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RT-436 Pathways to Craft Workforce Success

RT-436 Pathways to Craft Workforce Success

Launched: 2025 - Expected Completion: 2026

Background

The capital projects industry urgently requires effective strategies for workforce identification, recruitment, training, and retention. Failure to address these workforce challenges directly threatens project success, profitability, and the overall competitiveness and sustainability of the construction sector.

Research Questions

What successful strategies and specific practices for the identification, recruitment, training, and retention of craft workers can be learned from exemplar programs and projects implemented by companies to inform broader industry best practices?

Outcomes

The Implementation Resource 436 (IR-436) includes a compendium of case studies showcasing real-world examples of successful programs and projects focused on recruitment, training, and retention. These case studies provide concrete examples of what works, the challenges faced, and how they were overcome, offering practical models for adaptation and implementation. [Add link to CII Website)

Related Research, Resources and Initiatives

RT-414: Developing the Next Generation of Frontline Supervisors (ongoing research)

RT-370: Workforce 2030: What You Need to Know Now About Your Future Workforce

RT-335: Improving the U.S. Workforce Development System

RT-318: Is There a Demographic Craft Labor Cliff that Will Affect Project Performance?

RT-182: The Shortage of Skilled Craft Workers in the U.S.

Academic Publications

TBD

Roster

Chair: Jake Speck, Kiewit Corporation

Vice Chair: Dan Wannamaker, Bruce Power

Members

  • Anthony Baldwin, Bechtel Group, Inc.

  • Michelle Campbell, Pathfinder, LLC

  • Brendon Davis, Bechtel Group, Inc.

  • Mike Fipps, The Dow Chemical Company

  • Drew Jackson, McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.

  • Tiffany McMillan, Black & Veatch

  • Gerry Murray, Wood

  • Robert Persch, Kiewit Corporation

  • Laurie Rolfe, Day & Zimmermann

  • Paul Smith, Baker Construction Enterprises

  • Todd Sutton, Zachry Corporation

Academic

  • Timothy Becker, Arizona State University

  • Kristen Parrish, Arizona State University

  • Sanjana Mohan, Arizona State University (Student)