As artificial intelligence reshapes industries, construction faces a critical workforce shortage that requires leadership rooted in practical trade experience, according to Kelvin Enfinger Jr., Vice President of Greenhut Construction and 2025 Chair of ABC Florida. Enfinger's career progression from tradesman to executive provides a tangible framework for tackling what he identifies as the industry's most pressing challenge. His leadership philosophy, developed through early field work, informs management of multi-million dollar projects across healthcare, aviation, education, industrial and office sectors, enabling teams to leverage practical knowledge when complications occur.
Enfinger criticizes societal pressures that have directed generations toward higher education while overlooking trade opportunities. He notes that skilled trades offer substantial careers without student debt burdens. While AI automates certain professions, Enfinger observes that artificial intelligence replacing plumbers, electricians, HVAC technicians, carpenters, or other hands-on trades remains improbable. This perspective highlights construction's unique position amid technological transformation.
As chair of Florida's largest commercial construction association, Enfinger addresses workforce challenges directly through policy engagement. His primary concern involves immigration reform, specifically merit-based visa programs for construction workers advocated by ABC National. Enfinger supports expediting visas for non-criminal immigrants through merit-based systems, recognizing their potential to alleviate workforce shortages. This policy advocacy occurs during ABC's Capitol Days, where he engages Florida lawmakers on industry issues.
Greenhut Construction's local contractor approach provides competitive advantages in Northwest Florida by circulating tax dollars within communities. The company's recent completions, including the Leonardo MRO hangar facility, Myrtle Grove Elementary School, and the American Magic Facility—all finished in 2025—demonstrate successful navigation of budget constraints and complex conditions in the Pensacola market. This local expertise proves valuable as Northwest Florida experiences growth in aerospace, manufacturing, and distribution sectors.
For aspiring leaders, Enfinger recommends continuous learning, mentorship, and attentive listening. His approach combines field experience, community commitment, and workforce advocacy to create a sustainable leadership model for an industry undergoing significant transformation. As construction evolves alongside technological advancements, Enfinger's emphasis on trade-based leadership and workforce development offers vendors serving the human resources industry insights into talent management strategies that address sector-specific challenges while preparing for future industry demands.
