The mechanical, electrical, and plumbing sectors serve as the backbone of modern construction. From intricate HVAC systems to advanced electrical grids and plumbing installations, MEP+ ensures every structure's functionality, safety, and sustainability. These systems are vital to building performance and the comfort and efficiency of the people and organizations who rely on them. Skilled temporary labor in this sector is indispensable, offering flexibility and scalability for contractors navigating tight project deadlines and fluctuating demands. The importance of these workers cannot be overstated, as these individuals directly impact the success of every project they touch.

In the fast-moving industry, staying compliant with prevailing wage laws is essential for success. These laws, designed to ensure fair compensation for workers on public projects, present both opportunities and challenges for operations and financial teams, particularly when managing a temporary labor workforce. Navigating these complexities effectively is not only critical for legal compliance but also for maintaining financial stability and operational efficiency.

What Are Prevailing Wage Laws and Why They Matter

Prevailing wage laws establish a minimum hourly wage and benefits rate for workers on federally funded or assisted construction projects. These rates, determined by the Department of Labor, are based on local wage surveys and set a compensation standard for specific geographic areas. For companies, compliance with these laws helps mitigate penalties, maintain contract eligibility, and ensure the fair treatment of their workforce

Worker safety has always been a cornerstone of sustainable business practices, particularly in construction, where hazards are prevalent. In 2024, advancements in compliance monitoring and verification systems are revolutionizing workplace safety. These systems provide enhanced oversight and ensure adherence to regulatory standards, significantly reducing workplace accidents and fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

The pandemic reshaped our world in countless ways, but one of its most transformative impacts has been the renewed focus on healthcare. As communities continue to grow and heal, the demand for innovative, patient-centered medical facilities has soared. From state-of-the-art hospitals to welcoming outpatient centers, the healthcare construction boom is paving the way for a brighter future. Behind this progress lies a skilled and adaptable workforce, driving change and building spaces where lives are saved, and futures are made.

Have you ever wondered where your Google searches, social media posts, and cloud-stored files live once they leave your device? Meet the data center, a sprawling, technology-filled warehouse that powers the digital world. These facilities store, process, and secure vast amounts of data, ensuring seamless connectivity and performance for the apps and services we rely on daily.

Building and maintaining these sophisticated hubs require meticulous planning and execution, with checks and balances to ensure safety, reliability, and performance. This complexity drives a booming demand for temporary skilled labor essential to data center construction and operational phases.

National Apprenticeship Week shines a spotlight on the transformative power of apprenticeship programs, which provide individuals with a direct pathway to meaningful, sustainable careers. These programs have become essential to workforce development, combining hands-on experience, mentorship, and industry-relevant training. 

Let’s explore how apprenticeships are shaping career success and why they might be the perfect fit for you.

The construction industry is doubling down on safety and compliance. A big part of this progress comes from training and certifications, which empower workers to handle risks while fostering a culture of safety.

One key player in this movement is NFPA 70E, a gold-standard guideline for electrical safety. This standard provides a framework for protecting workers from electrical hazards like arc flashes and shocks. By integrating training courses and education into practices, companies ensure workers are equipped with the tools and knowledge to handle high-risk tasks safely.

Everywhere we turn, technology is advancing, reshaping industries, and opening doors to innovation, and construction is no exception. Once seen as a purely physical field, the construction industry now thrives with the support of cutting-edge technology that enhances efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

Last week, we had the privilege of supporting our partners at TDIndustries, TDI, during their annual Bent Iron Golf Tournament. Through this event, they are championing a critical cause by supporting the Construction Education Foundation, CEF. Together, we are building the next generation of skilled professionals ready to drive the construction industry forward.

With Careers in Construction Month upon us, it’s the perfect time to examine what it takes to advance in this industry. Behind the physical structures lies a roadmap to personal and professional growth, one that’s filled with purpose, progression, and limitless potential. Here’s a strategic look at the steps that help professionals in construction rise from entry-level roles to influential leadership positions in construction.

As we celebrate Careers in Construction Month, it's essential to shine a spotlight on companies making an impact in the industry and their local communities. Our partner, Starr Electric Company, SEC, is leading this initiative by shaping the future of construction through actively engaging with the community and creating opportunities for the next generation in the trades.

October is Careers in Construction Month, a time to shine a light on the lucrative and fulfilling career paths in construction that don’t require a four-year college degree. If you’re looking for a stable job with great earning potential, personal satisfaction, and plenty of room for growth, look no further than the construction trades.

Every year, millions of students face a crucial decision after high school to either pursue a traditional four-year college degree or explore alternative career paths, such as entering the trades. The rising costs of higher education, combined with uncertain job markets, make this a particularly difficult choice. With Careers in Construction Month upon us, now is the perfect time to consider the benefits of skipping the college tuition bills and diving into the dynamic, high-paying world of the trades, especially in construction.

The battle for talent has reached a critical point in this competitive industry. As projects become more complex and the demand for skilled labor continues to rise, companies grapple with significant recruiting and retention challenges. Understanding these issues is essential for thriving businesses in a competitive landscape.

According to OSHA, “over 20% of work-related deaths happen in the construction industry.”

Safety incidents, inefficiencies, and regulatory complexities continue to pose significant challenges for the project managers and companies in charge of these projects. Traditional approaches to workforce management are becoming increasingly inadequate in meeting the demands of modern industries.

At this year’s RE+ conference, one theme stood out, labor remains one of the most significant challenges facing the renewable energy industry. As the sector experiences unprecedented growth, finding skilled and reliable labor has become increasingly complex. From constructing solar farms to maintaining wind turbines, the demand for a diverse and talented workforce is greater than ever.

From 2015 to 2024, Nashville's skyline experienced a remarkable transformation, reflecting the city's rapid growth and evolution. This dramatic change marked by new skyscrapers, dynamic neighborhoods, and cutting-edge infrastructure highlights the critical role of the construction industry and the importance of effective workforce management. Amidst this growth, a significant challenge has emerged: a labor crisis that underscores the need for labor managers to adopt flexible, scalable workforce solutions, particularly turning to the temporary labor workforce.

With the changing demand for skilled labor in the construction industry, businesses must maximize every opportunity to gain manpower to remain profitable. One often overlooked aspect is how companies utilize temporary employees from staffing agencies. Are these temporary employees as productive and reliable as your full-time employees? If not, why? After all, they often come from the same labor pool. Let’s explore why this discrepancy exists and how Smart Labor Management, SLM, can help fully integrate temp labor into your workforce, driving both productivity and profitability.

Beyond financial repercussions, the human cost of neglecting safety is immeasurable. Statistics show that over 60% of construction accidents occur within an employee’s first year on the job, underscoring the need for thorough and early safety training. Workers aged 25 to 34 are particularly vulnerable, suggesting that targeted safety measures for this group could significantly reduce injury rates.

Unfortunately, the construction industry ranks second in workplace fatalities, trailing only behind truck driving. These deaths are not just numbers they represent the loss of lives, the devastation of families, and a blow to workforce morale that can linger long after the incident. This is a key factor in protecting your business from the far-reaching consequences of non-compliance.

The construction industry is at a pivotal moment, grappling with an unprecedented labor crisis that demands smarter, more efficient labor management. With temporary labor comprising about 10% of the workforce, companies across the nation are feeling the strain of being understaffed and needing innovative solutions. Smart Labor Management, SLM, is stepping in to bridge this gap by streamlining access to skilled labor through a combination of industry expertise and strategic partnerships.