Md. launches $15M program to jump-start construction hiring

State officials are hoping to jump-start construction hiring in advance of a wave of federal funding for infrastructure projects. Gov. Larry Hogan said Friday that the state’s new $15 million Jobs that Build program comes on the heels of a federal infrastructure bill that will pay for projects around the country. State officials said they are concerned worker shortages could delay those projects in Maryland. “But as is the case with just about every industry right now, contractors are facing unprecedented challenges in finding enough skilled workers,” said Hogan. “These problems are made worse by historic inflation and persistent supply chain issues. This is not a field that offers the kind of remote work and flexibility that is becoming more commonplace after COVID.” Hogan compared the program to an earlier announcement in which he lifted the requirement for four-year college degrees for some state jobs.