Building Frederick’s Future: Careers in Construction and Skilled Trades
By Patty McDonald, PHR, CWDP, Program Manager, Business and Career Services
The Construction and Skilled Trades industry is a driving force in Frederick County, representing one of the region’s largest and most vital sectors with over 11,000 workers engaged in building and maintaining infrastructure, businesses, and homes. As Frederick grows faster than any other County in Maryland, the industry also expects to grow over the next 5 years to meet the development needs. Commercial and residential construction expansion creates careers with multiple entry points, and clear pathways for advancement and competitive wages. Emerging trends in technology, sustainability, and automation are transforming the industry, and the demand for skilled workers continues to rise.
Availability of qualified workers is a significant concern for local employers. The combination of new projects to meet housing and business growth and an ageing workforce means that there’s an opportunity for anyone who is looking for a career pathway that offers growth and stability. This sector is growing, hiring, and offering real opportunities for folks at every level. Training options include traditional classes/courses, on-the-job training, and apprenticeship programs that allow workers to earn while they learn. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance, there are opportunities for workers at all education levels to find a stable career. Even during difficult economic times, electricians, plumbers and HVAC technicians are still essential.
Forget the outdated image of construction as purely manual labor. Today’s construction industry is highly advanced, requiring specialized knowledge in engineering, technology, and project management. Modern construction professionals often work with cutting-edge tools such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), drones, robotics, and data analytics to ensure that designs are smarter and work is safer. Far from being a low-skill occupation, construction careers demand problem-solving abilities, technical proficiency, and collaboration across multiple disciplines. Combined with rising college tuition costs, increased earning potential and job security, this evolution is drawing more attention of the emerging workforce.
While the industry needs to attract new workers, recent data suggests that more younger workers are seeking careers in this dynamic field either as an alternative to traditional postsecondary education or in addition to it. With 30% of the current U.S. construction workers over the age of 50 and approaching retirement, the industry faces a critical talent gap. This means more opportunities, faster advancement, and long-term job security for those entering the field today.
Fast Facts about Frederick County’s Construction/Trades industry:
11,623 workers in Frederick County
Average annual wage - $88,342
Approximate number of businesses: 850
Top 3 skills that employers ask for- Project Management, Lifting Ability, Driving
Gross Regional Product (GRP) 2024 - $1.7B
Frederick County Workforce Services will join the FCBIA Home and Garden Expo on Saturday, March 21, 2026, to help spread the word about careers in the Construction and Trades industry. Come visit our Mobile Career Center for information about opportunities and application assistance to you find your next career move.