Identifying and Prioritizing the Fundamental Factors that Lead to Inaccurate Perceptions of the Construction Industry

Abstract

The shortage of skilled workers that the construction industry is currently experiencing can be attributed to the fact that the public perception of construction careers is not positive. This study describes the perceptions of Hispanic 11th grade students toward the construction industry based on elements such as demographics, family unit impact on decision making, and information sources for decision making. In particular, this study identifies and prioritizes barriers that prevent a student from pursuing a career in the construction industry. A survey was administered to Hispanic high school juniors attending public high schools in five cities in Texas. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. It was found that “Low Wages” is the main perceived barrier that prevents students from pursuing careers in the construction industry. In addition, the study proposed efforts that would be effective in overcoming the perceived obstacles and increasing the awareness of construction careers.