The electrical contracting industry is grappling with a severe and worsening shortage of skilled workers, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a need for 80,000 new electrician jobs annually through 2031. The situation is further exacerbated by the retirement of experienced baby boomers, as nearly 30% of union electricians are nearing retirement age, according to a 2024 study from the Manufacturing Institute and Deloitte.
Stakeholders are implementing innovative methods to combat this crisis. Trade schools and vocational-focused community colleges saw a 16% rise in student enrollment in 2023 compared to 2018. This surge in interest is partly due to the attractive earning potential.
Industry associations are partnering with educational institutions to develop specialized certification tracks, aiming to accelerate the training process without compromising quality. These tracks focus on high-demand areas such as electric vehicle charging, allowing apprentices to enter the job market quickly. And companies are taking proactive measures to attract and retain talent. Some offer apprenticeship programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Others are implementing mentorship programs to facilitate knowledge transfer and skill development.
Additionally, the industry is working to diversify its workforce. Currently, only about 5% of employed U.S. electricians are women. Efforts are underway to attract more women and younger generations to the trade through targeted outreach programs and representation in media and advertising.
Despite these efforts, the shortage remains critical. The electrical workforce is projected to shrink by 14% by 2030, while demand could increase by as much as 25% over the same time. This gap is particularly concerning given the growing demand for electricians in emerging sectors.
Below are some solutions to the human capital gaps we now face.
Apprenticeship programs
Apprenticeship programs have been a traditional way to train and develop skilled electricians. Many organizations are revamping and expanding these programs to attract more participants and make them more accessible.
NECA and the IBEW run the Electrical Training Alliance (ETA), Bowie, Md., which offers apprenticeship programs across the country through local Joint Apprenticeship Training Committees. These programs combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
Educational institutions
Many contractors and industry associations have partnered with vocational schools, community colleges and universities to develop specialized curricula and training programs.
The ETA collaborates with institutions to offer associate degree programs in electrical construction technology. These programs combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training, providing a pathway to becoming a journeyman electrician.
Pre-apprenticeships
To attract more individuals to move into the electrical trade, several organizations have launched pre-apprenticeship programs that provide introductory training and exposure to the field.
The ETA offers a pre-apprenticeship program that covers topics such as safety, tool recognition and basic electrical theory. Successful completion can lead to entry into a full apprenticeship program.
Outreach and recruitment
Many organizations are actively promoting the electrical trade and recruiting individuals from diverse backgrounds. For example, NECA launched the “Electri-City” campaign, which aims to raise awareness about career opportunities in the electrical construction industry, particularly among groups underrepresented in the trade, such as women and minorities.
Continuing education
To develop existing workers, ECs are investing in upskilling and continuing education programs. For example, the ETA offers various continuing education courses and certifications for journeyman electricians, covering topics such as renewable energy systems, building automation and safety practices. These help electricians stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and industry standards.
Many electrical contractors also provide in-house training programs and encourage their employees to pursue professional development opportunities.
By investing in workforce development, the industry aims to ensure a steady supply of skilled electricians to meet the growing demand for electrical services in the United States.
For more insights, check out “Is There a Labor Dilemma?”s There a Labor Dilemma?” in the September 2024 issue of ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR.
About The Author
FELLER has worked to bring new ideas into the electrical contracting world since 1979. His articles have been published in more than 30 magazines, and he has worked with dozens of utilities, associations, investors and regulators. Reach him at [email protected].