At the upcoming ABC Workforce Development Breakfast, owners, general contractors, and specialty contractors will come together to explore strategies that will shape the future of our industry’s workforce. The discussion will focus on collaboration, investment, realistic recruitment and retention, and the vital role of associations like ABC and CMEF in supporting workforce growth.
Future Collaboration Between Owners and Contractors
The event will examine how owners and contractors can partner more closely to support workforce development initiatives. Attendees will discuss the potential for owners to include training expectations and workforce investment requirements in future contract terms — a move expected to encourage higher standards and long-term growth.
By aligning early on workforce goals, owners and contractors aim to create projects that benefit from skilled, motivated teams, ultimately leading to smoother project delivery, improved safety, and higher quality outcomes.
Investment in Workforce Development Ahead
Financial support for workforce training and apprenticeships will be a key topic. The conversation will consider how owners and general contractors plan to increase their investment in upskilling efforts. Discussions will also explore ways smaller specialty contractors can access resources—such as grants, pooled funding, or partnerships with ABC and CMEF—to stay competitive.
Creative approaches to workforce investment, including collaborative funding models and expanded training programs, will be highlighted as strategies companies of all sizes intend to pursue.
Workforce Retention and Recruitment Strategies on the Horizon
The panel will share promising recruitment and retention strategies that are expected to work effectively on job sites in the coming years. Beyond competitive wages, companies will be encouraged to focus on mentorship, career development, inclusive culture, and work-life balance to build loyalty among craft professionals.
General and specialty contractors will explore how to better understand worker motivations and tailor their approaches to meet those needs, ensuring a stable, committed workforce.
Leveraging the Value of ABC and CMEF
The role of ABC and CMEF as key partners in workforce development will be emphasized. Attendees will discuss how member companies can deepen their engagement with association resources—including NCCER-certified training, apprenticeship programs, and advocacy efforts—to meet evolving workforce demands.
Ideas for expanding educational offerings, mentorship opportunities, and communication channels will be shared, with a goal to continually improve the support these organizations provide.
Join us for this important event and be part of the conversation that will shape the future of our workforce!