The construction industry in the United States is a massive $1 trillion. It employs more than 6.5 million people and is responsible for nearly 10% of the country’s GDP. The industry is highly cyclical, and its fortunes often rise and fall with the economy’s overall health. In good times, the construction industry is a significant driver of growth; in bad times, it can be a leading cause of job losses.
During the pandemic, the industry received a massive blow. Almost all construction projects were delayed or canceled, and hundreds of thousands of construction workers lost their jobs. The industry is now recovering, but it faces new challenges. Here are four of the most pressing challenges facing the construction industry today and how you can solve them.
Lack of Engineers
If you didn’t know, there is a severe lack of engineers worldwide, and field service engineers are among the fewest. These engineers are in charge of the bottom line of almost every project. They ensure that the materials and products are being used as intended, that they’re compatible with one another, and that they’re safe. The demand for engineers will only increase in the coming years as the construction industry grows.
The solution
One way to solve this problem is by investing in engineering training programs. Many construction companies have already started doing this. For example, Skanska USA has created a training program called “Skanska Academy,” which offers courses on everything from safety to project management.
If you need field service engineers in your firm, then you should start specifically hiring for them. Better yet, hire a third-party agency to help you out. For example, some recruiting firms hire field service engineering jobs to help you out. These firms have the necessary connections to find the best engineers for your firm.
The other solution is to embrace technology. Construction companies have been slow to do this, but it’s becoming increasingly necessary. There are now software programs that can do the work of engineers. For example, Autodesk’s BIM 360 but it’s becoming increasingly necessary. There are now software programs that can do the work of engineers. For example, Autodesk’s BIM 360 helps construction companies manage their projects and ensures that everyone works with the correct versions of drawings and models.
Delay in Projects
One of the most common problems in the construction industry is project delays. This can be a huge problem, leading to cost overruns and schedule slips. There are many causes of delays, but some of the most common is poor project planning, unrealistic schedules, bad weather, and material shortages.
The solution
The best way to solve this problem is to invest in better project management. This means having a clear plan for the project from start to finish. It also means setting realistic deadlines and ensuring that everyone involved in the project understands their roles and responsibilities.
Another way to solve this problem is to use technology. There are now many software programs that can help you manage construction projects. For example, Procore’s Project Management software provides a clear overview of every aspect of your project. It also allows you to track progress and identify potential problems before they cause delays.
Safety Issues
Construction is one of the most dangerous industries in the world. In 2018, there were 1,008 fatalities in the construction industry in the United States. This is a rate of almost four deaths per 100,000 workers. The most common causes of death are falls, being struck by an object, and electrocutions.
The solution
The best way to solve this problem is to invest in safety training for your employees. Many construction companies already do this, but it’s always worth repeating. You should also have safety procedures in place for every type of work that your employees do. For example, if they’re working on a scaffold, they should know how to assemble and disassemble it safely.
Material shortages
One of the challenges that construction companies face is material shortages. This can be a big problem because it can lead to delays and cost overruns. The most common materials in short supply are lumber, steel, and concrete.
The solution
The best way to solve this problem is to plan. This means ordering materials well in advance of when you need them. It’s also a good idea to build relationships with suppliers to get the materials you need when you need them.
You should also consider using alternative materials. For example, if you’re having trouble getting steel, you could use wood or concrete. There are also many new types of materials being developed all the time. These may be more expensive, but they could be worth it if they help you avoid delays.
These are just some of the challenges that construction companies face. But if you’re prepared and have a plan, you can overcome them. Follow t e solutions indicated above if your firm ever faces such problems.
