Construction workers are the happiest in the nation, according to a new study. With plentiful opportunities, job security and high wages helping to drive results. The construction industry has seen a steady increase in happiness since 2020.
These results come as overall happiness for other industries dropped to the lowest level in years in what is being referred to as the Great Gloom.
So what makes the construction industry different? For those in the industry, the No. 1 happiness ranking may not be a surprise. Talk to almost any construction professional and they will rave about their career choice and the personal satisfaction that comes with helping to build America.
Study results
Recent historic events and ongoing trends showed why the construction industry landed the top happiness spot.
- Construction is not only the happiest industry, but also one of the least volatile with workers satisfaction staying consistent from month to month.
- Hourly construction wages at a 40-year high, with today’s median hourly wage at $17.58 but as high as $28.58.
- A skyrocketing need for construction work after the collapse of the global supply chains led to the manufacturing industry investing in new facilities.
- The Bipartisan Infrastructure Act is infusing a $550 billion investment to build critical infrastructure projects around the country. At the same time, stimulus projects like the CARES Act and the American Rescue Plan infused trillions of dollars into the economy, allowing funds for people to allocate to construction projects – boosting contractors optimism.
- Happiness peaked in 2020, despite uncertainties caused by the global covid pandemic, as residential construction projects boomed, and construction material shortages created stability as the backlog of projects increased. This created job security for workers in the industry.
- Happiness has tapered slightly for construction workers since its peak but currently holds steady, well above all other industries.
- There are seasonal patterns of happiness for the construction industry, with lower scores around the fall and rising happiness as the year ends.
5 factors that drive happiness in construction
Job satisfaction can vary depending on individual preferences, job roles, and workplace conditions. However, there are many common factors in the industry that contribute to the overall happiness reported by many in the construction field.
1. Visible progress and tangible results
One of the most rewarding aspects of construction work is the tangible progress they see daily. Construction sites transform from empty lots to functional structures, and this visible transformation provides a sense of accomplishment and purpose.
2. Teamwork and camaraderie
Construction projects are typically team efforts that require close collaboration among workers. The strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork on construction sites fosters positive relationships among colleagues, contributing to job satisfaction.
3. Competitive compensation
Many construction workers enjoy competitive pay and benefits packages. This financial security can significantly contribute to their overall job satisfaction and happiness.
4. Diverse job roles
The construction industry offers a wide range of job roles, from carpenters and electricians to project managers and engineers. This diversity allows workers to explore various career paths and find roles that align with their interests and skills.
5. Technology innovations
The construction industry is at a transformative crossroads, offering a world of opportunity to the next generation of workers. With cutting-edge technology and innovation sweeping through every aspect of the field.
Building the future
While the industry has high levels of satisfaction now, the study did show that the continuing labor shortage could impact happiness levels as it puts stress on the current workers.
“Human resources professionals should focus on refining their recruitment strategies and training programs to prepare for an influx of less experienced workers,” the study recommends.
This study helps to show why the construction industry is one of the best career paths, offering not only high wages and opportunities – but happiness. As labor shortages continue and companies seek new ways to reach the next generation of workers, this study is another reminder of why a career in construction should be considered by everyone looking to build a great life.
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