The Shortage of Skilled Craft Workers in the U.S.

The table compares the basic configuration of Tier 1 vs. Tier 2 workforce strategies and is the baseline for understanding the distinct differences between Tier 1 and Tier 2 requirements. (RS182-1, p. 4, Table 1)

The construction work force can be characterized as two divergent work forces: one that is satisfied with the work and is willing to participate and improve skill levels; and a second that is transient, unsatisfied, and will quickly leave the industry when other opportunities arise. These two work forces have vastly different characteristics and need to be managed accordingly, thus there is a need for two different work force management strategies. (RS182-1, p. vi) 

The construction work force is not as diverse as the population as a whole and the industry is failing to utilize or attract workers such as women and minorities from non-traditional labor pools. (RS182-1, p. 10)

The long-term results of the Strategy Driven (Tier 1 or Tier 2) Workforce Management Strategies involve improving the overall effectiveness of workforce management on a project to the point that it leads to overall improvement in the success of the project. The hypothesized results are shown in Figure below, the Construction Phase Success Index. The Tier I and Tier II Indices are located on the horizontal axis. The conceptual “Success Index” is located on the vertical access. (RS182-1, p. 5)