Dorsey Hager, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the Columbus/Central Ohio Building and Construction Trades Council, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the region's construction boom, infrastructure investments and workforce development efforts.
Central Ohio's construction industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, with $30 billion worth of projects within a five-mile radius of Intel's new facility. Hager detailed ongoing developments, including Meta's datacenter expansions, Amazon's $10 billion datacenter campus and various other tech-related construction projects. Despite some slowdowns at Intel, Hager emphasized the overall positive impact, noting that 1,200 workers are currently employed at the site, earning good wages and benefits. He stressed the importance of maintaining perspective on the project's long-term benefits for the region.
Discussion then turned to the City of Columbus, which recently approved a $2.5 billion capital budget. Hager praised the capital budget as crucial for addressing infrastructure needs amid rapid growth in the region. He explained that it allocates funds for roads, bridges, police substations, community centers and fire stations. Hager highlighted the planned $300 million municipal courthouse project, which will include a Community Benefits Agreement to ensure local hiring and diversity in the workforce. He commended Mayor Andrew Ginther's vision in preparing the city for future expansion and addressing housing shortages.
Recognizing the need for a skilled workforce to meet growing demand, Hager discussed outreach efforts to attract new talent to the trades. He highlighted recent events, including tours of training facilities and participation in the Ohio State Fair, where various trades showcased hands-on activities to engage young people. Hager emphasized the importance of exposing students and parents to career opportunities in the trades, noting the benefits of apprenticeship programs as a fast track to middle-class wages and benefits.
Listen to the full episode to hear more about Central Ohio's construction boom and workforce development initiatives.