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Dive Brief:
The rapid expansion of data centers across the U.S. is creating demand for electricians, pipefitters, plumbers, welders and other skilled workers, pushing contractors and other employers to rethink how they recruit, develop and retain talent, executives from Turner Construction, Clayco and DPR Construction said Wednesday during a Construction Dive virtual event.
Employers are expanding beyond traditional pay and benefits to attract workers to large projects, particularly those in remote locations. DPR Construction offers workers participating in its mobility program living allowances, project incentives, mobilization bonuses, travel stipends and increased pay.
Retaining workers requires employers to focus on career development, workplace culture and quality of life as well as compensation, panelists said. Building local pipelines through apprenticeships, trade partners and community relationships will also be critical to meeting long-term labor needs, including the workers needed to operate and maintain facilities after construction is complete.
