In the ever-evolving landscape of skilled trades, the shortage of qualified talent has become a critical challenge impacting businesses, trade school students, and experienced tradespeople alike. Whether you’re a business owner striving to build a robust workforce, a trade school student looking to embark on a fulfilling career, or an experienced tradesperson seeking to refresh your skills, this article is tailored to you.  

We will explore effective strategies for overcoming the skilled trades shortage, ensuring that the industry continues to thrive through the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders. 

Navigating the Changing Landscape 

Business owners, trade school students, and current tradespeople must grasp the evolving skilled trades landscape to address the talent shortage. Analyzing trends, identifying skills in demand, and recognizing industry-specific challenges provide insights that guide actions.  

By understanding the industry’s dynamic nature, each stakeholder can make informed decisions that contribute to a sustainable solution. Business owners can tailor their recruitment strategies, trade school students can align their training, and tradespeople can refine their expertise based on the shifting needs of the field. 

Tech-Savvy Approaches for All 

In the digital age of 2023 and beyond, establishing a robust online presence is indispensable for attracting and retaining talent across the board. Business owners can and should utilize social media, such as Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube, and other online platforms to showcase their company’s unique offerings and values. (Don’t forget about LinkedIn’s free job post feature!) Trade school students can explore potential employers and industry insights online, while experienced tradespeople can access refresher training through digital courses through services like The Blue Collar Virtual Trade School.  

Embracing technology allows everyone to connect, learn, and excel within the skilled trades community, regardless of their role. 

Crafting a Distinct Employer Identity 

For business owners, building a robust employer brand is key to attracting and retaining top talent. An employer brand that emphasizes growth, support, and skill development resonates with trade school students seeking promising career paths. By creating an employer identity that aligns with the aspirations of potential employees, businesses can position themselves as industry leaders dedicated to nurturing talent and fostering a culture of excellence.  

On the flip side, if you are a current tradesperson or a trade school student looking for your first position with a great company, make sure your own digital presence is strong and positive. Just about every hiring manager, recruiter, or decision maker at your potential employer will Google a candidate’s name to gauge their personality before moving forward in the hiring process.  

At The Blue Collar Recruiter, we encounter instances where employer brand shines through above anything else. Once we had a candidate who worked for a family-owned business as a lead, making $20/hr, while the going rate for this position was around $30-40/hr. Our recruiter was shocked to learn the candidate was still working at the lower rate, and enquired why. The candidate explained that she was fine with the lower rate but needed somewhere she could grow and establish her own identity in her career. Our recruiter suggested that if she was asked again about compensation, she should simply say she was open. 

At her interview, she was, of course, asked about compensation, and the hiring manager was just as shocked as we were since she was a very qualified and knowledgeable employee. What really blew us away was the phone call we received after the interview. Our client called to let us know even though they knew the candidate would be fine with the lower wage, the company felt it was important to the candidate to see how much they valued her, offering her $38/hr. 

Of course, she accepted their offer and continues to enjoy working where she is now. This company could have easily scored a qualified, knowledgeable candidate at a fraction of her worth, but they didn’t want that narrative. It was important to them to show each employee how valued and appreciated they were. 

Maximizing Professional Networks 

Trade school students and active tradespeople can harness professional networks to access a wider range of opportunities. Engaging with industry associations, forums, and online communities such as the Skilled Trade Job Leads and A/C HVAC Technician Facebook groups, facilitates connections with potential employers and fellow tradespeople. These networks provide valuable avenues for collaboration, sharing insights, and staying updated about job openings and skill-enhancing programs.  

Leveraging professional networks allows trade school students and working tradespeople to broaden their horizons and explore new avenues for growth. 

Strategic Skill Enhancement 

Those already working in the skilled trades industry who want to stay competitive and trade school students looking to stand out can benefit from strategic skill enhancement. By aligning training with the most sought-after skills, trade school students can position themselves as valuable assets to potential employers. Tradespeople can invest in refresher training to stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends, ensuring their skills remain relevant and adaptable to evolving demands. Prioritizing targeted skill development contributes to narrowing the talent gap and ensuring a skilled workforce. 

Collaborative Work Culture 

Creating a positive work culture is a shared responsibility among business owners, trade school students, and current tradespeople. Each stakeholder’s commitment to fostering an environment of collaboration, growth, and respect contributes to a cohesive and thriving community.  

By cultivating a work culture where everyone feels valued and supported, we collectively contribute to an industry that attracts and retains top talent. Collaboration at all levels enhances job satisfaction, fuels innovation, and elevates the reputation of the skilled trades sector. 

— 

The skilled trades shortage calls for a unified effort from business owners, trade school students, and active tradespeople. This article has provided tailored strategies for each group aimed at collectively overcoming the challenge. By embracing change, leveraging technology, prioritizing growth, and fostering a supportive community, we can collaboratively address the skilled trades shortage.  

Through shared dedication, the skilled trades industry can continue to thrive, ensuring a prosperous and sustainable future for all stakeholders involved. The Blue Collar Recruiter is here to help you, whether you’re looking to fill an open position, looking for a new job in the skilled trades industry, or looking to continue your education as a seasoned tradesperson through our Virtual Trade School. Contact us today!