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Craft Training by the Numbers: Real Investment, Real Returns

Overview

NCCER is committed to helping construction companies strengthen their bottom line through workforce development. By surveying industry leaders, listening to craft professionals and analyzing real project data, we’ve identified the measurable impact of structured craft training on productivity, safety and retention. What we’ve found is clear: When companies invest in their people, they see significant returns.  

96%

of companies report a positive impact of training on productivity. 

77%

of companies report a positive impact of training on safety. 

84%

percent of companies report a positive impact of training on retention. 

an image of a cover of a research report with a light blue background and the title From Training to Performance: Evaluating the ROI of Craftworker Development sitting above two men in construction hats and vests

2025 From Training to Performance: Evaluating the ROI of Craftworker Development

NCCER has published a comprehensive research report examining the ROI of craftworker training in the construction industry. Based on data from more than 1,400 craftworkers and nearly 200 employers, the study reveals formal training programs convey significant operational benefits, including reduced rework, accelerated proficiency and lower turnover rates. The report offers practical recommendations to help organizations strengthen their workforce development and see improved project outcomes.

Image of a cover for a research paper with title Future-Proofing the Construction Workforce: The Value of Training and Credentials on a white background sitting above an aerial view of four men wearing hard hats looking at papers on a table

2024 Future-Proofing the Construction Workforce: The Value of Training and Credentials

The impacts of industry-wide challenges like the construction workforce shortage are experienced on a daily basis by contractors. Developing craft training is one way to alleviate that pressure. There is increasing evidence that these programs pay off with organizational competitiveness and profitability. This report delves into the value of craft training and the benefits it provides to contractors.

Explore the ROI of Craft Training

worker wearing helmet and high visibility jacket uses tools on a solar panel
Article

A Compelling Case for Construction Craft Training

Research reinforces the real numbers behind training ROI: 11% productivity gains, 14% higher retention, 26% fewer injuries and a 3:1 return on investment. See how the data stacks up. 

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silhouette of construction workers on a job site with a blue sky with clouds in the background
Blog

Construction Industry Trends for 2025

This trend report outlines key challenges for this year, including widespread workforce shortages and leadership gaps—and how strategic training can help address them. Explore the trends that must shape your workforce strategy. 

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Room filled with multiple people and the majority wearing a yellow construction vest, sitting around a long conference table and in front of TV mounted on the wall
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Worley: Investing in People Pays Off

Worley’s commitment to standardized training has helped build a loyal workforce and stronger client relationships. The result? Higher productivity, lower attrition and long-term business growth. Read more to learn how Worley turned training into a competitive edge. 

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See the ROI for Yourself

Ready to implement craft training at your company? Our experienced team can give you the guidance and materials you need to build your own training program.