Facing the Labour Shortage Challenge

Across New Brunswick, construction companies are working harder than ever to keep up with demand. From new residential builds in Fredericton to commercial expansions in Oromocto and infrastructure upgrades in Lincoln, there is no shortage of opportunity. Yet many projects face the same issue - a shortage of skilled and reliable labour.

This challenge is not unique to the province, but it is one that has real consequences for local businesses. Without enough qualified workers, even well-planned projects can fall behind schedule, increase in cost, and put stress on the entire construction team.

Fortunately, the shortage does not have to mean slowdown. With the right staffing strategy and a trusted partner like WorkforceOne, contractors across Fredericton and surrounding areas are finding new ways to maintain progress, protect quality, and meet deadlines.

Understanding the Skilled Labour Shortage in New Brunswick

New Brunswick’s construction sector has been steadily expanding for years, supported by population growth, government infrastructure investment, and private development. However, this growth has also created a widening gap between labour supply and demand.

Several factors contribute to this shortage. An aging workforce has led to more retirements, while fewer young workers are entering the skilled trades. Some trained professionals have relocated to other provinces in search of higher pay or larger projects. Seasonal changes also affect availability, particularly in regions like Fredericton and Oromocto where weather can limit outdoor work for part of the year.

The result is that contractors are competing for a smaller pool of qualified workers, making it difficult to maintain schedules and control costs. WorkforceOne helps bridge that gap by offering access to a network of trained, WorkSafe-certified construction staff ready to step in when needed.

The Hidden Costs of Project Delays

Every day a project runs late adds pressure to budgets, contracts, and client relationships. Idle equipment, rescheduled inspections, and extended labour costs can quickly erode profitability. In addition, clients often expect precise completion dates, so even minor setbacks can affect reputation and future bids.

The shortage of skilled labour can also lead to burnout among existing staff. When teams are understaffed, productivity drops and mistakes become more common. Over time, this puts stress on supervisors and increases safety risks.

By partnering with WorkforceOne, contractors can avoid these pitfalls. The company provides immediate access to reliable construction workers who can fill staffing gaps, maintain safety standards, and keep projects moving at full pace.

How Professional Staffing Keeps Projects Moving

A professional staffing partner like WorkforceOne does more than fill positions. It acts as a resource that strengthens your entire operation. By maintaining a pool of pre-screened, trained workers across Fredericton, Lincoln, and New Maryland, WorkforceOne ensures you can respond quickly to unexpected labour needs.

If a crew member calls in sick, a large project expands faster than expected, or multiple deadlines overlap, WorkforceOne can deploy replacement or supplemental staff within a short timeframe. This responsiveness keeps productivity levels steady, reducing the risk of downtime and rework.

Because all workers are WorkSafe-certified and equipped with PPE, they can integrate seamlessly into existing crews. That readiness helps contractors maintain consistent safety and quality standards while staying on schedule.

Flexible Staffing Solutions for Modern Construction

Today’s construction industry demands flexibility. Projects vary in size, duration, and complexity, and not every phase requires the same number of workers. Flexible staffing allows contractors to match labour resources to project timelines without committing to permanent hires.

WorkforceOne’s flexible model enables companies to scale their workforce up or down depending on project load. During busy seasons, additional labourers can support site preparation, framing, or concrete work. In slower months, companies can reduce staff without layoffs or long-term payroll strain.

This flexibility is especially valuable for small and mid-sized contractors in Fredericton and Oromocto who need to stay competitive with larger firms. By only paying for labour when it is needed, businesses can manage costs effectively while maintaining full operational control.

Maintaining Quality During Labour Shortages

One of the biggest risks during a labour shortage is the temptation to compromise on quality just to fill positions. Hiring unverified or untrained workers can lead to poor workmanship, safety incidents, and rework that costs time and money.

WorkforceOne eliminates this risk by providing only qualified, safety-trained workers. Each team member understands site procedures, follows WorkSafe NB guidelines, and is equipped with proper gear. The result is consistent performance that aligns with the standards of professional contractors.

This quality-first approach ensures that even during tight labour markets, construction companies can meet client expectations without sacrificing craftsmanship or safety.

Building a More Resilient Workforce

While short-term staffing solutions address immediate needs, long-term success comes from building a resilient and adaptable workforce. WorkforceOne helps contractors do both.

By hiring locally from Fredericton, Oromocto, and surrounding areas, the company supports a strong community of workers who are familiar with regional standards and expectations. These workers often return for multiple projects, creating continuity and trust between crews and supervisors.

Over time, this stability reduces turnover, improves communication, and builds a culture of reliability across the construction sector. WorkforceOne also invests in ongoing training and safety programs to ensure its workers are always prepared for the evolving demands of modern job sites.

The Economic Benefits of Staying on Schedule

Keeping projects on schedule delivers more than convenience - it creates measurable financial benefits. On-time completion reduces overtime pay, avoids penalties, and improves client satisfaction, which can lead to repeat business and referrals.

For developers and contractors working in Fredericton, efficiency is often what sets them apart in competitive bids. By maintaining dependable staffing through WorkforceOne, companies can confidently promise realistic timelines and deliver on them.

This level of reliability strengthens client relationships and helps position businesses for long-term growth. In an industry where reputation drives success, that trust is invaluable.

Real Examples of Success Across New Brunswick

A Fredericton contractor managing a multi-phase housing development faced repeated scheduling setbacks due to unexpected worker shortages. By partnering with WorkforceOne, the company gained consistent access to trained labourers who could step in quickly as needed. Within weeks, project timelines improved, and costs stabilized.

Similarly, a commercial construction firm in Oromocto used WorkforceOne to supplement its team during a large renovation project. The added workers helped complete the job ahead of schedule, saving the client both time and money.

These local success stories show that with the right staffing approach, labour shortages do not have to limit progress.

How to Prepare Your Business for Labour Shortages

While staffing challenges can be unpredictable, there are proactive steps contractors can take to stay ahead:

Build Relationships Early – Partner with a trusted staffing company before you need them. This ensures faster support when challenges arise.
Plan for Seasonal Demand – Review upcoming projects and schedule additional labour in advance for busy periods.
Invest in Safety and Training – Maintain high standards to attract workers who value professionalism and reliability.
Communicate Clearly – Keep your staffing partner informed of changing timelines or project scopes to ensure the right coverage.
Focus on Local Hiring – Supporting local workers builds loyalty and creates a dependable labour pool for future projects.

WorkforceOne helps businesses implement each of these strategies, ensuring long-term efficiency and peace of mind.

Looking Ahead: A Stronger Construction Future for New Brunswick

While the skilled labour shortage poses challenges, it has also encouraged innovation and collaboration across the construction industry. Companies are adopting smarter hiring models, strengthening safety programs, and partnering with trusted staffing firms like WorkforceOne to stay ahead.

The future of construction in New Brunswick depends on these partnerships. By combining local expertise with flexible staffing and rigorous training, WorkforceOne helps ensure that the province’s projects continue to grow stronger — safely, efficiently, and on time.

Labour Shortages Don’t Have to Slow You Down

Every construction project faces obstacles, but a lack of skilled workers should never be one of them. With WorkforceOne, you gain access to a dependable, safety-focused team that keeps your projects moving forward.

For contractors across Fredericton, Oromocto, Lincoln, and New Maryland, the right staffing strategy turns labour shortages into opportunities for growth. WorkforceOne provides the flexibility, reliability, and local commitment needed to build smarter and stay on schedule.

Contact WorkforceOne today to discuss how our skilled construction staffing solutions can help you overcome labour shortages and deliver projects on time and on budget.

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How to Choose the Right Asbestos Abatement Partner for Your Project

December 16, 2025

Why Choosing the Right Asbestos Abatement Partner Matters Renovating, repairing, or demolishing an older building in New Brunswick often comes with hidden risks, asbestos being one of the most serious . For homeowners, contractors, and property managers across Fredericton, Oromocto, Lincoln, New Maryland, and surrounding communities , asbestos can quickly turn a routine project into a complex safety challenge. Selecting the right asbestos abatement partner isn’t just a regulatory requirement, it’s a critical decision that affects worker safety, project timelines, and long-term liability . A qualified abatement provider ensures hazardous materials are handled properly, containment is secure, and all work meets WorkSafeNB and provincial OHS standards . At WorkforceOne, we support asbestos abatement projects across New Brunswick by supplying trained, safety-certified labour and on-site support that helps projects move forward safely, efficiently, and without unnecessary delays. What an Asbestos Abatement Partner Actually Does A professional asbestos abatement partner becomes a specialized part of your project team. Their responsibilities typically include: Identifying asbestos-containing materials Developing compliant work and containment plans Establishing negative air environments and controlled access zones Safely removing and packaging asbestos materials Coordinating waste transport and approved disposal Supporting third-party air testing and clearance Across New Brunswick, many residential, commercial, and institutional buildings still contain asbestos in flooring, insulation, drywall compound, pipe wrap, ceiling tiles, and exterior materials . Because regulations are strict, even small mistakes can lead to exposure risks, failed inspections, or WorkSafeNB stop-work orders . WorkforceOne provides reliable, trained labour support that integrates seamlessly with licensed abatement contractors, helping ensure every phase of the process is handled safely and compliantly. Key Qualities to Look for in an Asbestos Abatement Partner 1. Strong Safety Standards and Compliance Safety should always come first in asbestos abatement. Any partner you work with should follow New Brunswick Occupational Health and Safety regulations, maintain up-to-date training, and use proper PPE and containment systems. At WorkforceOne, our team members are trained to work in regulated environments, follow strict site procedures, and support containment protocols designed to protect workers, occupants, and surrounding areas. 2. Clear Communication and Project Transparency Asbestos abatement requires close coordination with general contractors, property owners, and inspectors. A dependable partner provides: Clear scopes of work Defined timelines Ongoing updates Documented procedures Our team prioritizes communication at every stage, helping ensure everyone understands what’s happening on site, what areas are restricted, and when spaces are safe to re-enter . 3. Local Experience in Fredericton & Surrounding Communities Local knowledge matters. Building materials, construction methods, and seasonal conditions in New Brunswick are unique, especially in older homes and commercial properties throughout the Fredericton area. As a New Brunswick-based workforce provider, WorkforceOne understands the local building stock , common asbestos risks, and regional regulatory expectations. This local insight helps reduce surprises, prevent delays, and keep projects on schedule. 4. Flexible and Scalable Workforce Support Asbestos-related work can range from small residential removals to large-scale demolition or renovation projects . Your abatement partner should be able to scale resources as needed. WorkforceOne offers flexible workforce solutions, including: Short-term and long-term labour support Rapid response staffing Crews sized to match project complexity This flexibility helps contractors adapt quickly when asbestos is discovered unexpectedly. 5. Commitment to Quality and Documentation A reliable asbestos abatement partner ensures every step meets regulatory standards and passes inspection without rework. We emphasize: Proper training and worker screening Consistent quality control Accurate documentation Compliance with waste handling and site protocols This attention to detail reduces risk and protects everyone involved in the project. The Risks of Hiring the Wrong Asbestos Contractor Choosing an unqualified or inexperienced abatement provider can lead to serious consequences, including: Worker and occupant exposure Failed air quality tests WorkSafeNB enforcement actions Project shutdowns Containment breaches and contamination Costly remediation and rework These risks can quickly outweigh any short-term cost savings. Working with qualified professionals, and dependable workforce partners, helps ensure the job is done right the first time. Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Asbestos Abatement Partner Before moving forward, ask potential partners: What asbestos and safety certifications do your workers hold? How do you design and maintain containment systems? Do you follow WorkSafeNB-approved work procedures? How is asbestos waste transported and disposed of? Do you coordinate third-party air testing and clearance? Can you provide examples of similar projects in New Brunswick? Reputable partners welcome these questions, they demonstrate a shared commitment to safety and compliance. How WorkforceOne Supports Asbestos Abatement Projects in New Brunswick WorkforceOne works alongside licensed asbestos abatement contractors by providing trained, dependable labour support tailored to each site’s needs. Our approach includes: Supporting site assessments and preparation Supplying workers trained for regulated environments Assisting with containment setup and controlled access Maintaining site safety standards Adapting staffing levels as project conditions change By focusing on reliability, communication, and safety, we help projects across Fredericton, Oromocto, Lincoln, New Maryland, and beyond stay on track. Supporting a Stronger Safety Culture in New Brunswick Beyond individual projects, WorkforceOne is committed to strengthening workplace safety across the province. By employing local workers, investing in training, and reinforcing best practices, we help raise standards for hazardous material handling in New Brunswick. Many of our team members live and work in the Fredericton region, giving them firsthand knowledge of local construction challenges and a strong commitment to community safety. The Long-Term Value of a Trusted Abatement Partner When you work with reliable abatement and workforce partners, you gain more than project support, you gain peace of mind. Long-term partnerships deliver: Consistent safety and quality Faster project planning Predictable timelines Reduced compliance risk Confidence when asbestos is encountered This stability allows contractors and property owners to take on projects with fewer delays and greater certainty. Choosing the Right Partner Makes Every Project Safer Asbestos abatement is not an area for shortcuts. The right partner brings together safety, experience, communication, and flexibility —ensuring people are protected and projects move forward smoothly. For contractors and property owners throughout Fredericton and New Brunswick , WorkforceOne supports asbestos abatement efforts with dependable labour, safety-focused practices, and a local team you can trust.

How Professional Event Staffing Enhances Guest Experience and Brand Reputation

By Adam Jardine • October 14, 2025

Learn how WorkforceOne’s trained event staff help Fredericton, Oromocto, and New Maryland organizers deliver exceptional guest experiences and build stronger brands.

Stage setup at a concert; a person in white pants stands by equipment under the tent-like structure.

Behind Every Great Event: The Unsung Heroes of Event Staffing