Rough trade: Firm's electricians show off their skills

The shortage of skilled workers in construction trades is a thorn in the side of many developers in Florida. But the companies that help guide new developments out of the ground also suffer, as fierce competition for talent results in workers being lured away by promises of higher salaries and better benefits.

That has prompted firms such as St. Petersburg-based Power Design, one of the nation’s largest electrical contractors, to get creative with recruitment and retention programs. The firm has some 1,500 employees, and did $469 million in sales last year.