skilled labor shortage

[skɪld ˈleɪbər ˈʃɔːrtɪdʒ]
noun phrasepl: skilled labor shortages
escassez de mão de obra qualificada
1. A situation where there are insufficient numbers of workers with specialized training, technical expertise, or professional qualifications to meet the demands of the labor market in specific industries or sectors
The construction industry is facing a skilled labor shortage that is delaying major projects across the country.
A indústria da construção enfrenta uma escassez de mão de obra qualificada que está atrasando grandes projetos em todo o país.
2. An economic condition characterized by high demand for trained professionals such as electricians, plumbers, engineers, or technicians, but insufficient supply of available workers
The skilled labor shortage in the healthcare sector has created opportunities for nurses and medical technicians.
A escassez de mão de obra qualificada no setor de saúde criou oportunidades para enfermeiros e técnicos médicos.
This term has become increasingly prominent in both Brazil and the USA since 2020, reflecting post-pandemic economic challenges. In Brazil, it's particularly acute in sectors like construction, technology, and healthcare. In the USA, it's driven ongoing policy discussions about immigration, vocational education funding, and apprenticeship programs. The phrase reflects broader concerns about demographic changes, educational investment, and economic competitiveness in both countries.
NYC Slang
talent crunch or skills crunch
Synonyms / Sinônimos
shortage of skilled workerslack of qualified labortalent deficitworker shortageskills gap
Antonyms / Antônimos
skilled labor surplusabundance of skilled workerslabor surplus

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
escassez de mão de obra qualificada
Most common and formal usage across Brazil
São Paulo
falta de profissionais qualificados
Often used in business and industrial contexts in the largest economic hub
Rio de Janeiro
carência de trabalhadores especializados
Alternative phrasing common in the services sector
Portugal
escassez de mão de obra especializada
Portuguese variant uses 'especializada' instead of 'qualificada'; same meaning

Related Words

skills gapvocational trainingapprenticeshipworkforce developmentlabor marketprofessional qualificationstechnical expertisebrain drain

Related Idioms & Phrases

closing the skills gap
addressing the labor shortage
bridging the talent gap
fighting worker attrition
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