Evolving Strategies for Managing the Skilled Labor Shortage

Above: CRL’s new glass railing system, Turboflex. Photo by Here And Now Agency. 

Demand for glazing services remains strong across the U.S., even amid economic uncertainty. Commercial construction continues to rely heavily on glass for both performance and design, keeping glaziers in high demand. Yet this sustained growth is colliding with a long-standing industry challenge: a shortage of skilled labor. 

Across the country, glazing contractors are feeling the strain. Some are forced to decline projects or operate with lean crews. In some circumstances, labor constraints contribute to project delays, putting pressure on schedules, budgets and customer relationships. Over time, these issues can erode profitability and impact a company’s reputation in an increasingly competitive marketplace. 

In an environment where labor, time and precision are tightly interconnected, success increasingly depends on efficiency. Companies that find ways to work smarter, leveraging both people and innovation, will be best equipped to thrive in the ever-evolving glazing landscape. 

Develop talent from within instead of relying on external hiring 

One of the most effective ways to address the labor shortage is to invest in internal workforce development. Instead of relying solely on external hiring, contractors are finding success by training and advancing their existing employees. 

Apprenticeship programs remain a foundational approach. Organizations such as the National Glass Association offer structured training that combines classroom instruction with real-world experience. Trade schools and technical programs also provide valuable entry points into the profession, with many companies supporting these efforts through tuition reimbursement or sponsorship agreements. 

In addition to traditional training pathways, digital learning tools are gaining traction. Online platforms allow employees to build knowledge at their own pace while maintaining productivity on the job. When paired with in-house mentorship where experienced glaziers guide newer team members, these resources can significantly accelerate skill development and reduce onboarding time. 

Ultimately, cultivating talent internally not only helps fill immediate gaps but also strengthens long-term workforce stability. 

Leverage technology and equipment to make work easier, safer and more efficient 

New online software technologies are playing an increasingly important role in helping glaziers overcome labor limitations, particularly in office operations. Estimating and design software has become faster, more intuitive and more accurate. These tools enable less experienced staff to generate detailed quotes in a fraction of the time. As a result, companies can respond to more bid opportunities without overextending senior estimators.

Beyond speed, online automation enhances consistency and minimizes costly errors. It also provides precise material requirements, fabrication details, and installation validation, ensuring that projects are set up for success before they even reach the field. In a labor-constrained environment, these efficiencies can make a measurable difference. 

Real-world tools like glass-handling equipment offer practical ways to enhance productivity, often with the added benefit of improving safety. Rolling manipulators and electric vacuum lifters enable smaller crews to handle large, heavy glass lites with greater ease and control. These solutions reduce the risk of injury, prevent material damage, and allow fewer workers to perform tasks that once required larger teams. 

For many glaziers, especially smaller operations, investing in the right equipment enables them to stay competitive, as well as meet project demands and timelines.  

Innovative products can ease labor demands in the field 

Advancements in product design are also helping reshape how glazing work gets done. Manufacturers are increasingly focused on developing systems that simplify installation, reduce required skilled labor, and minimize time on site.

Unitized curtain wall systems are a prime example. By shifting assembly and glazing into a controlled factory environment, these systems significantly reduce field labor requirements and improve installation speed. Similarly, prefabricated storefronts and entrance systems arrive at the jobsite ready to install, eliminating many of the time-consuming steps traditionally performed in the field.  

CRL’s new glass railing system, Turboflex, is an example of a labor-saving product. The railing accommodates a range of glass thicknesses, reducing glass orders, and the panels are secured using a single screw in combination with a torque-limiting tool, reducing installation time. Installers can then fine-tune glass alignment with ±2 degrees of tilt adjustment and ±1/8 inch of height correction. These attributes allow glaziers in the field to complete more work with fewer resources. 

By investing in workforce development, adopting advanced software technologies, utilizing time-saving equipment, and embracing innovative systems, companies can adapt to current challenges while positioning themselves for future growth.