A new report from the Marshall University Center for Business and Economic Research (CBER) highlights the powerhouse economic contributions of the West Virginia Building and Construction Trades (WVBCT), which has generated an estimated $8.1 billion total economic impact over the 2022/2023 years.
The study, which examines the wages, benefits and employment supported by West Virginia’s skilled construction workforce, underscores the critical role of union trades in the state’s economy. The report found that WVBCT members worked an average of 17.4 million hours annually, with wages and benefits contributing $2 billion in total labor income.
According to Justin Williams, Director of the Affiliated Construction Trades, the research arm of the WVBCT, the findings reaffirm what industry leaders have long known: skilled tradespeople aren’t just building infrastructure — they’re building West Virginia’s economy.
“When you invest in skilled trades, you invest in West Virginia’s future,” Williams said. “This report confirms that our members do more than show up at a job site. We create real economic impact, support local businesses and ensure every dollar earned is reinvested in our communities.”
Building a Stronger Workforce, Strengthening Communities
Beyond wages, the study found that union-negotiated deductions generate $58.3 million in additional economic activity. These funds support workforce training, safety programs and industry advocacy, helping sustain 366 jobs statewide. These funds help sustain programs like:
- Apprenticeship training centers in South Charleston and Huntington
- Safety and workforce development initiatives in Parkersburg, Wheeling and Scott Depot
- Philanthropic programs supporting veterans and community service efforts
Williams emphasized that these investments set union trades apart, ensuring young workers have career paths, not just jobs.
“Our apprenticeship programs produce the next generation of skilled workers who are debt-free and ready to contribute to their communities,” Williams said. “Unlike other industries where training falls on the worker, we ensure our members have the tools they need to succeed—without raising student loan debt.”
The study also highlights how WVBCT workers represent nearly half of all construction jobs in West Virginia, with 46% of the industry’s workforce coming from union labor. Their impact extends beyond the construction sector, generating growth in retail, healthcare, transportation and professional services. “Through our research and analysis, it is shown that WVBCT members aren’t just workers — they’re a driving force behind economic stability and expansion in West Virginia,” noted Justin Matthews, Senior Research Associate at CBER.
Williams echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the broader implications.
“Every project we take on — from roads and bridges to schools and hospitals — helps move this state forward,” he said. “This study shows that investing in our workforce is the key to growing our economy and keeping West Virginia strong.”
As West Virginia continues to attract significant infrastructure investments, Williams believes that union labor will be key to delivering high-quality projects on time and on budget.
“Whether it’s new energy projects, broadband expansion or commercial development, the demand for skilled labor is only growing,” Williams said. “Now more than ever, West Virginia needs a well-trained workforce ready to build the future.”
