This ELECTRI International 2023 Special Project report focuses on and responds to the evolving nature of the construction trade workforce. The report is based upon a nationwide survey of close to 700 International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) electricians and 25 interviews with both field and office individuals representing National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) contractors. The objective of this study was to conduct a critical examination of worker motivation and job satisfaction among construction trade professionals. This report provides electrical contractors with strategies to manage, inspire, recruit, and retain trade workers.

Construction is one of the most labor-intensive industries, with 30-50% of the total project costs attributed to labor. The management of labor costs and productivity can be the difference between financial success or failure for a construction contractor. This dilemma is exacerbated by the shortage of skilled labor in the U.S. first starting in the 1980s [1]. Labor availability issues are more pronounced on projects with tight construction schedules. This, in turn, can impact safety, quality, and increase project costs because of the overreliance on overtime [2]. Yet, contractors must still deal with these concerns and find ways to balance their labor resources to maximize productivity without increasing worker fatigue.

The findings from the surveys and interviews conducted for this research report highlight individuals’ perceptions in the following areas: workforce motivation, workforce recruitment, workforce retention.