“The construction industry plays a vital role in our nation’s economy, employing millions of workers. However, it has been facing challenges in recruiting and retaining enough workers to meet the industry’s growing demand for over a decade. A recent report by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) titled “”Building For The Future: Advancing Equal Employment Opportunity in the Construction Industry”” highlights an opportunity for the industry to address this issue.

According to the report, the construction industry will need to bring in over 342,000 new workers by 2024 to meet current demand. Federal infrastructure investments, such as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 and the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, provide a potential solution to hire and diversify the construction workforce.

The EEOC emphasizes that while many construction companies are taking steps to comply with civil rights laws and reduce barriers, discrimination remains a significant obstacle for women and people of color in the industry. The report presents findings based on enforcement experience, witness testimonies, Commission hearings, and academic research.

Key findings from the report include the underrepresentation of women and people of color in the construction industry, discrimination based on sex, race, and national origin, pervasive harassment on worksites, including racial harassment, and the lack of awareness among workers about reporting violations. Retaliation against those who report violations is also a major concern.

The EEOC’s report serves as a valuable resource for understanding the challenges and proposing solutions to promote equal employment opportunities in the construction industry.