Monday, 13 July 2026 11:25 AM
Company Update
Fresno, CA leader Zachary Grayum encourages stronger support for skilled workers, team development, and practical career growth.
FRESNO, CA / ACCESS Newswire / July 13, 2026 / Zachary Grayum is raising awareness about the importance of workforce leadership, skilled trades, and hands-on career development as labor shortages continue to affect construction, housing, and large-scale operations across the United States.
Grayum, a Fresno-based business leader with experience in construction management, retail operations, and entrepreneurship, says the issue is personal to him.
"In construction, everyone depends on each other," Grayum said. "You learn very quickly that success comes from having the right people in the right roles and making sure everyone understands the goal."
The need for skilled workers remains significant. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects about 649,300 construction and extraction job openings each year from 2024 to 2034. Associated Builders and Contractors reported that the construction industry needed to attract an estimated 439,000 net new workers in 2025 to meet demand. A 2025 AGC and NCCER survey also found that 92 percent of construction firms reported difficulty finding workers, while 45 percent said labor shortages were causing project delays.
Grayum believes the numbers point to a larger issue. Many industries need workers who can lead, communicate, solve problems, and stay consistent under pressure.
"Sports taught me that talent only gets you so far," Grayum said. "The people who improve every day and stay disciplined are usually the ones who succeed over the long run."
Grayum's own path began with athletics and academics. He was a Prep Stars All-American football player, an All-State Football honoree in 1997, and a Valley League Champion and State Finalist in both javelin and shot put. He later received a full football scholarship to Oregon State University and was accepted into the Honors College.
Those early lessons carried into his career. Grayum later served as General Manager for West Coast Agricultural Construction Co. for 11 years. He also owned Pacific Goldendoodle LLC and built leadership experience managing large teams and complex operations.
"When team members develop new skills and gain confidence, the entire organization becomes stronger," Grayum said.
The impact of workforce shortages reaches beyond job sites. The Home Builders Institute and National Association of Home Builders estimated that skilled labor shortages cost the single-family home building sector about $10.8 billion annually, including lost production of about 19,000 homes.
Grayum says the solution starts with how people view hands-on work and leadership.
"Leadership is about service," Grayum said. "It's about helping people perform at their best and creating an environment where they can succeed."
Grayum encourages individuals, families, schools, and communities to recognize the value of skilled work, mentorship, and steady personal development. He believes people can make a difference by respecting trade careers, encouraging young workers, supporting local training paths, and valuing practical experience.
"Whether it's sports, business, or life, success comes from showing up every day and doing the work," Grayum said. "The fundamentals never really change."
Call to Action: People can support workforce development by learning more about skilled trade careers, encouraging young people to explore hands-on career paths, recognizing strong local workers, and promoting a culture that values discipline, reliability, and growth.
To read the full interview, visit the website here.
About Zachary Grayum
Zachary Grayum is a Fresno, California-based business leader with experience in construction management, retail operations, entrepreneurship, and large workforce leadership. A former standout student-athlete, he attended Oregon State University after receiving a full football scholarship and admission to the Honors College. His career includes 11 years as General Manager of West Coast Agricultural Construction Co., business ownership, and leadership in large-scale operations.
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SOURCE: Zachary Grayum