Work Value Characteristics of Construction Professionals

The construction industry is projected to experience continued employment growth affecting craft workers but professionals as well. Previous studies have identified demographic differences in generational categories and gender as a contributing factor in the recruitment and retention of construction professionals. Survey data collected as part of this study found that there are more significant similarities between the three generations (Baby Boomers, Gen X and Millennials) surveyed than differences. This study used the same work values used to investigate the differences between generations to investigate differences between men and women and found no significant difference among the participants. This study refutes two assumptions that the construction industry seems to prescribe to: (1) there is a significant divide in the work values between generations and (2) significant differences in work values among men and women are in some way contributing to the shortage of construction professionals. Other socio-demographic factors, however, may reveal a misalignment of work values within construction. The methods developed for this study could be used for further investigation into the work values of construction professionals, as well as craft workers.