SC&RF focuses in on workforce development

In 2024, the SC&RF has shifted gears to focus on raising awareness for the industry, developing a Workforce Ambassadors Program and increasing a nation-wide presence.

In 2024, specific task forces within the Foundation will identify the most common career pathways in the industry including crane operator, rigger, OS/OW driver, permitting planner, project manager and tower crane technician.

“After several years of evaluating Lift & Move events, and reviewing surveys and feedback from past hosts, we have identified the need to broaden our scope and have a larger impact on other areas of workforce development,” said Jackie Roskos, director of the SC&RF. “It’s only a piece of a puzzle. We are putting more focus on building out and developing ways to support members who are engaged in their community and increasing our national presence with key audiences such as high school educators and school counselors.”

Raising awareness

The Foundation has been hard at work supporting SC&RA member companies in their efforts to raise industry awareness. The Workforce Ambassador Program recognizes companies involved in raising industry awareness in their local communities. Lift & Move events are also still supported and encouraged. To learn more about hosting a Lift & Move event at your company contact the SC&RF.

This map indicates demand for mobile crane operators, with dark blue designating the highest demand. Learn more at www.myCLMA.com. Map data: Construction Labor Market Analyzer®

“A national organization often cannot address concerns at a community level,” added Roskos. “It comes down to the responsibility of members. The Workforce Ambassador Program was created to support them, and to recognize them.”

Resource creation

In 2024, specific task forces within the Foundation will identify the most common career pathways in the industry including crane operator, rigger, OS/OW driver, permitting planner, project manager and tower crane technician. This information can be used in recruiting, working with schools and internally to establish benchmarks.

Another piece of the puzzle is the research component. Data for the Foundation’s Workforce Study is collected anonymously and is published to benefit industry advocacy efforts, member recruiting programs and to enhance and grow the SC&RF’s ongoing workforce development initiatives. Through the input of members, the Foundation is able to analyze the impact and trickle-down effect of the labor shortage, greatly impacting the U.S. economy.

National presence

This year, SC&RF staff and committees will attend or exhibit at conferences to raise industry awareness and promote career opportunities. Tentative attendance is planned at SkillsUSA, Future Farmers of America, and the Association of School Counselors of America.