The following article appears in the September/October 2026 issue of West Coast Way, which is a publication of the Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce.
At EV Construction, we’ve always believed that while we build facilities, our greatest investment is in people.
For more than 80 years, EV has partnered with clients to construct spaces where people live, learn, heal, work, and gather. From healthcare and manufacturing to education, senior living, and commercial construction, our work shapes communities throughout West Michigan and beyond. Since 1945, our commitment has remained the same: to be Built Around People.
West Michigan continues to grow, bringing new opportunities for businesses, families, and communities. That growth depends on having a skilled workforce capable of building the hospitals, schools, factories, housing, and infrastructure our region needs. Workforce development isn’t just a construction issue. It is an economic development issue.
The construction industry is navigating rapid technological advancements, increasing project complexity, and a significant generational shift in its workforce. Industry projections estimate that approximately 41% of today’s construction workforce will retire by 2031, while hundreds of thousands of new workers will be needed each year to keep pace with demand. As an industry, we have an opportunity and a responsibility to inspire the next generation to see construction as a rewarding career.
At EV, that investment starts early and continues throughout a person’s career. Our annual Future Builders event welcomes the children of our employees, trade partners, and clients to an active project site where they participate in hands-on building, engineering, and safety activities while learning about the many career opportunities available in construction. As careers grow, so do development opportunities. Our Rising Stars program equips emerging leaders at EV with the skills, knowledge, and mentorship needed to grow professionally and help lead the future of our company.
EV employs one of the largest in-house trade forces in West Michigan, with eight self-performed trade divisions. By investing in our craft professionals through mentorship, continuing education, technical certifications, and ongoing safety training, we’re creating rewarding career opportunities while helping ensure the construction industry has the skilled workforce needed for the future.
The future of our industry also depends on attracting a new demographic of workers. Women make up just over 11% of the U.S. construction workforce, but they can contribute significantly to leadership, innovation, and expertise in every facet of the industry. At EV, women represent approximately 23% of our workforce, more than double the national average, and serve in leadership, field operations, project management, finance, marketing, human resources, and many other essential roles.
Our commitment extends beyond our own organization. EV is proud to support the West Michigan Construction Institute through involvement and investment in construction workforce development. We also encourage our employees to continue growing their skills and knowledge by participating in WMCI courses and training opportunities. In addition, EV offers internship opportunities for college students, providing hands-on construction experience.
The buildings we construct will stand for decades, but the people who build them will shape our communities for generations. Solving the workforce challenge isn’t something any one company can do alone. It takes collaboration among employers, educators, trade partners, parents, and community organizations. Together, we aim to inspire the next generation of builders who strengthen our communities and ensure West Michigan continues to thrive.
