3D construction printing: a solution to the shortage of skilled workers in construction
- thomasliebhardt
- 3 hours ago
- 3 min read
Coming soon – this is what you can expect in this blog post:
3D construction printing significantly reduces the need for personnel on sites.
Digital processes replace physically demanding activities.
This makes construction companies more attractive to young skilled workers.
PERI 3D Construction offers training courses for easy entry.
Why is the shortage of skilled workers in the construction industry a problem?
The German construction industry is under pressure: According to the DIHK Skilled Worker Report 2024/25, over 50% of construction companies report that they can no longer fill vacancies. By 2030, one in four skilled workers will retire – while at the same time, demand for affordable housing continues to rise.
But many young people avoid traditional construction jobs: they're perceived as physically demanding, analog, and lacking in future-proof skills. The result: productivity stagnates, projects are delayed, and construction costs rise.
How exactly does 3D Construction printing help combat the shortage of skilled workers?
3D construction printing is fundamentally changing construction processes. Traditional work steps such as masonry, formwork, or concreting are being replaced by an automated process:
A large-format concrete printer applies the building material layer by layer – precisely according to a digital model.
This will:
Fewer personnel required (often only 2–3 people per construction site)
Physically strenuous tasks reduced
Digital control via tablet, laptop or smartphone possible
This makes the job profile more modern and attractive – especially for technology-savvy specialists and career changers.
Digitalization in construction: New opportunities for companies
While other industries have long since gone digital, the construction industry often lags behind. Technologies like BIM (Building Information Modeling) are being discussed, but everyday life on construction sites is often still analog.
3D construction printing brings real change:
Digital processes + automated control
Smart construction sites with sensors & real-time data
New job profiles: machine operators for 3D printing, digital construction managers, etc.
This makes the industry more innovative – and relevant for a new generation of skilled workers.
Strengthening employer branding with 3D printing
Modern technologies not only improve processes – they also strengthen the employer’s image.
Benefits for companies:
Less physical strain = more attractive job
Training possible within a few weeks (e.g. PERI training)
New responsibilities & development opportunities for employees
PERI 3D Construction supports companies in getting started with 3D printing – practical and future-proof.
Conclusion: How 3D construction printing becomes the key to combating the shortage of skilled workers
The shortage of skilled workers will remain – but digital construction processes are the solution. 3D construction printing helps build more efficiently with fewer workers, increases predictability, and creates new, sustainable jobs.
Construction companies that act now not only gain time – but also talent.
Frequently asked questions about 3D construction printing
How does 3D construction printing work?
3D construction printing is an automated construction process. Special concrete is applied layer by layer through a nozzle. The process is based on a digital 3D model, which the printer automatically creates. This allows walls or entire buildings to be created – without the need for formwork.
What courses and training does PERI 3D Construction offer for 3D construction printing?
PERI 3D Construction offers comprehensive 3D printing training courses where you'll learn everything you need to create your own buildings using 3D construction printers. In just a few weeks, we'll teach you and your team the necessary knowledge of planning, approval, and printing processes, as well as how to operate the 3D printer.
Where is 3D construction printing used?
Residential buildings (single and multi-story)
Prefabricated walls or building elements
Street furniture (benches, bus stops)
Infrastructure projects (flood protection, foundations)
Get started with 3D printing now
PERI 3D Construction supports construction companies in the introduction of 3D construction printing – with practical training, planning assistance and technical advice.
Get informed now and build for the future.
