2026 Technician Insights Report

Pride (55%), problem-solving (51%), and hands-on skills (51%) ranked well above pay (30%). Contractors have a workforce that finds real fulfillment in the trade.

Tips:

• Prioritize culture: Early-career technicians place a higher value on being part of a team.
• Give credit where credit is due: Recognize skilled problem-solving, not just productivity metrics.

The top two frustrations — miscommunication (45%) and inefficient scheduling (44%) — are both coordination problems between the field and the office. 

Tips:

• Audit communications: Identify the friction points, then look at whether your current tools are helping or adding to the problem.
• Improve your technology: When software doesn’t match how technicians actually work, it becomes another obstacle rather than a help.

About 28% of techs use AI in their work, whether regularly or occasionally, and 46% of those who use AI use it to save time on paperwork, writing, and summarization.

Tips:

• Embrace technology: Contractors who give techs AI tools now will be ahead of the curve.
• See where AI can reduce friction: Documentation, troubleshooting, and job prep are some ways AI can improve efficiency.