Each year, Associated Builders and Contractors releases its Merit Shop Scorecard, ranking the U.S. states for their programs and policies that support the construction workforce.
The Scorecard reviews all 50 states and the District of Columbia on their commitment to the construction industry.
Grading Criteria Categories
The 2023 Building America: The Merit Shop Scorecard considers state programs, laws, policies, and statistics for the yearly rankings, broken into seven categories:
- PLA Mandates
- Prevailing Wage
- Right to Work
- Public-Private Partnerships
- Workforce Development
- Career & Technical Education
- Job Growth Rate
Here are the top 5 states for 2023.
1. Georgia
For the first time ever, Georgia was ranked highest in 2023 for its dedication to workforce development and education. Rising from its spot in third place in 2022, the state shows support for construction through its inclusive policies and high employment rate. This year alone, 99% of Georgia students seeking career and technical education earned a credential and/or continued to a career.
2. Florida
Florida has placed in the top 10 since the creation of The Merit Shop Scorecard in 2015; this year it came in second. Most notably, the state excels in its policy environment, support of open competition, and technical education.
3. Arkansas
Arkansas was ranked third in this year's list. The state was among the top of the list for job growth rate and PLA mandates.
4. Wisconsin
Wisconsin placed fourth among the 50 states and the District of Columbia. The state echoes the likes of Georgia and Florida with its high growth of career and technical education.
5. Indiana
Like Georgia, Indiana had a 99% credential/career rate for its technical education students this year. The state makes the top five for its proactive approach to upskilling, leading to a "sustained, positive job growth rate in construction."
Following the top five states are Iowa, Kentucky, Alabama, Oklahoma, and Mississippi. The bottom five states—in ranking order—include Hawaii, Rhode Island, New York, the District of Columbia, and then Washington in 51st place.