Our workforce is built on the skills of skilled trades. This is a concept I have previously written about. It focuses on how leaders can support careers at the grassroots level to attract new generations of carpenters and electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians and builders. What happens next? What role does technology play in the future development of an industry that is historically slower to adapt?
We are witnessing several trends in 2022 where trades make use of tech to be more productive, efficient, and forward-thinking. These are just five areas you should be aware of.
1. Supply chain
When we are in the middle of a supply-chain crisis, inventory management is even more critical than ever. This was evident in the 2021 summer, the hottest in Lower 48 history. Many stores had to close during the pandemic, and their air conditioners weren’t maintained for long periods. Record numbers of service requests were received. As supply chain problems became more severe, HVAC parts were in great demand. The companies that had the most advanced inventory management technology did better than the ones with old systems. Even those with the best inventory management technology felt the strain. Since the pandemic, we’ve seen more mid-level plumbing, janitorial and HVAC companies invest in cloud-based inventory management software.
It is crucial to use cloud-based technology for inventory analysis. Understanding which parts are from overseas and which materials can be sourced in the U.S. will help companies avoid future loss of revenue and reduce disgruntled customers.
2. Rapid Completion
Many surprises can be found when skilled tradespeople arrive at service calls. Even a simple job can quickly become complicated and requires more expertise. Tradespeople have access to an extensive network of experts via video technology that allows them to solve complex jobs and answer questions onsite. These benefits can be measured by lowering the number of visits to one job site.
Job communication has changed from the commercial client to the individual homeowner. Technology has made it easier to communicate with technicians via SMS and GPS technology. Employees can take photos and videos of their work to send to owners or managers after the job is done. Trades incorporate tech in every aspect of their businesses, from start to finish.
Bookkeeping was not a strength in trades. Tradespeople are now able to accept payment over the phone. They can also sync with accounting software and improve their cash flow.
3. Marketing, Recruiting, and Education
Skilled trades are having difficulty recruiting the next generation as baby boomers age. The Associated Builders and Contractors estimates that the construction industry will require nearly 650,000 more workers to meet the 2022 workforce demand.
Employers are using social media influencers to recruit job seekers. They highlight the many opportunities in the trade sector to make a living, receive affordable training online, and have a lower barrier to entry than other industries that require a 4-year degree. Already, we are seeing evidence that skilled trades can appeal to younger audiences through engaging content.
Television shows show how to renovate homes that require new electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. A celebrity on Instagram can amaze viewers with their tile skills. You have endless opportunities to promote exceptional tech talent and shine a positive light upon the industry. Eduardo Lopez, a construction contractor, has 2.2 million followers on TikTok. Shannon Yodice, a tile expert, has 141k Instagram followers. Matt Panella, a third-generation carpenter, has 240k subscribers to YouTube.
Some plumbers used to call their business AAA Plumbing so that they would appear first in the Yellow Pages alphabetical listing. Online reviews, organic search results, and paid digital advertising are crucial to attracting customers in a cost-effective and targeted manner.
4. Service providers
Online tools are available for residential and commercial customers to check if the service provider is licensed or insured. Customers should be concerned about this exposure as the potential for liability and risk can be overwhelming. Customers used to rely on the honor system, marketing taglines, or a seal on websites for assurance. They can now digitally verify the credentials of a provider by corroborating claims using third-party resources.
5. Next Level
While robots are not yet able to fix a toilet, technology can help skilled tradespeople in innovative and creative ways. Roofers are using drones to increase their work hours. Artificial intelligence technology can improve safety in repetitive jobs. Virtual reality simulations can be used to aid in practical and safe training. Robotics is far from taking over jobs that require creativity, talent, and a variety of skills. This is an area worth watching as the “next-level” technology makes trade safer, more efficient, and faster.
