ATLANTA – The construction industry in Georgia is facing a significant labor shortage, requiring 10,000 new workers annually to keep pace with growing demand. The state’s need reflects a broader nationwide shortage of skilled tradespeople, with an estimated 400,000 to 500,000 new construction workers needed across the U.S. each year.

Scott Shelar, CEO and president of Construction Ready, highlighted the urgency of the situation. "In the United States right now, we need about 400,000 to 500,000 new workers every year just in the construction industry," Shelar said. "That's a huge demand. That means wages are going up for workers."

Hands-On Opportunities for the Next Generation

To address this gap, Construction Ready hosts an annual expo, inviting young people from across Georgia to explore hands-on experiences in the trades. This event allows students to interact with industry professionals, operate equipment simulators, and compete in skills challenges.

For example, attendees were able to:

• Experience electrical work firsthand with a guided heat display
• Operate heavy machinery through simulation screens
• Participate in a live welding competition, a popular attraction for students like Quetzali Mendoza, an 8th grader from Columbus, Georgia, who said: "I'm thinking about welding. That really caught my mind. I don't know. It's the buildings… it's really nice and beautiful."

Inspiring Future Tradespeople

The expo also serves as a career exploration opportunity for high school students considering a future in construction. Branon Griffin, a junior at Putnam High School, shared his perspective: "I'm a big math guy. Kind of like to think of it like a puzzle."

For some attendees, the event is more than just an introduction—it's a potential career path. Ricky Aguilar, a senior from Statesboro High School, competed in a contractor’s competition, with his father, Lupe Aguilar, watching proudly. "I think this is a great opportunity for all the kids to be learning different skills," Lupe said. "I'm hoping that he's going to develop a career out of this. And it will be really good for our communities."

The Broader Impact

With rising wages and increased job security in skilled trades, programs like Construction Ready play a key role in connecting young people with viable career paths while also addressing the labor shortages that impact Georgia’s economy.

For those interested in learning more about Construction Ready, trade careers, and training opportunities, the organization offers additional resources, including a blog and podcast to help future workers navigate their career options.

Originally reported by Dana Fowle in Fox 5 Atlanta.