While much attention has focused on the shortage of engineers, a growing concern is emerging. The civil engineering field is facing a lack of skilled support staff and technicians. At Technical Hires, we’ve heard from our partner employers that CAD technicians, especially those with structural design experience, are increasingly hard to find.
Technician Shortage: A Growing Concern
Joseph W. Kane, a fellow at the Brookings Institution, has been researching the infrastructure workforce crisis. In an ASCE article, he noted, “Like engineers, engineering technicians are vital and essential to broader infrastructure development. These aren’t just entry-level positions that can be filled with just anyone.”
Take CAD design, for example. Although the requirements for becoming a CAD technician are fewer than for a professional engineer (PE), it still takes significant time and training. Building the experience needed to support complex structural designs, such as bridges, is no small task.
High Demand & Urgency
With the influx of projects from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), the shortage of technicians is critical. The National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine predict a shortfall of 3 million skilled technicians for infrastructure work. This figure highlights the scale of the challenge.
Industry Impact: The Limiting Factor
It was once hoped that experienced technicians could help offset the shortage of civil engineers. However, this strategy now seems unlikely. GRAEF CEO John Kissinger, P.E., S.E., M.ASCE, highlighted that the difficulty in finding experienced engineers has already limited his company’s ability to take on certain projects. As a result, they now have to “pick and choose” work due to the lack of available talent.
Searching for Solutions: Flexibility & Investment
In response to this growing challenge, organizations are exploring alternative ways to secure the skills they need. This includes offering more flexible working arrangements. CAD designers, for example, can work remotely. While on-site work is preferable, remote work is a viable option many companies are now considering.
Moreover, companies will need to reassess compensation packages for these roles. Investing more in training the next generation of technicians is essential to ensure a steady pipeline of talent. It’s crucial that technicians are treated as valued team members—an essential step toward solving this pressing workforce issue.
References:
- Need support staff at your civil engineering firm? The shortage is real by Kayt Sukel. Civil Engineering Source (ASCE) 2024. URL: Need support staff at your civil engineering firm? The shortage is real | ASCE
