AGC-Autodesk Survey: Covid delays do not overcome skilled labor shortages

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) – The coronavirus has harmed the construction industry, prompting project delays and cancellations, layoffs and furloughs, yet it remains difficult for a majority of firms to find craft workers to hire, according to the results of a workforce survey conducted by the Associated General Contractors of America and Autodesk.

Results in Kentucky are similar to many of the national trends, the survey found (see results 2020_Workforce_Survey_Kentucky ).

The survey paints a picture of an industry in need of immediate recovery measures and longer-term workforce development support, association officials added.

“Few firms have survived unscathed from the pandemic amid widespread project delays and cancellations,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “Ironically, even as the pandemic undermines demand for construction services, it is reinforcing conditions that have historically made it hard for many firms to find qualified craft workers to hire.”

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