Construction Industry Study Exposes Critical Skills Gaps, With Non-Technical Business Skills Topping Training Needs

Survey of 683 contractors reveals estimating, pricing, and project management lead skills deficits as professionals invest average of $1,005 in professional development to bridge gaps.

Construction Skills Gaps

ST. LOUIS, Mo., United States, 18th Dec 2025 – Contractor Training Center today released the results of its Construction Industry Workforce Study 2025. The study highlights the key skills gaps and professional development needs faced by today’s contractors. Surveying 683 industry professionals from August 15 to September 28, 2025, the study found that non-technical business skills are the most critical deficiency.

The four biggest skill gaps are estimating accuracy (41% of respondents), pricing strategies (33%), project scheduling and management (29%), and bookkeeping (28%). Additionally, many professionals reported gaps in hiring and retaining skilled labor (28%), understanding overhead and job costing (26%), business marketing (24%), and writing contracts and change orders (20%). These results highlight the broad range of non-technical skills needing improvement.

Professional Development Investment

The construction industry is responding with significant investment in professional development. On average, professionals spend $1,005 annually on exam preparation and licensing. This demonstrates a clear understanding that business success depends on more than technical skills. Professionals recognize that addressing these gaps is essential for competitive survival and long-term growth.

The study also revealed training preferences aligned with the identified gaps. Estimating and bidding accuracy tops the list at 45%, followed by project management at 42%. Other high-priority areas include OSHA/safety compliance (35%), job costing and accounting workshops (35%), and trade-specific technical skills (34%). This shows a comprehensive approach to professional development.

Operational Challenges Identified

The skills gaps correspond closely with operational challenges. Material cost fluctuations were cited as the biggest challenge by 35% of respondents, followed by cash flow management concerns at 24%. These findings emphasize that non-technical skills directly impact business performance.

Patrick Hayes, General Manager at Contractor Training Center, said, “Our experience over 30+ years shows that the biggest barrier to success is not technical skill—it’s business fundamentals. Contractors who cannot estimate jobs accurately or manage finances struggle, regardless of craftsmanship. That is why our training now includes business skills development alongside licensing.”

Industry Training Insights

“These findings validate what we’ve seen across 30+ years of training construction professionals,” said Patrick Hayes, General Manager at Contractor Training Center, by Colibri. “The biggest barrier to business success isn’t technical competency—it’s business fundamentals. Contractors who can’t accurately estimate jobs or manage project finances struggle regardless of their craftsmanship quality. That’s why we’ve expanded our training beyond licensing to include business skills development, recognizing the industry’s evolving educational needs”.

About Contractor Training Center

Contractor Training Center, part of Colibri Group, provides comprehensive exam preparation and continuing education for construction professionals seeking licensure and career advancement. With more than 30 years of experience, CTC has helped over 30,000 professionals in construction, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and more achieve their licensing goals. The company serves professionals across multiple states with courses covering NASCLA, ICC, and state-specific licensing requirements.

Contact:

Karen Veliz, on behalf of Contractor Training Center

Email: Karen@axonomy.io

Company Details

Organization: Contractor Training Center

Contact Person: Karen Veliz

Website: https://contractortrainingcenter.com/

Email: karen@axonomy.io

Country: United States

Release Id: 18122539263