Artisan development in the AEC industry: strategies for attracting, transitioning and retaining workers

This paper investigates the prospects for artisan development in South Africa’s Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. Despite the vital economic contributions of this industry, attracting new entrants, aiding their transition into the workforce, and retaining skilled artisans remain significant challenges. The research focuses on strategies for addressing these issues, specifically within the context of South Africa’s Institute for National Development of Learnerships, Employment Skills, and Labour Assessments. A critical literature review and qualitative interviews with key stakeholders revealed insights into existing policy implementation, the quality and relevance of training programmes, and the recognition of artisans’ prior learning. The research findings underscore the urgent need for robust and inclusive skills development strategies, recognizing prior learning as a key intervention and improved advocacy for artisan professions. Establishing clear targets, enhancing digitization processes, and strengthening institutional roles are vital steps towards addressing artisans’ skill shortages in South Africa’s AEC industry.