Business View Caribbean - Mar 2024

recognizing the dual importance of accommodations and infrastructure—such as police stations and roadways—in creating a secure and comfortable environment for visitors. This intertwining of construction with tourism development suggests a symbiotic relationship where public safety and accommodations enhance a more appealing destination for travelers. “Knowing that there’s a police station right around and all over, it impacts the tourists because they feel safe to explore the country,”Ali adds, illustrating the direct correlation between the construction of public safety facilities and the perception of security among tourists. This, coupled with the development of both high-end and more accessible accommodations, indicates a strategic expansion into rural areas to diversify the tourism experience in Trinidad and Tobago. ADDRESSING THE SKILLED LABOR SHORTAGE The availability of skilled labor directly influences the construction industry’s vitality—a challenge that has become increasingly pronounced across regions, including the Caribbean.Ali unpacks the skilled labor shortage issue, acknowledging its impact on the construction sector within the Caribbean. “I know in the Caribbean region there is a problem with skilled labor,” he explains, distinguishing between the abundance of unskilled labor and the scarcity of skilled tradespeople. He attributes this discrepancy to migration trends, where individuals pursue more lucrative opportunities outside the Caribbean, leaving a gap in the local skilled labor market. In response to this challenge, CSS Ltd. has implemented an in-house training program that targets young individuals from trade and technical schools.“We embark on a training exercise, a training internship, a six-month program where at the end, we offer them a permanent job with the organization,” he reveals, showcasing the company’s dedication to nurturing homegrown talent. This initiative equips students with the necessary skills and guarantees employment, creating a sustainable pipeline of skilled labor for the company and the industry. ...OTHERS FOLLOW Lighthouse Ltd, formed in 1972, has since expanded to two lighting showrooms and one electrical store. Providing all commercial and residential, lighting, plumbing and electrical needs for any size project. We are the sole distributor for Excel hand dryers and carry the widest range of products from world renowned manufacturers. WE LEAD ON Quality Products, Services, and Best Prices Contact Us Today! www.lighthousett.com • Lighthouseinfo@hadcoltd.com Electrical & lighting materials supplied for the Guapo Beach Resort project All electrical materials supplied for the Caribbean Cinemas South Park project Our lighting showroom 54 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 11, ISSUE 03