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Meta and OpenAI Compete for Scarce Skilled Tradespeople

1/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Meta and OpenAI are offering high salaries to attract skilled tradespeople for AI data centers.
The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) reports some local affiliates face projects that require more workers than current membership.
Anirban Basu, chief economist of the Associated Builders and Contractors, says a long-standing shortage of skilled construction workers is worsened by retiring baby boomers.

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Story summary

Meta and OpenAI are offering high salaries to attract skilled tradespeople for AI data centers.
The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) reports some local affiliates face projects that require more workers than current membership.
Anirban Basu, chief economist of the Associated Builders and Contractors, says a long-standing shortage of skilled construction workers is worsened by retiring baby boomers.