The National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) has released its second annual Industry Trends Survey, which reveals employee sentiment around the current state of labor, training, and technology on the jobsite. In 2024, the skilled trades industry can expect the following trends based on this survey data.
Tech Integration Remains King
This year, skilled tradespeople acknowledged the need for technology. When asked what additional skills or knowledge areas they believe are essential for the future success of professionals in their field, the survey found:
- 46.4 percent of respondents identified tech integration as a crucial skill.
- 46 percent noted digital tools will help increase communication methods.
- 28 percent believe technology will help improve accuracy and safety in day-to-day operations (up from 25 percent in 2023).
- 70 percent said they would be interested in trying new, diverse tools on the jobsite (up from 68 percent in 2023).
Skilled Labor Job Shortage Remains a Concern
When asked to predict top challenges at work in 2024, 53 percent of respondents said the shortage of qualified hiring candidates, up from 45 percent the year prior. Additional responses included:
- 39 percent cited lack of knowledge sharing and collaboration on the jobsite (down from 42 percent in 2023).
- 30 percent noted an influx in coworkers retiring (up from 28 percent in 2023).
“Our greatest asset is not the tools we use, but the skilled hands that wield them,” said Jim Pauley, President and CEO. “In 2024, the scarcity of skilled workers will cause organizations to redefine their approach and focus on what matters most. Training is not merely an investment; it is the lifeblood of sustainability, where every worker is not just skilled but empowered to build the bridges to progress.”
Additionally, the shortage will affect how respondents plan to budget in 2024:
- 40 percent of respondents anticipate their organization’s budget will be focused on increased hiring to replace or add jobs.
- 32 percent noted budget will be used to update manual or outdated equipment.
- 24 percent believe it’ll be used to increase training for employees.
Overall, this data remains consistent with the previous year’s data, and emphasizes the continued focus on labor within the industry.
Trainings, Certifications, and Membership Will Elevate the Workforce
Heading into the new year, over half of respondents (51 percent) plan to upskill their roles by taking part in more trainings than they did in 2023, while 42 percent plan to make this same increase in certifications.
When asked to pinpoint the value of certifications, respondents noted the following:
- 52 percent pointed to a higher level of confidence thanks to certifications.
- 49 percent upskilled their career by learning new processes and techniques.
- 35 percent found greater success in hiring/retention with multiple certifications under their belt.
- 32 percent felt safer knowing they understand the tools and process they’re working on.
“Investing in continuous growth isn’t just a strategy; it’s a commitment to excellence. As we dive into the new year, professionals are embracing industry certifications and memberships, forging a path of innovation, resilience, and unparalleled craftsmanship,” said Pauley.
