How pre-engineering helps solve the construction labour crisis

The Summit Steel Buildings’ team has been using a pre-engineered fabrication and construction model for decades; the world is discovering how it can offset labor shortages.

By Darren Sperling

In an industry facing unprecedented workforce challenges, innovative construction methods are emerging as a beacon of hope. With over 300,000 construction workers – representing one-fifth of Canada's construction workforce – set to retire in the coming decade, the sector is staring down a shortage of 80,000 skilled workers [source]. The construction sector is a $165-billion industry that accounts for eight percent of Canada’s GDP and half the unfilled jobs require a skilled tradesperson to fill them [source]. This looming crisis threatens to delay or derail both residential and commercial projects across the country. However, a solution is taking shape in the form of pre-engineered construction, particularly in the commercial sector.

The power of precision: Pre-engineering meets computer-aided design

Pre-engineered construction, particularly the design and supply of steel frame buildings manufactured off-site, has revolutionized how Summit Steel Buildings completes commercial building projects. By combining traditional engineering expertise with cutting-edge AI technology, our method is proving to be more than just an alternative – it's becoming a necessity in addressing the skilled labor shortage.

The pre-engineering process begins long before any physical construction takes place. Computer-assisted design systems create hyper-efficient building plans that calculate precise material requirements. This technological marriage eliminates the guesswork traditionally associated with construction planning, resulting in remarkably low waste levels – just two percent for steel-framed buildings compared to over 22 percent in traditional wood-frame construction.

Efficiency through innovation

The advantages of pre-engineered construction extend far beyond material savings. Components arrive at the construction site pre-cut, pre-drilled, and ready for assembly, dramatically reducing the need for on-site modifications. A streamlined approach means fewer workers can accomplish more in less time, effectively addressing the labor shortage while maintaining project quality and timelines.

"The offsite nature of pre-engineered building installation allows us to maximize our skilled workforce," explains, Darren Sperling, president of Summit Steel Buildings, who has worked with metal building systems for almost 20 years. "Instead of having our experienced workers spending countless hours on repetitive tasks, they can focus on quality control and complex installations that truly require their expertise."

Win-win economic benefits for clients

The financial implications of pre-engineered construction are compelling for both workers and clients. With fewer workers needed on-site, companies can offer more competitive wages to their skilled employees while still reducing overall project costs. This efficiency-driven model creates a sustainable cycle: better-paid workers are more likely to stay in the industry, helping to stabilize the workforce while delivering superior results to clients.

The sustainability factor cannot be overlooked either. With steel being 100% recyclable, any minimal waste generated can be repurposed, contributing to reduced carbon footprints and meeting increasingly stringent environmental regulations.

Using pre-engineering for your construction project is part of the solution

The construction industry stands at a crossroads, with the skilled labor shortage threatening to undermine growth and development. Pre-engineered metal building construction in the commercial sector offers a viable path forward. By embracing this time-tested yet innovative approach, Summit Steel Buildings mitigates the effects of the current labor crisis and continues to emerge stronger, more efficient and better positioned to help our clients.

The beauty of pre-engineering as a solution lies in its immediate applicability and long-term sustainability. While the industry continues to recruit and train new workers, pre-engineered construction provides a way to maintain productivity and meet growing demand with existing resources. It's not just a temporary fix – it's a transformation of how we approach construction, promising a more efficient, sustainable, and profitable future for all stakeholders.

For industrial and commercial buildings, get the long-term durable engineering that stands the test of time while paying less. Get a free quote and complimentary drawings by contacting us online or calling 877-417-8335 to get started.