Lack of Qualified Talent is the Biggest Threat to the Crane Industry

 

Following a year marred by the impact of COVID-19 on new construction and infrastructure projects, the crane industry still anticipates the effects of the pandemic to be its biggest short-term challenge. However, according to a recent survey with over 150 crane professionals conducted by ProSight Specialty Insurance, there’s a bigger risk to the crane industry that could impact its very future.

 

When asked about the most serious safety risks facing the industry, 27% of crane professionals identified lack of talent—particularly among operators—as their biggest concern. Equipment issues (15%) and on-the-job accidents or negligence (13%) rounded out the top three safety risks.

“Lack of qualified talent is a serious concern as this issue presents obvious safety and sustainability risks over the long term,” said Jake Morin, Construction Program Executive at ProSight. “The time for the industry to take action on its talent pipeline is now.” 

Throughout his 20-plus years in construction insurance, Jake has seen the impact that having well-trained, experienced operators could have on reducing claims. That’s why he continually advocates for increased training and safety protocols for operators and other construction professionals. He sees it as an investment in the future that should be balanced with additional recruitment efforts to attract the next generation of engineering talent to the industry.

“Operating a crane requires a tremendous amount of mechanical skill and understanding of numerous engineering principles,” Jake explains. “It can be an incredibly rewarding and enriching career path. We need to come together as an industry to find ways to communicate this value to students and young professionals who otherwise wouldn’t pursue a career in construction.”

Through his proactive approach and depth of experience, Jake knows what it takes for crane companies to compete in a modern world—not only in terms of attracting qualified talent, but in providing the stable support needed to help business thrive. Click here to view our full survey results and to see how ProSight is stepping up for crane professionals today.