Ryan E. Burks
President
RYCARS
RYCARS is a regional commercial roofing general contractor with a client base that includes industries like healthcare, institutional, education and the military. Notable projects include: Nashville Street Wharf; the Mercedes Benz Superdome; Lusher High School; McMain High School; and Alario Center.
What is the biggest challenge facing your industry in this new normal and how are you adapting?
Our industry’s biggest challenge is addressing the labor shortage due to an aging workforce and lack of interest in the construction industry from younger generations. It is extremely difficult to recruit and retain younger people. Construction is not as attractive a career route compared to the tech industry, even though it is a vital economic indicator for the country’s GDP. In an effort to adapt, we have focused on training and development in conjunction with partnering with other companies to share resources.
What changes do you see in your industry in the next year?
The changes in our industry include the continuous development of new, innovative products and equipment to minimize the dire need for a skilled labor workforce.
