Tech Graduates Are Reimagining Construction with Digital Skills

Construction firms are successfully attracting college graduates with skills in computer science and data analysis. These candidates, once focused on careers in tech, are now choosing construction for its job stability, competitive salaries, and growing use of advanced technology.

To meet rising demands and replace an aging workforce, contractors are integrating interactive software and smart solutions into daily operations. SiteMap® is helping lead this shift, aligning construction workflows with the digital capabilities of today’s graduates.

Expanding the Talent Pipeline

Construction companies are actively recruiting students with technical skills. Laura Cosgriff, Construction Technology Coordinator at Lorain County Community College (LCCC) in Elyria, Ohio, shared with Construction Dive  that interest from local contractors has surged. The volume of employer outreach has grown so significantly that she created a standardized email and response system to efficiently connect students with job opportunities.

This spike reflects a national trend. Outreach through platforms like Handshake has grown by 46%, with more internship opportunities and targeted efforts to attract students from computer science and data backgrounds. Employers are seeking candidates who can work with interactive software, manage digital records, and implement smart solutions on job sites.

From Internship to Career: A Tech-Driven Success Story

Barbara Lopez-Santana turned an internship into a full-time role at Moss & Associates in Miami – proof of the strong career pathways available in construction. A graduate of Florida International University, she shifted from architecture to construction management, drawn by the opportunity to apply her organizational skills in a hands-on, fast-paced environment.

Her story reflects a broader trend: construction offers stability, growth, and constant demand. “The simple reason is construction never stops,” she told Construction Dive. For professionals like Lopez-Santana, the industry’s adoption of interactive software, digital records, and smart project solutions – like those offered by SiteMap – makes it a compelling, future-ready career choice.

Why Tech Students Are Choosing Construction

Applications from computer and data science majors to construction roles have doubled in the past year, according to Handshake. Architecture, drafting, and construction management roles also saw a 40% increase in interest – clear signs that tech students are recognizing the value of careers in construction.

The industry now demands skills in virtual design, business analytics, and software development. Matt Rosentreter, Talent Generation Manager at Burns & McDonnell, notes that this diversity of expertise is essential for driving innovation.

Gen Z Powers Construction’s Tech Evolution

Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, is driving digital transformation in construction. Raised in a tech-first world, this generation brings essential skills in software, data, and interactive tools that are reshaping how projects are designed and delivered. From AI-enhanced building information modeling (BIM) to drone-based site monitoring and real-time digital records, Gen Z is introducing construction teams to new innovative solutions.

At the same time, experienced professionals are mentoring these new hires – passing down critical field knowledge while benefiting from their digital fluency. With platforms like SiteMap enabling seamless collaboration and smart solutions, this cross-generational exchange is accelerating innovation across the industry.

Progress on Diversity in Construction

Diversity in construction is improving. As of 2024, women make up 11.2% of the construction workforce, while 6.5% are Black, 2.1% are Asian, and 35.1% are Hispanic.

At Lorain County Community College (LCCC), Laura Cosgriff has observed more women enrolling in construction courses and participating in work-based learning – an essential step toward a more inclusive workforce.

This shift aligns with Gen Z’s values, as younger professionals seek industries that reflect their commitment to equity, innovation, and opportunity.

Building the Future with Innovation and Talent

Construction is emerging as a stable, tech-forward career path – especially as major tech companies reduce headcounts. The industry is actively recruiting students with skills in software, data science, and digital design to meet growing demand and modernize operations.

Matt Rosentreter of Burns & McDonnell emphasizes the value of diverse perspectives in driving innovation. By combining the experience of seasoned professionals with the digital fluency of Gen Z, construction teams are solving problems faster and delivering smarter solutions.

This shift is already producing results. Increased outreach, hands-on internships, and the adoption of interactive tools like SiteMap are drawing a new generation of skilled professionals. These efforts are fueling a new era of growth in construction – enhancing efficiency, safety, and innovation through the digital solutions today’s tech-savvy workforce is eager to embrace.

Why SiteMap® Is a Draw for Tech Talent

SiteMap plays a pivotal role in drawing tech-savvy graduates to construction by transforming traditional jobsite practices into streamlined, digital-first experiences. Its intuitive interface, real-time data integration, and collaborative features align with the expectations of a generation raised on technology. For tech-minded professionals, SiteMap offers more than just a tool – it’s a platform where their skills in software, analytics, and digital design can directly impact project outcomes. By enabling smarter planning, streamlined communication, and data-driven decision-making, SiteMap transforms construction sites into dynamic, tech-enabled environments. This evolution empowers to the new generations to lead innovation in an industry that’s rapidly modernizing.

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