Maine's construction industry has been grappling with labor shortages for more than a decade now. The issue got worse during the pandemic, when workers were reluctant to get out there. But, just as construction firms and related businesses work with a blueprint, fixed budgets and dimensional lumber, they’re taking a structured approach to recruiting, hiring and retention.
It takes tens of thousands of workers to cater to the nearly 10 million visitors who will spend billions of dollars during Maine’s summer and fall tourist seasons. To fill those jobs, businesses do anything and everything they can.
When bankers talk about the skills needed to grow in the industry, they often refer to technical skills, such as the mechanics of how a loan works, and soft skills — the people skills that include interacting and communicating with customers.
Graduates of a free, three-week Manufacturing Technician Training course are guaranteed an interview with Bath Iron Works. Many go on to lucrative careers at the shipyard or at other manufacturers.
Consigli Construction has been one of the primary industry partners for AGC Maine’s Construction Immersion Program, which has been a priority in building a strong pipeline of talent for construction and the skilled trades.
