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14000 Skilled Construction Workers Needed in 2026

Ohio faces a critical shortage of 14,000 skilled construction workers in 2026. Without action, manufacturing, energy, infrastructure, and data center projects will face delays, higher costs, and lost economic momentum.

The biggest barrier? A severe shortage of qualified trade instructors in our high schools, career-technical centers and apprenticeship programs.

To meet this historic demand, ABC members are already investing heavily in solutions. Nationally, ABC members spend $1.5–1.6 billion per year training over 1.3 million workers through apprenticeships and craft training programs. In Ohio, our three chapters are delivering the same commitment locally — partnering with schools, using programs like TechCred, and building a strong pipeline with minimal reliance on new government funding.

We have a simple, affordable solution. We urge you to support these simple fixes:

  • Streamline certification so experienced journeymen can teach part-time or full-time in career-technical schools.
  • Offer temporary and capped tax credits for employers who free up journeymen and other qualified employees during work hours to train in Ohio State Apprenticeship Council (OSAC) approved apprentice programs.

These targeted steps will quickly boost enrollment and the quality of trades education across Ohio.

Result: More skilled workers, fewer project delays, lower costs for taxpayers, and a stronger economy.

ABC of Ohio is promoting apprenticeships and merit shop workforce development. To continue the momentum in our state — pass these workforce incentives this General Assembly.

Best regards,

Griffin Weasel
VP Govt Affairs & Communications, ABC of Ohio

Bryan C. Williams
President, ABC of Ohio

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