The results are in—sheet metal contractors, manufacturers, and sheet metal workers are focused on recruitment and looking to broaden their professional development to include management skills and strategies.
Year after year, similar concerns arise among respondents to this survey—recruitment, workload, and pricing. This year was no different in these areas; however, the results yielded a few new concerns, mainly to do with outside parties, such as other subtrades, engineers, and general contractors.
Most reported similar or higher activity in 2023 than in 2022, and the majority expected even higher growth for the coming year. As companies respond to fluctuating labour and recruitment trends, they are looking for training and professional development in a number of areas that can help, including recruitment support, management skills, productivity, and administrative practices.
When asked how they will manage the challenges of 2024, the replies were overwhelmingly supportive of teamwork, strategic planning, and promoting a positive culture from within. Contractors will look to professional development opportunities, productivity-enhancing software, and strategic bidding to keep their business moving in the right direction.
Unsurprisingly, nearly every comment about moving forward referenced leveraging teamwork: “We will face challenges as a unified team,” said one respondent. “We have been anticipating growth and have embraced it.” When we asked contractors how they would handle challenges, a few answers included: “One challenge at a time,” “By working with my team to find solutions and put them into action,” “Continue to promote a positive work environment,” “By relying on and listening to my excellent team,” and “The same way our team does everything: together.”Labour 46%
