Dorsey Hager, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the Columbus Central Ohio Building and Construction Trades Council (C/COBCTC), joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the construction boom in Central Ohio, the challenges of workforce recruitment and the federal court ruling potentially impacting federal Project Labor Agreements (PLA).
Central Ohio is experiencing a historic surge in construction projects, including a recently announced $900 million facility by Anduril Industries and a $5 billion electric vehicle plant. Hager detailed how these developments are creating opportunities for workers, with Anduril alone expected to generate 4,000 to 4,500 new jobs. The region's strategic location and existing infrastructure are key factors attracting such investments, he added, promising long-term economic growth and opportunities for local tradespeople.
With the rapid expansion, the demand for skilled labor has increased as well, prompting Hager to emphasize the importance of recruitment and training. He described efforts to engage middle and high school students, offering apprenticeships as a viable path to the middle class. With over $160 billion in ongoing construction projects, the need for a diverse and well-trained workforce is critical. Hager also noted the role of organizing efforts to ensure labor-friendly environments on all projects.
Finally, Hager expressed concern about the impact of the United States Court of Federal Claims (COFC) ruling that the Federal PLA Mandate is unlawful. He said this could impact project efficiency, stressing the need for continued advocacy and support for pro-union candidates. The Columbus City Council's efforts to strengthen fair contracting language and promote Community Benefit Agreements are vital to maintaining a strong labor presence in the region, he said.
Listen to the full episode above to hear more about the construction boom and some of the challenges in Central Ohio.