Download PDFOpen PDF in browserBridging the Skills Gap: Stakeholder Perspectives on Construction Workforce Development in Oklahoma10 pages•Published: June 2, 2026AbstractThe growth of the US construction industry is constrained by persistent labor shortages, an aging workforce, and competition for skilled workers across neighboring regions. These challenges are intensified by misconceptions about construction careers, fluctuating economic conditions, and barriers that limit the entry and retention of new workers. In response, the Oklahoma Workforce Commission adopted a sector-based approach to workforce development that emphasizes collaboration among employers, educators, workforce organizations, and policymakers. This study analyzes data from the Commission’s Construction Sector meeting to identify current initiatives, skill gaps, stakeholder perspectives, and actionable recommendations for strengthening the state’s construction workforce pipeline. Findings reveal that employers view soft skills, such as communication, work ethic, and professionalism, as greater deficits than technical competencies, signaling a need for adjustment within construction education programs. Participants also emphasized the importance of early career exposure, stronger partnerships between industry and academia, and active employer participation in program development. Systemic policy barriers, including low-bid procurement, funding instability, and academic counseling biases, were also identified as impediments to workforce growth. The study concludes that coordinated efforts across education, industry, and policy domains are essential for building a resilient and competitive construction workforce in Oklahoma.Keyphrases: construction workforce development, recruitment strategies, skill gaps, soft skills In: Wesley Collins, Anthony Perrenoud and John Posillico (editors). Proceedings of Associated Schools of Construction 62nd Annual International Conference, vol 7, pages 11-20.
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