How is Georgia trying to fill construction labor shortage? Via education grants

Major construction projects in metro Atlanta such as headquarters for NCR and the Northside Medical Office tower are proof that local construction continues to grow. But industry leaders say the growth is outpacing the supply of skilled workers.

Tatyana Seals of DeKalb Alternative School, center, gets ready to ascend a roof during the SkillsUSA State Championship, Friday March 23, 2018, at the Georgia International Convention Center, March 23, 2018. (John Amis)

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Looking to turn the tide, the state has invested resources in making sure the next generation is prepared to fill that need. Last year Gov. Nathan Deal launched the Trade Five initiative which is part of a broader strategy called the High-Demand Career Inititiative. The goal is to show the benefits and opportunties of careers in the “skilled trades” of five industries: construction, energy, logistics, manufacturing and telecommunications.

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In conjunction the Hope Career Grant offers full tution at state technical colleges for students preparing for certain occupations — many that pay as much $75,000 after graduation.

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