New Report Highlights Immigrant Contributions in Texas Construction

Reg Reinoso

Author

Immigrants play a critical role in shaping Texas’ construction industry, contributing significantly to the state’s growing economy. Yet, behind the scenes of this booming sector lies a workforce that faces heightened risks and vulnerabilities, especially on dangerous construction sites. Despite their substantial contributions, many immigrant workers, particularly those who are undocumented, are often overlooked or mistreated when accidents occur. 

A 2024 report titled Empowering Texas: Immigrants’ Contributions to the Construction Industry, published by the Council on Immigrant Relations, highlights the indispensable role immigrants play in the state’s construction workforce. According to the report, 180,200 immigrants were employed in the construction industry in 2022, which is 51.3% of all employed construction workers.

Many of these workers are undocumented, with the report citing that 31.7% of construction workers in the greater Houston area fall into this category. They fill vital roles that keep the industry moving forward, from labor-intensive tasks like roofing and drywall installation to highly skilled trades such as electrical work and plumbing. The construction industry in Texas requires workers across the skills spectrum, ranging from construction laborers who need no formal educational credentials to construction managers who often hold a bachelor’s degree. 

Many of these roles also involve on-the-job training, with positions like sales representatives and maintenance workers requiring moderate-term training, while laborers and janitors typically undergo short-term training. Workers of all varying levels of education and expertise are essential to filling these in-demand roles, making them a critical part of Texas’ construction industry.

Immigrants, particularly those from Mexico and Central American countries, bring essential skills and a strong work ethic, keeping construction sites active and advancing projects across the state. Their contributions are indispensable, making them a cornerstone of Texas’ economic growth and infrastructure development. However, with this vital role comes significant risk, as construction remains one of the most dangerous industries in Texas.

Risks and Vulnerabilities Faced by Immigrant Workers

While construction work remains one of the most dangerous industries in Texas, immigrant workers face even greater risks. The high rates of injuries and fatalities in construction disproportionately affect immigrant workers, who often lack access to proper safety training and face language barriers that further increase their vulnerability. Fear of retaliation or deportation also discourages many undocumented workers from reporting unsafe conditions or workplace injuries. This fear can lead to exploitation, where employers downplay accidents or avoid taking responsibility when a worker is seriously harmed. In some cases, families of a worker who died are in another country and may not know who to turn for help, especially if the employer turns their back on the family and refuses to answer questions about what happened to their loved ones. 

It is crucial for all workers, regardless of their immigration status, to understand their rights under Texas law. Employers who exploit workers or fail to maintain safe working conditions can be held accountable for negligence. Injury lawyers offer confidential legal counsel, meaning that workers should never hesitate to seek legal advice, as their conversations with attorneys are protected. Undocumented workers, in particular, should not fear retaliation for pursuing their legal rights after an accident. By speaking with an attorney, they can explore the options available to them and potentially secure the compensation they deserve for their injuries.

This information is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal advice.