value of marketing and business management. With an eye-catching logo and closely managed marketing campaigns on social media, they’ll be able to more easily create the professional image they desire for their company, plus keep the pipelines full with steady work.
Given, this is all a matter of opinion. However, if we can learn anything from history, it is this. Challenging times spur innovation. Some of the most practical solutions have come as an answer to some of the most detrimental problems. The workforce in the construction industry is currently experiencing significant problems. Lack of labor available, lack of talent, lack of pay… All of these factors are contributing to increased expenses and schedule delays. Unfortunately, this is also coming at a time when clients expect the absolute most out of the construction industry. With easy access to HGTV, Chip and Joanna Gaines, Home Town, Pinterest, Facebook and more, clients expectations are at their highest! And while so much of the world around us is becoming automated, there are just some things that still require craftsmanship and creativity that only a professional can provide!
No, the construction industry is not a less valuable (or viable) career path. On the contrary, it is one of the most rewarding and valuable avenues currently available to young people! But it requires recruitment, training, and mentorship. That is why Gustafson Properties, LLC places such a heavy focus on training and education. Our Certified Graduate Builder designation is proof that we have acquired knowledge and experience, both in the field and in the books. Our OSHA-10 certifications serve as a commitment to the health and safety of our employees and clients. Our membership to organizations such as the Association of Professional Builders shows our passion for improving, not only our company, but the industry as a whole!
So, are you ready to build your new custom home? Call the professionals today… (662) 449-6271!
