Download PDFOpen PDF in browser

Exploring Retention and Sense of Belonging Among Hispanic Construction Workforces

10 pagesPublished: July 23, 2025

Abstract

Hispanic workers make up approximately one-third of the U.S. construction workforce, a figure that is expected to increase, especially in the southern regions where reliance on Hispanic labor is growing due to workforce shortages. Despite their growing presence, limited research has been done focused on evaluating factors that improve workforce retention within this community. This study explores the relationship between employee retention and sense of belonging among Hispanic workers. A survey of Hispanic construction workers in Texas revealed a significant positive correlation (Spearman’s coefficient of 0.69) between retention and sense of belonging. The study showed that employees in the early to Mid-Career stage have the lowest values for retention and sense of belonging, indicating the highest intention to remain with the organization and the strongest sense of belonging. The results also show a consistent level of retention and sense of belonging across career stages, with no significant differences observed between the different career stages. The present study highlights the importance of cultivating a work environment that promotes a sense of belonging among workers.

Keyphrases: employee retention, hispanic/latino workers, sense of belonging, sustainable workforce, work experience

In: Wesley Collins, Anthony J. Perrenoud and John Posillico (editors). Proceedings of Associated Schools of Construction 61st Annual International Conference, vol 6, pages 621-630.

BibTeX entry
@inproceedings{ASC2025:Exploring_Retention_Sense_Belonging,
  author    = {Heba Al Kailani and Minerva Bonilla and Chukwuma Nnaji},
  title     = {Exploring Retention and Sense of Belonging Among Hispanic Construction Workforces},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of Associated Schools of Construction 61st Annual International Conference},
  editor    = {Wesley Collins and Anthony J. Perrenoud and John Posillico},
  series    = {EPiC Series in Built Environment},
  volume    = {6},
  publisher = {EasyChair},
  bibsource = {EasyChair, https://easychair.org},
  issn      = {2632-881X},
  url       = {/publications/paper/W29J},
  doi       = {10.29007/3kvc},
  pages     = {621-630},
  year      = {2025}}
Download PDFOpen PDF in browser