Construction projects across the state are booming, but contractors say finding enough skilled laborers to fill positions is a chronic challenge. The workforce shortages often cause project delays and increased costs — issues that have motivated officials to propose a fix in Albuquerque.
The Apprenticeship Empowerment ordinance would require contractors to dedicate 15% of a job’s labor hours to apprenticeships on city construction projects that cost more than $1 million. Contractors that voluntarily commit to 25%, would receive a preference in the bidding process for city construction projects.
“We’ve been looking for ways to increase job training and job pathways,” City Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn said. “We know that one of the major problems that we have in our city is a lack of pathways out of poverty.”
She’s the co-sponsor of the bill with City Councilor Dan Champine. Fiebelkorn said the idea of increasing apprenticeships is one that kept rising to the top of a list of viable options.