Challenges Persist for Construction Industry Amidst Pandemic Fallo
The construction industry witnessed a modest uptick of 23,000 jobs in February, yet businesses like DreamOn Group, a prominent San Antonio-based developer and contractor, grapple with the enduring effects of the pandemic.
Established by Julissa Carielo nearly two decades ago with a mere $75,000 from her 401(k) and a small team, DreamOn Group burgeoned into a thriving enterprise, boasting multimillion-dollar revenues and a workforce of 65 employees by 2019. However, recent years have seen a sharp decline in staff numbers, dwindling to 35 employees presently.
Carielo attributes this decline to the retirement of Baby Boomers, leaving a void in skilled labor that remains challenging to fill. Despite ongoing recruitment efforts, the company struggles to replenish its ranks, confronting a persistent shortage of skilled workers in the industry.
In response to these staffing challenges, DreamOn Group has shifted towards increased reliance on subcontractors for various project tasks, such as demolition, concrete work, and interior finishes. While this strategy offers a temporary solution, Carielo laments the loss of flexibility and control over in-house crews, reminiscing about the days when they could handle projects autonomously.
The plight of DreamOn Group mirrors the broader issue of labor shortages prevalent across the skilled trades sector, necessitating innovative solutions to adapt to changing workforce dynamics.
Related Topi
Contractor Skilled labor shortage Staffing challenges Baby Boomers Recruitment efforts
Subcontractors Project tasks Demolition Concrete work Interior finishes
Labor shortages Skilled trades sector Workforce dynamics