Workforce numbers in the construction sector have improved over the past five years according to BC Construction Association’s (BCCA) Construction Industry Stat Pack and BCCA’s annual BC Construction Industry Survey Report. Results from this year’s industry survey suggests highly favourable indicators for those considering a career in British Columbia’s construction industry, but areas of concern were for those who employ them.

The 2024 BC Construction Industry Survey was conducted during the Fall and Winter of 2023-2024. Insight gleaned from a total of 1,854 survey respondents from all seven development regions of the province.

Lack of payment certainty and workforce shortages continue to worry employers with the majority of contractors being regularly paid late for work completed. Many contractors are facing pressure from several sources, including labour shortages, high wages, and stiff competition amongst qualified workers. Seventy-seven per cent of employers report increasing wages in the past year and the average annual wage in B.C.’s construction sector has climbed 21 per cent over five years.

On the workforce front, the survey also shows the construction industry’s skills shortage has improved significantly over the past five years. Although the industry still projects a deficit of 6,600 skilled workers by 2033, it is a substantial improvement from the 26,100-shortfall estimated for 2023 a decade ago.