Charlotte Faces Construction Worker Shortage Amid $20 Billion Building Boom

Charlotte, North Carolina, is experiencing a construction worker shortage as the city prepares for nearly $20 billion worth of upcoming projects. The Associated Builders and Contractors Carolinas report that the U.S. construction industry needs approximately 350,000 new workers in 2026, with the Carolinas feeling this shortage acutely. Local businesses, such as AEGJ Construction, are stepping in to address the gap. Founded by Ada Esther Gil Jimenez, AEGJ Construction has expanded into commercial projects, including work at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Jimenez noted that finding qualified workers with legal documentation has become increasingly difficult and costly. With about 25% of Charlotte's construction workforce nearing retirement, city leaders emphasize the need for more workers to meet future demands, particularly in rail transit and transportation construction. To combat this issue, Charlotte is investing up to $2.1 million in workforce and small business programs. The city aims to improve coordination between various departments to support small businesses and promote equitable economic development. Additionally, safety concerns have arisen due to the worker shortage, with reported incidents at construction sites increasing by 8% in 2024, a trend linked to workforce inexperience.