Recruiting Construction Leaders and Managers for the Future

The US construction industry has difficulty in attracting and recruiting personnel. Many who enter the industry are lacking management and leadership skills critical to success. Missouri University of Science and Technology conducted a study to determine what factors influence the decision of a college student to enter the construction industry. Experienced professionals were surveyed to determine factors that keep them in the industry and what the differences were between their expectations and reality. Potential construction professionals in college were surveyed about what attracts them to construction and what they anticipate in their careers. Extensive statistical analysis of the surveys is completed. Results show that students look for a career with challenges and a positive work environment. Frequent relocation and job related stress are factors that inhibit students choosing construction.