There’s Got To Be A Better Way: What Gen Z Brings To Construction

Thursday, September 24, 2026 from Construction Drive

During a live virtual panel Wednesday, Construction Dive spoke to younger construction pros about launching a career in the sector.

Senior Reporter
Panelists discuss what Gen Z wants from construction during Construction Dive’s virtual event
Panelists discuss what Gen Z wants from construction during Construction Dive’s virtual event on Aug. 26, 2026. Sebastian Obando/Construction Dive

This article includes insights from Construction Dive’s recent live event, “Courting Construction: Recruiting and retaining top talent.” You can watch the full event here.

Long hours and hard work have been traditional badges of honor in construction. Generation Z, however, doesn’t plan to play by the old rules.

Young workers see plenty to like in the construction industry and also room for innovation, Gen Z panelists said in a conversation moderated by Construction Dive Senior Editor Zach Phillips during the “Courting Construction” virtual event Wednesday. For contractors, the arrival and retainment of these young go-getters will be increasingly important as firms face a looming generational handoff.