Construction workforce shortages have increased the importance of recruitment strategies that reach beyond traditional hiring channels. Hensel Phelps is using community partnerships and employment support programs to help people facing barriers enter the construction industry, according to an update published Oct. 12, 2026, during Construction Inclusion Week.
In Southern California, Hensel Phelps launched its Employment Opportunity Program in 2021 to connect prospective workers with construction employment. The initiative works with community-based organizations that identify candidates, assess their circumstances and prepare them for workplace expectations.
Candidates selected to advance take a five-day entry assessment administered by the Laborers union. Successful participants can then pursue employment without first completing a longer apprenticeship-readiness program, which can require eight to 12 weeks of unpaid participation.
Over five years, Hensel Phelps interviewed 23 candidates through the program and placed six in employment.
The initiative also addresses practical obstacles that can prevent candidates from starting or maintaining jobs. Support has included assistance with union initiation fees, transportation, work clothing and employment verification needed for housing. Project teams have also identified suitable work opportunities for employees facing initial restrictions on where they can work.
Hensel Phelps established a workforce development partnership with Nashville-based 4:13 Strong in 2018 as the contractor expanded its presence in the region. The collaboration developed in response to competition for skilled workers and the need to connect more people with construction careers.
4:13 Strong operates a residential workforce development program for men that combines vocational education, life skills and employment preparation. Its program is described as a six- to eight-month experience offering stable housing, work readiness, marketable skills and support for the transition into employment.
Hensel Phelps brings participants to construction jobsites, where employees explain their roles and introduce the range of careers available across the industry. The exposure allows participants to see construction work in practice and learn about potential employment routes.
The partnership also connects participants with trade partners seeking workers. Rather than requiring participating employers to hire particular candidates, the approach creates opportunities for candidates and employers to discuss potential job matches directly.
Hensel Phelps supports the ACE Mentor Program of America through sponsorship and employee volunteers who mentor high school students interested in architecture, construction and engineering.
The program gives students opportunities to learn from industry professionals and explore career options in the built environment. Hensel Phelps also participates in ACE Day of Action, scheduled for Oct. 16, 2026, which encourages industry professionals to provide mentorship and raise awareness of construction-related careers.
The mentoring effort complements the company's employment programs by introducing students to the industry before they enter the workforce. While the Southern California and Nashville initiatives focus on helping people prepare for employment, ACE works earlier in the career pipeline through education and professional exposure.
Hensel Phelps' programs demonstrate how construction employers can combine recruitment, practical training, community support and mentoring to broaden workforce participation.
For contractors and trade partners, the initiatives highlight potential ways to connect with candidates who face barriers to employment while developing relationships with community organisations and educational programmes. The reported outcomes also provide measurable indicators of the Southern California program's reach, including six placements from 23 candidates interviewed over five years.
Maintaining these pathways requires continued coordination among contractors, trade partners, workforce organisations and educators. The programs address different stages of workforce development, from introducing students to construction careers to helping job candidates enter employment and progress professionally.
Source: Hensel Phelps.
