The state’s manufacturing, construction, utility and health care sectors are in serious need of trained workers, but the workforce pipeline is a slow running tap. This isn’t just an employment issue; it’s an economic one. Without a robust influx of skilled labor, businesses stall, projects falter and economic progress crawls. That’s an avoidable consequence.

But there is something we can do about it. Connecticut must decisively and effectively turn on the tap by investing in training, embracing innovation and redefining the narrative around skilled trades.

Recruitment for people into the skilled trades needs expansion and refinement. Companies are leveraging job postings, partnerships with vocational schools and apprenticeship programs to fill positions. The state of Connecticut has initiated innovative strategies, including workforce development boards and collaborations with organizations such as ReadyCT and the Connecticut Business and Industry Association (CBIA). We still need less discussion and more action, and these efforts must go further and faster.

“Training must be accessible and aligned with the rapidly evolving needs of industries and students. Integrating advanced technologies, such as virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI), can revolutionize the training process.”

High schools should actively promote trades as viable career paths, particularly to underrepresented groups. Digital platforms can be used to reach a broader audience, showcasing the lucrative and stable opportunities available in these fields.

Skilled trades offer more than just a livable wage; they are a pathway to financial stability and meaningful careers. These roles often pay well above the state’s median income, especially for workers with certifications or specialized skills. Moreover, these positions often come with robust benefits packages, including health insurance and retirement plans. By emphasizing the financial and professional advantages of these careers, Connecticut can inspire a new generation to pursue skilled trades, to do the jobs that need doing.

The significance of skilled labor extends beyond individual livelihoods. Key sectors such as manufacturing, health care and public safety form the backbone of Connecticut’s economy, contributing significantly to the state’s GDP and fueling broader economic growth. A well-trained workforce ensures these sectors remain competitive and sustainable, driving innovation and fostering community well-being. Without this reservoir of trained skilled labor, the state risks losing its economic edge, faces a decline in needed services and becomes hostile to the people the state wants to attract.

While Connecticut has established programs through technical high schools, community colleges and unions to train workers, modernization is needed. Training must be accessible and aligned with the rapidly evolving needs of industries and students. Integrating advanced technologies, such as virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI), can revolutionize the training process. These tools provide immersive, hands-on learning and allow trainees to practice in simulated environments that mirror real-world scenarios. For instance, VR training systems for welding, painting coatings, skilled nursing and emergency response workers enable skills to be developed safely and efficiently, building confidence and reducing errors on the job.

AI enhances training by personalizing education. Adaptive learning technologies analyze a trainee’s performance and tailor the experience to address individual strengths and weaknesses, improving outcomes by ensuring each participant progresses at their own pace. It supports instructors by giving them new tools and automating routine assessments, making training programs more efficient and effective.

Beyond technical skills, training programs must emphasize soft skills such as communication and teamwork. These competencies are increasingly critical in today’s collaborative work environments, and by integrating them into technical curricula, Connecticut can produce well-rounded professionals equipped to excel in diverse roles and advance their careers. The skilled trades often serve as a launching pad for broader opportunities, enabling workers to transition into supervisory, management or executive positions. With the right foundation, individuals can pursue advanced certifications or shift into related fields such as engineering or project management, further enriching the talent pool.

There are challenges at the outset. Initial costs and resistance to change can slow progress. Overcoming these hurdles requires collaboration among industry leaders, educational institutions and government entities. Pilot programs and case studies demonstrating the effectiveness of innovative approaches can build confidence and encourage broader adoption. The long-term benefits — increased workforce readiness, higher productivity and reduced training costs — far outweigh the initial investment.

This is a time of opportunity for Connecticut with the skill trades. The demand for skilled labor offers a chance to reimagine workforce development and economic strategy. An investment in people and technology will not only address the current labor shortage, but also lay the foundation for sustained economic growth and resilience.

The future of Connecticut’s economy depends on the skilled hands and minds of its workforce; it’s time to dive into this pool of talent not just with studies, but with action.

This Op-Ed was submitted to Hearst Connecticut Media Group and published online at CTInsider.com on March 15, 2025