ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – A new report from the Associated General Contractors of America shows the impact of workforce shortages on infrastructure construction across the state.
A survey found that 91% of construction companies in Georgia are struggling to find workers. Analysis shows it’s impacting their ability to complete projects on time.
The study found that the majority of companies have tried raising pay and offering more training and professional development opportunities.
The report found the hardest positions to fill are architects, project managers, concrete workers, electricians, equipment operators, mechanics, plumbers, sheet metal workers and welders.
Construction Ready is a not-for-profit organization offering a 20-day certification program for workers.
They have locations across the state teaching students skilled trades. They’ve graduated more than 1,800 people from the program over the last decade.
Anthony Welch, the associate director and training and site management with the organization, says starting pay averages $18 an hour for some of the jobs.
“Construction …