Section

Industry

News, trends, and analysis of the trades and services industry, including regulations and market data.

A robotic arm performing precise welding on a complex metal structure, with a human technician observing in the background, symbolizing the intersection of AI and skilled trades.

AI in Skilled Trades: Ethical Oversight for Job Displacement

In a pilot program, an AI-powered robotic arm recently completed a complex welding sequence on a commercial aircraft fuselage 30% faster and with 15% fewer defects than the most experienced human tech

Rick Donovan· May 3· 3 min

Diverse apprentices learning carpentry and electrical skills in a well-lit, modern workshop, symbolizing investment in the future of skilled trades.

BlackRock's $100M Investment Signals Urgent Need for Skilled Trades Apprenticeships

By 2027, the U.S. will need an additional 456,000 workers just to meet demand for construction services. This gap is so vast that corporate giants like BlackRock and Lowe's now pour hundreds of millio

Ben Foster· Apr 28· 3 min

A sophisticated smart home control center interface displaying real-time data on energy management and automation, representing the future of smart home technology.

Smart Home Tech's Growing Role: What CEDIA 2026 Means for Service Providers

Denver hosts the CEDIA Expo/CIX from September 1-4, 2026.

Rick Donovan· Apr 28· 2 min

Skilled tradespeople working on the construction of a large, modern data center, highlighting the human labor required for AI infrastructure development.

AI in trades will create new jobs, but ethical questions loom large.

A single hyperscale data center, essential for AI operations, demands up to 2 million person-hours of skilled labor.

Rick Donovan· Apr 24· 3 min

Split image showing an AI robot arm and a skilled tradesperson working, symbolizing the intersection of technology and manual labor in the future of work.

Lowe's CEO: AI won't replace skilled trades, but training is key.

The U.S. will need approximately 350,000 more construction workers by 2026, a shortfall projected to jump to 456,000 by 2027. This demand grows even as AI dominates headlines about job displacement. A

Ben Foster· Apr 17· 3 min

Diverse students learning welding, carpentry, and electrical skills in a modern vocational training center, highlighting hands-on education and mentorship for skilled trades.

The Skilled Trades Gap Isn't One Problem—It's Three. Here's the Right Fix for Each.

The skilled trades gap is a complex crisis driven by three distinct forces: retiring Baby Boomers, educational stigma against vocational careers, and evolving technological skill demands. Addressing this shortage requires proactive, tailored strategies like apprenticeships, educational partnerships, and upskilling.

Ben Foster· Mar 30· 4 min

An Honest Perry Lieber Review: What Clients Say About the Craftsmanship That Built a 5-Star Reputation

Perry Lieber, a Santa Barbara residential construction consultant, emphasizes a structured approach to managing complex custom home and renovation projects. His consulting focuses on early-stage planning, cross-team coordination, and construction oversight to provide clarity and control for homeowners.

Skilled Trades and AI: Why Hands-On Expertise Is Still Key

Since late 2022, demand for robotics technicians has surged by 107%.

Rick Donovan· May 2· 2 min

Split image contrasting a digital AI interface with a skilled tradesperson working with their hands, symbolizing job security in trades.

AI Won't Master Skilled Trades: Your Hands-On Expertise Is Safe

At just 23, diesel engine repair technician Cale Mouser earns well over six figures.

Rick Donovan· Apr 16· 2 min

Diverse apprentices learning and working together in carpentry, electrical, and plumbing trades on a construction site.

What Are Skilled Trades Apprenticeships and Why Do They Matter?

The number of female apprentices in the U.

Ben Foster· Apr 24· 4 min