The travel staffing industry isn’t what it used to be. During COVID, it wasn’t unusual for contractors to hop from one large-scale project to another with consistent demand and long-term gigs. But in 2024 things looked different and 2025 is off to a slow start as well.
Demand for traveling contractors has slowed down overall, and large-scale staffing projects have become less common. Today, companies are hiring for smaller crews and more technical roles like CNC machinists, CNC operators, and maintenance technicians. While opportunities still exist, they’re more niche, more selective—and competition is up.
So what does that mean for you as a traveling contractor? It means staying ready, staying visible, and staying connected is more important than ever.
Why Demand Has Shifted
The slowdown is being driven by a combination of post-pandemic economic uncertainty, shifting business strategies, and a tighter focus on operational efficiency. Companies are more cautious. They’re investing in skilled tradespeople who can hit the ground running, especially for maintenance, equipment installs, and machine operation.
But there’s good news: The long-term outlook remains strong, especially in industries where onshoring is accelerating due to tariffs, geopolitics, policy shifts, and supply chain risks.
What Industries Are Hiring or Expected to Grow?
While broad demand is down, there are key industries where opportunities are heating up or expected to grow:
- Aerospace & Defense – Driven by rising military spending and government contracts requiring U.S.-based manufacturing.
- Oil & Gas – Projects are ramping up again with global demand increasing and domestic infrastructure needing upgrades.
- High-Tech Manufacturing – Semiconductor plants and advanced manufacturing facilities need skilled tradespeople to build and maintain production lines.
These sectors not only pay well, they also tend to require specialized talent which makes them ideal for experienced contractors willing to travel.
The U.S. Is Facing the Worst Worker Shortage in 50 Years
Even though project demand is down in some areas, America is still in the midst of a historic labor shortage. According to a recent Wall Street Journal article:
“There are now twice as many job openings in U.S. manufacturing as there were in the mid-2000s, and many go unfilled for months.”
Part of the issue? Millions of working-age men are no longer participating in the labor force. A cultural shift has led to the devaluation of blue-collar work, even though many factory roles now offer $100K+ salaries.
For skilled tradespeople who are still in the game, this creates opportunity but only if you stay plugged in.
5 Ways to Stay Competitive as a Traveling Contractor
With fewer big projects and more competition for high-paying technical roles, your relationships with staffing agencies matter more than ever. Here’s how to stay top of mind with recruiters from companies like MADICORP, Nordic Solutions, and Tradesmen International:
1. Keep Your Availability Updated
Let recruiters know when you’re wrapping up a project or becoming available. If they don’t know, they can’t consider you for new roles.
2. Have Your Most Recent Resume on File
Your resume should reflect your most current skills, certifications, and project experience. Highlight specific machinery, environments, and industries you’ve worked in.
3. Be Clear About What You’re Looking For
The more specific you are, the easier it is for recruiters to match you. Let them know:
- What industries you prefer (e.g., aerospace, energy, food production)
- What roles you’re open to (e.g., industrial maintenance, CNC setup, shutdown work)
- Your travel preferences and availability
4. Stay in Touch With Multiple Agencies
Now’s the time to keep active relationships with several agencies. A slow month at one might be busy at another. Build a reputation as a reliable, communicative, and flexible contractor.
5. Keep Your Certifications Current
If you’ve let things lapse (OSHA, forklift, PLC training, etc.), now’s the time to renew. Technical roles often require proof of up-to-date credentials, especially in aerospace and energy.
The Future of Traveling Contract Work Is Shifting — Be Ready
As manufacturing returns to the U.S. and critical industries ramp up hiring, demand for skilled tradespeople will rebound, but it may look different than before. Companies will lean on flexible, mobile talent to fill urgent gaps, especially in technical and maintenance roles.
That’s where you come in.
By staying prepared, maintaining strong agency relationships, and positioning yourself for the industries that are growing, you can stay ahead of the curve and continue doing the work you love — on your terms.