Fewer Layoffs in 2012, Says Contractors Survey

The year 2012 is starting out right for workers in the construction sector. Based on the survey by the Associated General Contractors of America and Computer Guidance Corp., much fewer construction firms are planning to lay off employees this year than at any time in the last few years.

For much of the industry, that means a stronger demand for retrofits and new construction—good news for contractors, especially those who have already finished their continuing education contractor (or contractor CE).

The survey results, to be included in the 2012 Construction Industry Hiring and Business Outlook, indicate that though the construction outlook is mixed, many contractors are anticipating expansion in bellwether private-sector market segments.

Stephen E. Sandherr, the association's CEO, noted that only 9 percent of the surveyed firms in 2012 are planning to shed manpower this year, compared with 37 percent in 2011 and 55 percent in 2010. Even better, 32 percent of the firms report that they plan to add new people in 2012, half of them saying they are hiring six or more new employees in the next 12 months.

For instance: 57 percent of firms (the highest percentage among all states) in Wisconsin expect to hire new staff this year, while 16 percent of firms (the least among all states) in Virginia plan to add staff in 2012. On the other end, some 18 percent of firms in Missouri plan layoffs this year, the highest percentage of any state; South Carolina reported no layoffs this year.

To help enable contractors to meet the incoming market demand, training providers such as IndustrialInstitute.com provide the continuing education contractor and contractor CE programs that contractors need to renew their licenses.