Mason Contractors: Construction Talent Development Report Released

Words: Dan KamysMason Contractors: Construction Talent Development Report Released

FMI, a provider of management consulting and investment banking to the engineering and construction industry, released its 2013 U.S. Construction Industry Talent Development Report. The report is based on responses nationwide from a mix of general contractors and construction managers at firms of all sizes and specialties, including mechanical/plumbing and heavy/highway/civil.

More than half of respondents report a shortage in skilled labor. As a war for talent begins, construction experts must evolve their methodology of searching for the best and brightest employees. 

First, construction careers must be made more appealing to women and minorities. Second, there must be an appeal to today’s youth through career counselors, career fairs and utilization of social media channels.

In addition, as baby boomers retire, more than 75 percent of those surveyed said they were preparing for a leadership transition in three ways:

  1. Promoting internally
  2. Training to improve performance
  3. Providing internship and co/op programs

Also, more than half of those surveyed said they were:

  1. Identifying gaps in core competencies
  2. Increasing recruiting efforts at schools and universities
  3. Employing “best practices” to retain key talent

To download a copy of the full report, click here. For more information, contact Sarah Vizard Avallone at 919.785.9221 or savallone@fminet.com.

Making Old Brickwork Look New Again
September 2026

Brickwork is built to last, but mortar isn’t. Over time, exposure to moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, and everyday wear causes joints to crack, crumble, and even recede. What starts as a cosmetic issue can quickly turn into a structural concern if left unadd

Why Joint Profiles Matter In Masonry Restoration
September 2026

For generations, masonry structures have been defined not only by the brick, block, or stone used in construction, but also by the mortar joints that tie everything together. Whether restoring a historic brick facade, repairing natural stone veneer, or re

Designed for the Way Contractors Work Today
September 2026

Every piece of equipment tells a story about the challenges contractors face. For more than 30 years, the EZG Manufacturing team has listened to those stories—through customer relationships, job site visits, dealer feedback, a

Chemicals In Masonry
September 2026

Mason contractors must deal with chemicals on the job site. One of the main ones comes in the form of dust. Another is acid. From high-rise commercial structures to residential facades, masonry work involves handling raw materials that require careful man