Summary
Montana's construction sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, with over 39,000 jobs reported in 2024, making it the fifth largest employing industry in the state. The sector has grown at a rate of 3.7% annually since 2019, and a significant increase in production has positioned construction as a key driver of Montana's economic development, leading to more than 3,700 projected job openings over the next decade due to retirements and turnover.
This surge in employment opportunities highlights the importance of alternative career pathways, such as registered apprenticeships, which offer direct routes into well-paying construction jobs. The recent certification of Build Montana as a pre-apprenticeship program is a positive step toward enhancing skill development and increasing access to registered apprenticeship opportunities in the construction trades, further supporting the workforce in Montana.
Why this matters for apprenticeships
This story underscores the vital role of registered apprenticeships in addressing the workforce needs of a rapidly growing industry. As the construction sector expands, apprenticeships provide essential 'earn-and-learn' pathways for individuals seeking stable, family-sustaining careers while simultaneously meeting the industry's demand for skilled labor.