Leadership Resources

2025 BRHB Guide to the Trades: Salaries & Skills

Commonwealth Contractors consulted with BRHBA to develop a local "Guide to the Trades". Through this collaboration, we have outlined the key personality traits, skills and pay expectations of each trade.

Investing in the Future: Supporting Workforce Development in the Building Industry

At Commonwealth Contractors, we recognize that the future of the construction industry depends on a strong, skilled workforce. That’s why we proudly support workforce development initiatives in partnership with organizations like the Blue Ridge Home Builders Association (BRHBA). By providing educational opportunities, training programs, and career pathways, we help ensure that the next generation of builders, tradespeople, and construction professionals are prepared for success.

Addressing the Skilled Labor Shortage

The construction industry is facing a critical shortage of skilled labor, with many contractors struggling to find qualified workers. This issue isn’t just about filling jobs—it’s about ensuring that our communities have the workforce necessary to build and maintain the homes, businesses, and infrastructure that support economic growth.

BRHBA’s Workforce Development Program aims to bridge this gap by:

  • Promoting careers in skilled trades to students and young professionals.
  • Providing training and certification programs in high-demand fields like carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and HVAC.
  • Connecting employers with qualified job seekers through local partnerships.

Local Construction Salaries: Competitive Pay & Growth Opportunities

One of the biggest misconceptions about construction careers is that they don’t offer financial stability. In reality, trades and construction jobs provide excellent pay, strong benefits, and long-term career growth—often without the burden of student loan debt.

Here’s a look at some of the average salaries for key construction-related positions in the Blue Ridge region, as reported by BRHBA:

Job Title 2010 Pay 2024 Pay
Carpenter$43,410$58,600
Electrician$52,720$75,780
Plumber$52,390$64,400

These figures highlight the fact that construction careers are both stable and rewarding. With the right training and experience, skilled tradespeople can achieve high earnings and job security while contributing to the development of their communities.

Commonwealth Contractors: Supporting the Next Generation of Builders

At Commonwealth Contractors, we believe that mentorship and hands-on experience are key to developing a strong workforce. That’s why we actively:

  • Support BRHBA’s Workforce Development Program through sponsorships and training initiatives.
  • Provide apprenticeship and mentorship opportunities for aspiring tradespeople.
  • Advocate for career and technical education (CTE) programs in local schools.

By investing in workforce development, we’re not only helping individuals build lasting careers—we’re also ensuring that our industry remains strong and sustainable for years to come.

Join Us in Strengthening the Construction Industry

The future of homebuilding and renovation depends on a skilled and dedicated workforce. Whether you’re a student considering a career in construction, a business looking to hire skilled workers, or a homeowner who values quality craftsmanship, supporting workforce development benefits us all.

At Commonwealth Contractors, we’re proud to be part of the solution. By working together with BRHBA and other local organizations, we can build a stronger, more sustainable construction industry—one skilled professional at a time.

Want to learn more about career opportunities or how to get involved? Contact Commonwealth Contractors today or visit BRHBA’s Workforce Development page to explore training programs and local salary data.

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