Skilled labour shortages A skilled labour is a worker that has unique skills, knowledge, training, and ability in their work. Skilled labourers usually have qualifications obtained from college, university or experiences from apprenticeship. With a large percentage of the skilled workforce reaching retirement age due to an ageing population, it has led to shortages of skilled labourers. This is due to a trend of the younger generation being less inclined to follow up a career in trade and more inclined in choosing other career paths. Within the construction industry, it is vital to have skilled workers to carry out the project to allow for a smooth, quality and productive service, which further forms the basis of a faster growing economy and rising living standards.