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If you’ve needed any home repairs lately, then you might know how difficult it is to get a handyman. This is a common scenario, and it’s going from bad to worse.

You need a craftsman to fix your sinks, broken appliances, and light fixtures. But there aren’t enough handymen, whether for home repairs or companies.

This shortage has increased the cost of hiring, delaying the completion of repair and maintenance tasks. It has also become difficult to find reliable and qualified hands.

Let’s dive in and see what is causing this shortage of tradesmen.

Factors Contributing to The Shortage of Tradesman

The reasons for this shortage are multi-dimensional.

Economic Factors

Low wages and rising inflation make the skill trade unprofitable. That’s why many craftsmen are changing careers, and newer ones are getting discouraged.

In the same way, there’s no job security because of the freelance nature of the job. And so they need clients to earn money. They also have limited opportunities for career growth, so there’s no promotion, so to speak.

Changing Demographics

The older tradesmen are aging and retiring, and this is fueling this shortage.

Besides this, urban expansion and global growth are increasing the number of buildings and the need for craftsmen.

Same as the decline in vocational studies and the preference for college and university. The chief cause of this shortage of skilled trade workers is the need for more interest by the younger generation.

 Also Read: A Paradigm Shift to Overeducation

 Cultural Factors

Many people don’t appreciate the talents and hard work of skilled workers, and there’s a stigma often associated with blue-collar jobs.

This makes the job unfulfilling, and fewer people want to pursue careers in these fields.

There’s also a common perception that they are not reliable or professional. This could be because of bad experiences with unqualified or inexperienced skilled workers.

Lack of Training and Apprenticeship Programs

Apprenticeship programs are less common than they used to be. This is because of less interest and the corresponding decrease in skilled trade programs. It limits the access that the few newcomers have to training and certification. Moreso, there needs to be more support for those gaining new trade skills or for up-scaling.

Effects of the shortage of tradesmen

Like in every sector where demand is higher than supply, there are implications.

Impact on Individuals and Households

It’s frustrating when you need urgent home repairs but can’t get hold of a handyman. This can cause further damage to what needs repair, and it can affect the functionality and value of the property.

Similarly, it can cause a threat to the safety of the household because of a lack of required maintenance and repairs.

In addition, this shortage of tradesmen increases the financial burden because of the rise in the cost of hiring.

Impact on Businesses and the Economy

Delays in repairs can contribute to a loss of productivity and efficiency in businesses. If a workplace cannot get the repairs it needs, it will cause a loss of time and inactivity for workers.

Also, industries that depend on skilled workers are struggling to find hands, and this affects these businesses. As a result, it impacts the housing market and the construction and maintenance industries. Infrastructure and equipment are not left out; their functionality and longevity can be at risk.

Potential Solutions to Shortage of Tradesmen

This shortage of skilled workers needs urgent attention, and these solutions might help.

Attract New Talent

Young people need encouragement to pursue careers in this industry. And they can mostly be persuaded if they see the benefits and rewards that come from it. Showcasing success stories will motivate them.

Support Existing Skilled Workers

Craftsmen have to earn reasonable wages and benefits to remain in the trade business. It will increase entrance into the field and make it more attractive. Besides this, there should be provisions for upskilling and professional development. This will increase their productivity and job satisfaction.

Vocational Studies and Mixed-School Programs

Skill-trades-related curricula can be taught in schools to help reduce skill gaps and make the field more professional.

In the same way, vocational education and apprenticeship programs need to be encouraged. This will help build a new generation of craftsmen to reduce the shortage. Switzerland and Germany have successfully adopted the mixed school system. 

Mentorship programs will also be beneficial to new talents to enhance their skills and efficiency.

Also Read: How to Choose the Right Vocational Skill: An Effective Guide

Streamline the Certification and Licensing Process

The skilled trades industry needs more organization; without this, the industry will remain undervalued. Standardizing and simplifying the requirements for becoming a skilled worker can change this.

 However, the requirements and certifications must be accessible with affordable options. This will enhance the recognition of tradesmen and make the sector more professional.

The Role of Technology

Technology has made life better, and it can do the same for the shortage of skilled men. Clients can use online platforms to connect with artisans. This will reduce delays and help ease the effects of the shortage.

Tradesmen can also use technology to market and promote their services. It will enable them to organize better and reach more clients. Digital tools and resources can equally help improve their abilities.

Also Read: A Beginner’s Introduction to Blockchain Technology

Don’t Blame Your Handyman

The shortage of tradesmen affects homes, offices, society, and the economy. It’s a pressing issue and it needs urgent collaboration between individuals, businesses, and the government. This is how to ensure the availability of craftsmen now and for future generations.