Show Notes
In this episode, Kirk Westwood talks to Ironworkers General President Eric Dean. They discuss the current state of the union construction industry and how technology has changed construction methods and workforce demands.
With over 40 years of experience, Dean shares his perspectives on the challenges and opportunities faced by the industry, including the retirement of baby boomers and the need for apprenticeship programs to replenish the workforce. He also delves into the concept of the "traveling local" to address the shortage of skilled labor and the importance of collaboration between employers, contractors, and unions to match workers with suitable jobs. Dean emphasizes the need for a blended crew in construction and the role of apprenticeship programs in sustaining strong unions, while acknowledging the challenges of leading a diverse team and adapting to new technology-driven construction methods.
The Construction User 2.0 podcast is brought to you by The Association of Union Constructors (TAUC). Your host, Kirk Westwood, is Director of Marketing for TAUC. Kirk has helped many organizations tell their stories as a photographer, blogger, web-streamer, and consultant. In each episode, we’ll explore the latest labor trends, industry insights, and important issues in the world of construction. Our guests are industry leaders, subject matter experts, and innovative visionaries discussing how we are building the ‘world of tomorrow.’ TAUC is made up of more than 1,800 contractor companies that utilize union labor for their projects, as well as local contractor associations and vendors in the industrial maintenance and construction fields. TAUC’s mission is to act as an advocate for union contractors and enhance cooperation between all parties to achieve the successful completion of construction projects.
Discussion points:
- The last song that was stuck in Eric’s head
- State of the industry
- Technology has revolutionized construction methods, reducing workforce and changing skill demands
- Retirement of baby boomers creates demand for senior positions and workforce replenishment
- Apprenticeship programs essential for training next generation of skilled workers
- The industry faces challenges like member influx and proper training provisions
- ‘Traveling local’ concept helps address skilled labor shortage in the industry
- Union dynamics - democratic election processes and member support
- Employers and contractors - matching workers with suitable jobs
- Blended crews and apprenticeship programs
- Unions must adapt to changing construction landscape and support workers
- Industry must embrace technology-driven methods and market shifts to thrive
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