The impact of vocational education on the skilled labor shortage: A study on the construction sector in Ankara province

This study examines the role and impact of vocational and technical education in the construction sector in Turkey from the perspectives of employers, employees, and instructors. The primary aim is to reveal the role of vocational education in supplying qualified intermediate staff in the construction sector and to analyze how the current shortage of skilled labor can be improved through the vocational education system. Based on a qualitative research design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with three stakeholder groups—employers, instructors, and graduates—and the data were analyzed using thematic content analysis.Findings indicate major problems such as the insufficiency of practical training, the mismatch between curricula and sectoral needs, lack of technological equipment, ineffective occupational health and safety training, and the poor field adaptation of graduates. Employers emphasized that while trained personnel possess technical knowledge, they struggle to gain sufficient field experience. Graduates and employees noted that vocational training enhances employment opportunities, but practical shortcomings in the labor market should be better addressed during the education process. In conclusion, vocational education plays a critical role in addressing the shortage of skilled labor in the construction sector. However, aligning education programs with the current demands of the sector, establishing stronger collaborations with industry stakeholders, and increasing the amount of practical training are essential. This research aims to contribute significantly to the literature by thoroughly examining the relationship between vocational education and the construction sector in Turkey.