New Faces on the Jobsite: How Infrastructure Spending is Diversifying the Skilled Trades

For years, the skilled trades have grappled with a shrinking and aging workforce. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that nearly one in four construction workers is aged 55 or older, and retirements are accelerating faster than new entrants can fill the gap. Meanwhile, the demand for skilled workers is booming. Driven by federal policies such as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), states and local governments are launching a wave of new projects, fueling a hiring spree for electricians, welders, heavy equipment operators, and construction managers. This urgent need for talent has prompted companies, unions, and workforce agencies to expand recruitment beyond traditional sources. By proactively seeking out underrepresented groups, they are not only filling vacancies but also bringing fresh skills and perspectives into the trades.

Women Breaking Ground

Women have long been underrepresented in construction and related trades, historically comprising less than 4% of the workforce. However, that number is slowly climbing as organizations and employers invest in outreach, support, and training. The National Association of Women in Construction, for example, offers mentorship, networking, and educational opportunities designed to help women succeed in these fields. Local apprenticeship programs are also making concerted efforts to recruit and retain female candidates. Personal stories highlight this progress. Angela Hernandez, once a retail manager, now operates heavy machinery on a Texas highway expansion. Studies back up her experience—diverse teams are often safer and more productive, thanks to a broader range of problem-solving approaches and enhanced communication.

Veterans Find a New Mission

Veterans have always brought discipline, teamwork, and technical skills to civilian jobs, but the skilled trades offer a particularly strong fit. Programs like Helmets to Hardhats help veterans transition from military service into construction, utilities, and transportation careers by connecting them with apprenticeships and job opportunities. Take Marcus Lee, a former Army engineer, who now works as an apprentice electrician. Employers increasingly value the leadership, logistics, and project management experience that veterans bring—skills that are vital as infrastructure projects grow more complex and technologically advanced.

Career Changers Bring New Perspectives

The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a wave of career re-evaluation, prompting many Americans to leave office jobs for more stable and tangible careers in the trades. Community colleges and workforce development agencies have seen a surge in enrollment from mid-career professionals—including teachers, chefs, and even marketing executives—looking to retrain for hands-on roles. These career changers are infusing worksites with fresh perspectives, from innovative problem-solving to stronger communication and customer service skills. Their diverse backgrounds help break down traditional hierarchies and encourage a more collaborative, inclusive work environment.

Building a Workforce for the Future

To make the most of this demographic shift, industry leaders are investing in initiatives designed to support and retain new talent. Mentorship programs, flexible training schedules, and family-friendly benefits are being rolled out to make skilled trades careers more accessible and sustainable. Public campaigns and media stories are also working to change public perceptions—showcasing the skilled trades as modern, respected, and full of opportunity. The results are clear. A more diverse workforce is not only filling urgent labor gaps but also making the industry more innovative, safer, and better equipped to meet the evolving demands of infrastructure projects. As the skilled trades adapt to embrace new talent, they are also laying the foundation for a more equitable and resilient future.