A high priority industry, construction and its trades is essential for economic growth and flourishing communities, employing necessary skilled trades like plumbing, electric, masonry or carpentry. The sector offers steady work, sustainable wages, benefits and long-lasting career opportunities.

Amazon will bring not one, but two, fulfillment centers to Berks County, adding about 1.6 million square feet of logistics space and likely hiring more than 1,000 workers, according to Berks County economic development officials.

A report on the outlook of Lehigh Valley businesses showed a dramatic drop in hiring over the last six months, even as they ramped up purchasing orders in anticipation of new tariff impacts.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported earlier this year that are now more open jobs than people seeking work in nearly every industry. Some industries have been hit harder than others. In particular, there are shortages impacting skilled positions, such as machinists, operators, engineers and especially craft workers.

The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry released its employment data report for October, which showed Pennsylvania’s unemployment rate was up two-tenths of a percentage point from September to 4.2 percent.

The strong economy has been making it difficult for businesses that need qualified and skilled technical workers. And while some established workforce initiatives with a long-range focus are paying off, other efforts are underway to match workers’ skills with specific jobs in the shorter term, several observers said in recent interviews.