Idaho's skilled trades are expected to boom. Can North Idaho keep up?

Idaho’s skilled trades are expected to boom, and North Idaho is working to keep up.

Idaho is projected to boast the second-fastest growth of skilled trade workers in the country over the next decade, according to a report from the Alliance for America’s Skilled Trades. However, North Idaho will need to prepare for the expected demand it could face.

“The skilled labor gap in our industry is coming to a head with a very large segment of our current workforce entering retirement age, leaving a major gap that needs to be filled,” NIBCA President Jessica Cargile said. “These trades are essential for all of our everyday life to function, and it has been some time since the trades were given the importance in the public eye that they deserve.”

Ryan DeMarre, co-owner of North Idaho Custom Builders, says he doesn’t see enough skilled trades in North Idaho.

“We have had extreme difficulty finding and maintaining good carpenters,” DeMarre said. “I feel like we have a need for guys that do high-end custom tile work, as well as more concrete people to do foundations, garage slabs and patios too.”

Those wanting to enter the trades and help fill shortages can look locally for training in their interests. North Idaho College’s Workforce Training Center had an overall apprenticeship completion rate of 90.2%, according to NIBCA.

“We're very fortunate in North Idaho that some of our higher education institutions were on the forefront of anticipating this need,” John Young, the president of Young Construction Group, said. “North Idaho College and the Workforce Training Center out at Post Falls have done a great job working with the Idaho State Workforce Development Council and utilizing grants to promote training of skilled construction force employees.”

Buildings will always have to be constructed. Working in the trades offers people secure employment.

“As many industries turn to AI to increase productivity and eliminate certain jobs, the construction industry offers a strong opportunity for career stability,” Cargile said. “Making careers in the trades is an excellent option for those seeking long-term job security and in-demand skills.”

The trades also offer a solid starting point for young people looking to make a living. In Idaho, workers can expect an average annual salary of $58,000 to $64,000, according to the National Association of Home Builders.

“Oftentimes, the starting wage in the commercial construction industry is about $50,000 annually with full benefits, which is a pretty good place to start if you're in your early 20s,” Young said.

North Idaho may not currently have an abundance of skilled trade workers, but the region is doing what it can to prepare for and keep up with the state’s projected growth.

“There is a growing need for skilled workers to keep up with demand and help control the overall cost of housing,” Cargile said. “Labor is a significant expense, and replenishing the workforce as experienced workers are retiring can help address labor shortages and keep housing costs down.”

    North Idaho Building Contractors Association President Jessica Cargile.