The construction industry is booming but a lack of employees is making it hard for contractors to keep up.
A recent survey shows highway contractors expect to see 36 percent more work in 2017 but finding folks to clock in is the challenge. Ben Wallace, a student at Erwin Tech, says he has always been interested in construction.
"There is a huge need for it. I know from the statistics that I've seen, within the next couple of years we're going to need about 2 million workers to fill the job industry," said Wallace.
Jennifer Trejo, a junior in high school, also wants to get into the industry. She'd like to follow in her father's footsteps. He's shown her the ropes since she was young.
"I've been on a bulldozer, the crane, and a tractor basically and in the forklift and that's it. That's about it," said Trejo.
While many contractors say the machinery may seem intimidating, many contractors and companies say they will provide some on-the-job training. All you need to do is show up and apply.
Even still, Steve Pittman with Ajax Paving was shocked at all the experience he saw during Florida Construction Career Days. 1000 high school students from nearby counties were able to interact with and operate the heavy machinery and talk with contractors who are looking to hire.
"You see these kids out here, these kids already know how to operate some of the stuff," said Pittman. "They're pretty good - that's half the battle."
He says if you show up and pass a background check - they'll give you a shot and a pretty decent salary.
If a job in construction peaks your interest - head to www.OnBoard4Jobs.com to post your resume and get in touch with potential employers.
