The role of construction trade programs in fostering social mobility, job equity, and addressing skilled labor shortages

Purpose The U.S. construction industry has faced a persistent shortage of skilled workers since the early 1980s, which poses challenges to the successful execution of construction projects. To address this shortage, this study proposes a practical workforce development solution by recruiting, educating, training, and certifying low-income individuals and members of underserved communities in construction trades. This approach promotes social mobility and job equity. Design/methodology/approach The study surveyed 114 students, alumni, and instructors from a Florida-based construction trade program (CTP) serving low-income and underserved individuals. The survey examined knowledge gaps in construction trades, whether participants found better job opportunities during or after the CTP; and which courses and instructional tools most effectively supported job placement and workforce training. Statistical tests, including Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin, Cronbach's Alpha, and Bartlett's Test of Sphericity, validated the sample. Binary logistic regression assessed whether students obtained improved employment outcomes during or after the CTP. Findings Results highlight that program participants secured better job opportunities during or after completing the CTP, underscoring its contribution to social mobility and job equity. These findings demonstrate the significance of CTPs as a practical workforce development solution. Originality/value Despite the urgent need to address the construction industry's critical labor shortage, research on practical workforce solutions remains limited. This study addresses this critical gap. It benefits low-income and underserved individuals by creating pathways to better job opportunities, and the construction industry and its stakeholders by tackling the skilled labor shortage.