Careers in Construction: How MEP+ Trades Are Powering Community Growth Nationwide
Explore the wide range of careers in construction through MEP+ trades, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and more. Discover how skilled trades are shaping communities nationwide, the growing demand for talent, and how to start your career in a thriving industry.
October marks Careers in Construction Month, a national campaign that highlights the opportunities and impact of skilled trades across the country. With the U.S. facing a construction labor shortage and massive investments in infrastructure and renewable energy, MEP+ trades, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, plus specialized fields, are at the center of growth.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the construction industry employed over 8 million people in 2023, and it’s projected to add nearly 400,000 new jobs by 2031 to meet demand for infrastructure, housing, and energy projects [BLS]. At the same time, Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) estimates the industry will need to attract over 500,000 additional workers in 2025 alone to meet project demand [ABC].
Electrical Careers: Powering Modern Infrastructure
Electrical careers are expanding rapidly thanks to clean energy initiatives, data center construction, and infrastructure modernization. Key career paths include:
Commercial & Industrial Electricians – Installing wiring, switchgear, and generators for large-scale projects.
Low-Voltage Technicians – Supporting communications, security, and smart systems.
Renewable Energy Electricians – Specializing in solar arrays, EV charging stations, and energy storage.
Maintenance Electricians – Ensuring long-term system reliability.
Did you know: Employment of electricians is projected to grow 6% between 2022 and 2032, faster than the average for all occupations [BLS Electricians]. The expansion of renewable energy infrastructure and electrification initiatives is a major driver of this growth.
Mechanical Careers: Comfort, Climate & Innovation
Mechanical trades are essential for maintaining energy-efficient, healthy environments. Career paths include:
HVAC Technicians and Installers – Designing and maintaining heating, ventilation, and cooling systems.
Sheet Metal Workers – Fabricating ducts and components for air distribution.
Refrigeration Technicians – Supporting cold storage, data centers, and critical industries.
Controls & Automation Specialists – Integrating smart systems for optimized building performance.
Did you know: The HVAC industry alone is expected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, adding approximately 20,200 jobs [BLS HVAC]. With new energy codes and sustainability targets, mechanical careers are becoming increasingly tech-driven.
Plumbing Careers: Protecting Health and Safety
Plumbing ensures clean water, safe waste removal, and gas distribution critical for public health and safety. Career paths include:
Commercial Plumbers – Installing complex piping systems.
Pipefitters & Steamfitters – Working on high-pressure industrial systems.
Medical Gas Installers – Supporting hospital infrastructure.
Fire Protection Specialists – Installing sprinkler and suppression systems.
Did you know: Plumber, pipefitter, and steamfitter jobs are projected to grow 2% from 2022 to 2032, but more importantly, around 42,600 job openings are projected each year due to retirements and workforce turnover [BLS Plumbers].
The “+” in MEP+: Emerging Specialties Driving the Future
The “+” represents specialized and emerging trades that are transforming construction. These include:
Smart Building Technicians – Integrating automation, IoT, and energy systems.
Renewable Energy Installers – Supporting solar, wind, and battery storage.
Data & Fiber Optic Technicians – Building the digital backbone of data centers and telecom.
Commissioning Agents & QA/QC Specialists – Ensuring performance standards.
Prefabrication & Modular Construction Experts – Using technology to build more efficiently.
Did you know: The renewable energy sector is one of the fastest growing in the U.S. solar installer jobs alone are projected to grow 22% by 2032 [BLS Solar]. As infrastructure becomes more connected, demand for these specialized trades is accelerating.
MEP+ Careers Drive Community Growth Nationwide
MEP+ trades aren’t just critical on the job site, they’re economic engines for communities nationwide. Skilled tradespeople:
Support infrastructure upgrades in both urban and rural areas.
Accelerate renewable energy adoption and smart city development.
Build stable, high-paying career pipelines for the next generation.
Contribute to local tax bases, small businesses, and community resilience.
For example, cities like Nashville, Phoenix, and Austin are experiencing construction booms that fuel job creation and population growth. Meanwhile, rural communities are benefiting from broadband expansion, renewable energy projects, and school modernization, all powered by MEP+ trades.
Start Your Career in Construction Today
With over half a million additional workers needed in 2025, pursuing a career in construction, especially within MEP+ trades, is more important than ever. Whether your interest is in electrical work, HVAC systems, plumbing, or emerging technology, this industry offers long-term stability, competitive wages, and meaningful impact.
This Careers in Construction Month, let’s celebrate the skilled professionals who build the backbone of our communities and inspire the next generation to join them.