Construction Needs Workers—So Why Can't People Get Hired? | Skilled Trades Careers

👷 Construction companies say they need workers. Skilled trades programs are training people. So why are so many people still struggling to make the connection between training and employment? In this episode of The Commercial Builders' Network, I'm joined by Rick Ellis of Blest Trade Alliance, a workforce-development professional with nearly three decades of experience connecting people with employment opportunities. Rick explains why completing a training program and being job ready are not necessarily the same thing—and what workers, training providers and employers can do differently. We talk about the gap between the classroom and the jobsite, and why technical training alone may not prepare someone for expectations like: ⏰ Showing up consistently and on time 🤝 Being coachable 🚗 Having reliable transportation 🗣️ Communicating effectively 👷 Understanding jobsite expectations 📈 Knowing how to grow once you're hired But this conversation isn't only about the worker. Rick explains why employers also have a responsibility to create a stronger bridge into the industry—with mentoring, realistic expectations, structured 30/60/90-day plans, regular feedback and opportunities for entry-level workers to gain real experience. We also discuss: 🏗️ How Blest Trade Alliance connects schools, workers and employers 💼 Why small construction businesses shouldn't assume they have to train new workers alone 🎓 Why a certificate doesn't automatically make someone employable 🛠️ How real jobsite experience can help close the workforce gap 📈 How employers can improve retention after hiring someone 🏠 Why transportation, childcare, housing and other barriers matter when helping someone transition into a career 💰 Why skilled trades can become a pathway to stronger income, entrepreneurship and long-term opportunity 🔧 Why electricians, HVAC professionals, construction workers and other skilled tradespeople shouldn't view these careers as “settling” Rick makes an important distinction: Everybody who will pay you isn't necessarily going to invest in you. For workers, the goal shouldn't simply be finding someone willing to hire you. Look for employers willing to help you continue developing your skills and career. And for employers? Training is an investment. If the construction industry wants to solve its workforce shortage, workers, training providers, employers and workforce organizations have to work together. 🎥 Watch the full episode and subscribe to The Commercial Builders' Network. Construction can change your life—and it's starting to look a lot like you. #ConstructionCareers #SkilledTrades #ConstructionJobs #WorkforceDevelopment #Apprenticeships #ConstructionIndustry #CareerDevelopment #ConstructionTraining #TradeSchool #TheCommercialBuildersNetwork Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: BMHLO6LBBHZQGI2A