October is Careers in Construction Month and National Energy Awareness/Weatherization Month, and Arizona stands at a crossroads.
Our state, home to one of the nation’s most active construction sectors, faces a critical shortage of trade professionals. This shortage doesn’t just threaten Arizona’s manufacturing and economic growth; it also impacts the very fabric of our community programs, which enable low-income and underserved residents to age safely and comfortably in their own homes.
According to the Arizona Commerce Authority, over 195,000 craft professionals are needed in Arizona by the end of 2024 to keep up with the demand. Yet, a persistent stigma around careers in construction continues to discourage young people from entering the field, with many perceiving it as a low-wage job with little room for growth. In reality, construction offers lucrative opportunities with pathways for advancement…