Challenges and Opportunities in the Trades with Top South Australian Builders

The construction industry is facing a growing labor and skill shortage, making it harder than ever to find and retain skilled tradespeople. In this episode, we sit down with James Turner (J Turner Constructions), Zak Johnson (ZJ Building), and Luke Doecke (Saxony Building) to explore how builders are overcoming these challenges.

Our guests share their experiences hiring both young apprentices and mature-age workers, emphasizing the importance of passion, drive, and the right attitude in the trade. We also discuss innovative ways to attract the next generation, the impact of major infrastructure projects on labor availability, and the critical role of business culture in retention.

Beyond workforce challenges, the conversation delves into financial management in construction, the importance of a supportive business community, and why early education in trades is essential for the industry's future. If you're a builder looking to build a stronger, more resilient team, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice.

00:00 - Introduction to labor and skill shortages
00:21 - Challenges in hiring young apprentices
01:00 - Mature age apprentices: a viable solution?
02:22 - Struggles with finding skilled carpenters
03:29 - Impact of major infrastructure projects
04:21 - Attitude and passion in the trade
07:50 - The importance of business culture
08:59 - Early exporues to trades for youth
17:44 - Navigating financing for building projects
28:43 - Advice for aspiring builders
31:23 - Conclusion

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