Building workforce solutions for 2026

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Retirements, workforce perceptions and immigration policy could shape labor availability for construction contractors in 2026. 

As Minnesota’s construction industry looks ahead to the remaining months of 2026 with growing concern about the availability of skilled labor, the Contractors Association of Minnesota (CAM) is helping contractors prepare for the workforce demands that lie ahead. As contractors plan for future demand, a combination of workforce retirements, reduced interest from younger workers and immigration-related challenges could affect project timelines, budgets and long-term industry stability. 

Minnesota contractors are facing several workforce pressures at once, including experienced tradespeople nearing retirement, fewer young people entering construction and immigration-related uncertainty that could affect labor availability. Together, these factors may create challenges for project timelines, budgets and long-term stability, but CAM is approaching the issue with a solutions-focused strategy designed to strengthen the industry from within. 

Rather than simply reacting to labor shortages, CAM is encouraging contractors to take an active role in building the next generation of skilled workers. That includes increasing career awareness, supporting stronger vocational training pathways and helping more students understand the wages, stability and rewarding career opportunities available in the trades. By reframing construction as a viable and meaningful career path, CAM is working to help contractors connect with young people before they choose a different direction. 

In response, CAM is encouraging workforce-focused strategies that give contractors practical ways to strengthen their teams and plan for future demand. Those efforts include career awareness, stronger vocational training, employee development and broader adoption of technology, all aimed at helping contractors attract new workers, support existing employees and improve long-term stability across Minnesota’s construction industry. 

CAM has also created a Labor Advocacy Group focused on labor demand and workforce access. Its mission is to stabilize and strengthen Minnesota’s construction industry by expanding lawful workforce access through collaboration among contractors, workers, trade associations and government agencies. 

Together, these efforts position CAM as an active partner for contractors navigating workforce change. By focusing on education, advocacy and collaboration, CAM is helping Minnesota’s construction industry move toward 2026 with practical tools, renewed momentum and a stronger foundation for the future. 

Learn more about the Contractors Association of Minnesota and its work to support the state’s construction workforce!