The construction world currently has a skills trade shortage of up to 1 million jobs, and it’s 50 years in the making. Even though they have so many benefits, trade jobs just aren’t as cool as they used to be.

For decades, educators and parents have steered their kids away from working with their hands. People don’t see the possibilities a trade job offers and as time has progressed, blue collar has become a dirty word.

As recruiters, we’re in the perfect position to show people that there’s a huge need for these skills, as well as a lucrative career path with a low barrier to entry.

Ultimately, construction jobs are important to the US economy, so we all need to come together to make construction jobs cool again.

How did we end up with this huge skills shortage in construction jobs? What can we do about it as an industry?

In this episode, I’m joined by Director of Franchise Support at HireQuest, Renée Manning and TradeCorp franchise owner, Chris Clyde. They talk about the trade job crisis and how the recruiting industry can solve it.

Guest Bio

Renée Manning is the Director of Franchise Support at HireQuest. She is a director with a demonstrated history of working in the staffing and recruiting industry. Renée is killed in Sales, Contingent Workforce, Staff and Financial Management, Interviewing, and Business Development. She has over 25 years of experience in corporate operations and franchise support engaged with senior level executives, franchise owners, recruiters, account managers and client stakeholders. Connect with Renée Manning on LinkedIn.

Chris Clyde is a TradeCorp franchise owner. TradeCorp specializes in skilled trade staffing in mechanical, electrical and plumbing - and helping skilled tradespeople advance their careers.

About Your Host

Vince Holt is the founder and CEO of Management Recruiters of Mercer Island. With 35+ years industry experience, he is the only MRINetwork team member to win CSAM of the Year, Person of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Awards. In addition to spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren, Vince has raced motorcycles for over 50 years, winning 5 National Championships.

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