Construction workers are scarce for a number of reasons. Many were burned by job losses during the recession and aren’t returning to the industry. Others are turned off by low pay or don’t want to work outside in the Florida heat.

Older workers are retiring and younger people aren’t eager to take their spots. Millennials don’t see construction work as a career path, and shop class is no longer featured in high schools as it used to be.

All this is threatening to derail a surge of new development in Florida as contractors struggle to find qualified workers. It could lead to higher prices and longer buildout times — not only for homes, but for major developments like new retail plazas and condominium high-rises. Even high-profile projects like Tampa Bay Lightning owner Jeff Vinik’s plans to reshape downtown Tampa, and the $953 million in ongoing renovations at Tampa International Airport could be stymied.

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