As the economy and the construction industry begin to recover, it is highly likely that we will experience a severe shortage of skilled workers.  In fact, even in a depressed market, many employers struggle to find qualified craft professionals.  With the average age of the craft professional approaching 50, and the projection that 20% of the construction workforce will retire in the next 2-4 years, the time for action is now.Employers should be readying their workforce for the upturn by focusing on the needs of their incumbent workers.  As recovery begins, attracting young new entrants and providing training for their employees will be a must for any successful contractor, but plans for accomplishing this should be made now.