College - Author 1
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Department - Author 1
Construction Management Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Construction Management
Date
3-2026
Primary Advisor/Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Scott Kelting, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Construction Management Department
Abstract/Summary
Labor availability has become a major challenge for California’s residential construction industry, especially as immigration policies change and its workforce becomes more unstable. Most past research looks at overall labor statistics and industry trends, but not at how these issues affect construction projects day to day. This qualitative case study looks at how immigration policy and labor conditions affect the daily operations of a residential construction company in California. The research is based on six semi-structured interviews conducted with five superintendents and one executive leader. The results show that immigration-related labor challenges differ by location within California. Participants commonly described issues such as unreliable crews and a shortage of skilled workers. These challenges often cause project delays and increased rework. To manage these challenges, the company started using overtime, and increased supervision and accountability for subcontractors. While immigration policy was not seen as the only cause of labor shortages, it works together with long-term workforce trends and economic pressures to affect construction performance. This study provides project-level insight into how immigration-related labor dynamics influence operational outcomes in California’s housing sector.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cmsp/1039
Poster Board