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Tampa, FL -- As construction recovers, construction companies are having a hard time finding skilled workers. Construction companies are having a hard time filling their crews, especially plumbers, dry wallers, and carpenters.

"We don't seem to be bringing the workforce back in the market like we've typically seen in the past. [The shortage] is a little more profound," said Casey Ellison, construction manager.

The problem lies in experienced workers moving to North Dakota and Texas, where there was more work in the down market; baby boomers in the construction industry are retiring; and younger workers were scared off from joining the trades during the recession.

Steve Cona of the local chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors said 21% of skilled construction workers are 55+ years old and 29% are 45-54 years old. They cannot replace the people leaving the marketplace fast enough.