U.S. skilled trades demand grows 3x faster than professional roles, study finds

New research from talent company Randstad found that U.S. demand for skilled trades workers grew three times faster than demand for professional roles between 2022 and 2026. 

The big picture: The findings reflect the buildout of data centers and energy infrastructure to power the nation’s AI boom. 

By the numbers: Demand for HVAC engineers rose nearly 78 percent over the four-year period, while demand for general trades, including electricians, grew by an average of 30 percent, “significantly higher than the broader market,” according to the study, which is based on an analysis of over 150 million U.S. job postings. 

Zoom in: “It is now more difficult and time-consuming to hire an HVAC professional and electrician than a software developer,” the company noted, adding that the average time-to-hire for a skilled trades worker has reached 56 days, surpassing the 54-day average for desk-based professionals. 

What they’re saying: “AI can’t build data centers, upgrade power grids, or maintain its own infrastructure,” Greg Dyers, CCO of Randstad North America, said in a statement. 

• “Because the demand for skilled trades is evolving into highly specialized, digital-first work, leaders must reposition skilled trades as a top-tier career track,” he added, “[and] prioritize investments in education, upskilling, and training, or the AI-fueled growth we seek will stall.”