As a contractor serving Dallas–Fort Worth for years, we’ve had a front-row seat to the region’s growth. Lately, that growth has brought both opportunity and challenge: it’s been especially hard to find qualified plumbers—as well as electricians, HVAC technicians, and other skilled tradespeople. And we’re not alone—this shortage is reshaping how projects are staffed and delivered across North Texas.

A Metro on the Move

The Dallas–Fort Worth–Arlington metro added 46,800 nonfarm jobs over the past year, one of the fastest gains in the country, with construction growth remaining strong (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Statewide, Texas recorded its sixth straight month of record-high job counts this summer, underscoring continued demand across sectors including construction (Texas Workforce Commission).

That boom is visible everywhere—from new commercial developments in Frisco and Fort Worth to large-scale restoration and retrofit projects after severe weather. But behind the cranes and concrete is a persistent reality: the crews needed to do the work simply aren’t keeping up with demand.

Why Workers Are in Short Supply

• Hiring challenges are widespread. In recent surveys, a large majority of Texas contractors report difficulty filling hourly craft roles, and many cite schedule impacts from those gaps (Associated General Contractors of America – Texas results).
• An aging workforce. Many experienced tradespeople are retiring without enough new entrants training to replace them (noted across AGC and state labor updates).
• Policy headwinds. Local industry leaders estimate recent immigration enforcement has taken roughly 30% of construction labor out of the Metroplex, tightening supply even further (CBS Texas report and CBS Texas interview).
• Awareness and training gaps. For years, high school pathways emphasized four-year degrees over career and technical education, limiting the pipeline into licensed trades.

Local Efforts to Build a Pipeline

The good news: DFW organizations are stepping up. In Fort Worth, a mayor-backed initiative is graduating high schoolers with both diplomas and industry certifications—creating direct routes into in-demand jobs (Axios Dallas / Axios newsletter).

Industry groups are investing too. The TEXO Foundation provides scholarships and outreach to help students enter North Texas construction careers (program overview). The nonprofit CIEF North Texas runs design-build competitions and hands-on workshops that expose teens to real jobsite skills (North Texas Giving Day hub).

Corporate partners are contributing as well. Sam’s Club committed $1.5 million to Dallas-based Big Thought to expand workforce training for young people—part of a broader $3 million initiative (Axios Dallas; Dallas Innovates).

Why It Matters for North Texas

Without enough skilled tradespeople, projects slow down, costs increase, and quality can suffer. In a high-growth region like DFW, that’s more than an inconvenience—it’s a risk to the area’s momentum. The skyline tells one story, but the real story is on the ground: recruiting, training, and retaining the people who keep projects moving.

Our View from the Field

At Finish Line Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP), we see this challenge every day. Meeting North Texas’ demand requires collaboration between contractors, schools, nonprofits, and policymakers—and a renewed focus on career pathways into the trades. If your organization is exploring partnerships, internships, or training-aligned project work, we’re ready to be part of the solution.

Learn more about our work across Dallas–Fort Worth at Finish Line Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP).