No single statistic can describe the skilled trades market. Evidence from global, industry and labor-market research points to several connected developments, from rising demand in selected roles to persistent hiring pressure and changing skill requirements.

The Skilled Trades Talent Market Signals 2026 is a research snapshot for HR and workforce leaders in industries that depend on skilled trades. It brings together global labor-market analysis and Randstad research to support workforce planning with role-level and location-specific evidence.

inside this report, you will discover

• market demand: See where hiring demand is increasing across traditional and technology-enabled skilled roles.
• workforce availability: Explore how labor shortages differ across occupations, industries and locations.
• changing roles: Understand how automation and digital technologies are reshaping selected skilled trades.
• planning priorities: Identify the workforce questions external market evidence can help you answer.

External evidence is the starting point. Download the report to understand which market signals matter most for your workforce planning.