At a glance

• Field service trends for the first half of 2025 included continued growth in sectors such as data centers, AV systems, Windows upgrades, and low-voltage cabling.
• Retail-driven field service work remains steady, with remodels and system upgrades tied to store closures and new tenant activity.
• Break/fix and lifecycle services are on the rise, as organizations shift from capital projects to maintaining existing systems.
• Key field service challenges in 2025 include tariffs, high interest rates, and technician shortages—factors that also shape 2026 planning.

As we move into the second half of 2025, the themes are familiar: economic uncertainty, cost pressure, and market volatility. Yet, field service demand continues to grow in many categories.

Here’s a look at the tailwinds supporting field service activity—and the headwinds that could limit it.Tailwinds create field service opportunities

Growth areas to watch

Many segments of field service are expanding, even in a cautious market. Data centers remain a bright spot, fueled by ongoing investment in cloud infrastructure and AI capabilities. The global data center construction market will grow at 11.8% through 2030, according to industry estimates.

Other work types—such as physical security systems and AV upgrades—show continued demand. AV is already tracking ahead of last year, with over 37,000 work orders completed in the first half of 2025, reflecting renewed investment in meeting rooms and digital signage.

Windows device work is surging, driven by concerns about tariff-related price increases and the upcoming end-of-life for Windows 10. More than 62,000 device-type work orders were completed in the first half of 2025, as SMBs move quickly to upgrade devices for better security and compatibility.

Low-voltage cabling is gaining traction due to infrastructure upgrades, store reconfigurations, and rising demand for connected environments. Nearly 56,000 work orders for cable testing and runs have already been completed in 2025.

Steady demand from retail store activity

Retail continues to be a key driver of field service work, even as store openings and closures reshuffle the landscape.

Core retail sales have grown 4.2% year-over-year, according to the National Retail Federation. Over 9,900 store closures have been announced since early 2024, but many of these were long-expected exits from struggling brands. Meanwhile, space vacated by these closures is already attracting new tenants. 

This activity fuels consistent demand for decommissioning, remodels, and system upgrades, particularly across signage, cabling, POS, and access control. For field service teams, the work remains steady, even if the banners above the doors are changing.

Increased focus on lifecycle services

With some large capital projects on hold, many businesses are shifting to maintenance and repair. Break/fix work, preventative maintenance, and asset extension services are seeing renewed interest. This shift allows service organizations to strengthen relationships by helping customers keep existing systems running reliably.

Headwinds pressure business investment

Impacts from trade shifts

Recent trade policy shifts, such as tariffs, are raising costs for imported equipment and materials across the field service landscape. Some companies accelerated purchases earlier in the year, while others are waiting out the uncertainty. Either way, the ripple effects are slowing project timelines and increasing cost sensitivity across the board.

High cost of capital and macroeconomic strain

Borrowing costs remain elevated, with interest rates between 4.5% and 5%. The Federal Reserve has held rates steady, and it is concerned that lowering rates could reignite inflation. At the same time, first-quarter GDP fell 0.2%, partly due to a surge of imports ahead of price increases. Economists surveyed by the Wall Street Journal now see a 33% chance of recession, up from 22% earlier this year. These factors are causing many businesses to delay or scale back spending on field service projects.

Persistent technician shortages

Labor remains a constraint. While overall unemployment remains low at 4.1%, field service organizations continue to face technician shortages in certain skill areas and geographic regions. The challenge is most acute for complex, multi-site work and time-sensitive projects. As demand in specific sectors continues, the ability to flex labor capacity remains a key differentiator.

Strategic considerations for field service leaders

Work order activity remains strong on the Field Nation platform, with 631,000 work orders completed through June. In a shifting market, field service leaders must adjust their strategies to stay ahead.

Dig deeper into market signals: Avoid relying on broad economic headlines alone. Analyze growth and contraction at the segment level to see which sectors, store types, or regions drive work and which are slowing down.

Strengthen lifecycle services: As capital budgets tighten, prioritize services that help customers maintain and extend existing systems. Proactive break/fix, preventative maintenance, and performance upgrades can build stronger relationships without heavy upfront spending.

Flex your capacity: Keep on-demand labor options in place to handle seasonal peaks, store rationalization, or project changes linked to trade policy shifts. A flexible model allows you to adjust quickly.

Prioritize speed: In a volatile environment, responding fast can set you apart. Completing projects ahead of pricing changes or seasonal surges positions you as a trusted partner.

Power your projects with a flexible workforce

Field Nation makes scaling your capacity and responding to changing needs easy. Connect with our team to see how you can prepare for what’s next.

Get a complete view of 2025 trends →
Deep dive into 1H2025 trends
The definitive guide to field service trends

The post What’s shaping field service in the second half of 2025 appeared first on Field Nation.

Source: StatCounter Global Stats

Source: StatCounter Global Stats

For businesses using devices ranging from retail point-of-sale systems to laptops, Windows 10 end-of-support will create new operational challenges and opportunities. 

Here’s what field service leaders need to know about this change and which actions to take today.

What Windows 10 end-of-support means

After October 14, 2025:

• Microsoft will no longer provide free security updates, technical assistance, or security fixes for Windows 10.
• Devices running Windows 10 will still function but will be more vulnerable to cybersecurity risks.
• Businesses that delay upgrading may face compliance challenges and increased exposure to vulnerabilities like CrowdStrike’s Reduced Functionality Mode (RFM) for uncertified Windows kernels.

5 impacts for field service leaders

Successful field service delivery depends on reliable, secure technology. Windows 10 end-of-support impacts businesses and end clients in these key areas:

1. Increased demand for upgrades and replacements

Businesses must either upgrade devices to Windows 11, purchase Extended Security Updates (ESU), or replace outdated hardware. This creates a surge in service opportunities, such as

• Device assessments
• OS upgrades and imaging
• System migrations and peripheral testing

Field Nation insight: The shift away from Windows 10 has contributed to a marked increase in project-based field work, particularly for large organizations managing distributed device fleets across multiple locations.

2. Security and compliance pressures

Without updates, Windows 10 systems become immediate cybersecurity liabilities. For field service, this means:

• Decommissioning non-compliant endpoints
• Performing cybersecurity risk assessments
• Offering bundled upgrade and security services

Field Nation insight: Technicians play a critical role in reducing exposure—helping businesses retire non-compliant systems and implement secure replacements at scale, especially in regulated industries.

3. Compatibility with field devices and tools

Many diagnostic tools and applications may require configuration updates or complete replacements when moving to Windows 11.

Field service leaders should prepare to handle:

• Legacy application troubleshooting
• Custom driver installations
• Migration of specialized software

Field Nation insight: The longer businesses wait to act, the more likely they are to face unplanned downtime and introducing risk into already tight project timelines.

4. Accelerated hardware lifecycle management

Field-deployed devices that don’t meet Windows 11 requirements (like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot) may need replacement, triggering:

• Installation and de-installation services
• Secure device disposal
• Logistics coordination across multiple sites

Field Nation insight: Device refresh cycles often require rapid, multi-site coordination. On-demand technicians enable businesses to stay on schedule without straining internal resources.

5. Tight timelines and service-level agreements (SLAs)

Many organizations will begin phased transitions well before the October 2025 deadline. Field service leaders will face:

• Compressed project timelines
• High-volume, short-term engagements
• Stringent SLAs

Field Nation insight: Meeting aggressive timelines requires flexible field capacity. Use on-demand labor to surge support where and when it’s needed most—without long-term overhead.

How to turn risk into opportunity

The field service industry is uniquely positioned to meet this critical moment. To stay ahead, field service organizations should:

• Market windows upgrade services today
  Proactively reach out to end clients that rely on field service work. Educate, prepare, and instill confidence. Segments like retail (multi-site POS), logistics, warehousing, and telecom infrastructure may disproportionately feel the urgency given already strained internal bandwidth in managing site visits and hardware swaps across multiple locations. 

• Bundle hardware, software, and security
  Make it easy for your clients by offering a complete package: device upgrades, OS installation, security hardening, and technician training. Create a seamless experience that removes complexity and builds trust.
• Use labor marketplaces to scale
  Leverage Field Nation to connect with skilled, on-demand field service professionals nationwide. In 2025, over 62,000 Windows device-related work orders were completed on the platform – a third of which were Windows upgrade related. With 18,000+ technicians across the US experienced in this type of work, the marketplace gives you the coverage and expertise needed to scale quickly and meet deadlines.

Stay ahead of the windows 10 deadline

By preparing now, field service leaders can turn the Windows 10 end-of-support milestone into growth. With the right field coverage and proactive planning, this event can become an opportunity to modernize, strengthen security, and streamline infrastructure across your business. 

 Whether coordinating upgrades for 30 or 3,000 sites, you can find the right talent in the right markets to scale confidently with Field Nation.

Learn how Field Nation can help you navigate the Windows 10 transition. Start with a coverage assessment or schedule a meeting and we’ll help you build a transition plan.

The post Windows 10 support is ending: What field service leaders need to know appeared first on Field Nation.

Market trends driving break/fix demand

Extended asset life has become the new reality in field services, with equipment refresh cycles stretching to 5 to 7+ years. Companies are deliberately postponing hardware refreshes in response to short-term budget constraints and rising concerns around tariffs.

This trend has been building for some time, as equipment becomes more modular and upgradeable, and as cloud infrastructure reduces the wear on on-premises devices.

Break/fix work provides a steady flow of service opportunities. While other types of field service work can be highly seasonal, repairs remain steady year-round, especially as more organizations focus on maintaining aging assets instead of replacing them.
Placeholder graphic for inspiration

But steady work doesn’t necessarily mean steady margins, as service delivery costs continue to climb:

• Hourly rates for field service technicians have increased 12% or more year over year
• Equipment costs have increased 5-15%, with some estimates as high as 35%
• SLAs are tightening, with response times now measured in hours versus days as business dependence on technology intensifies

The result? Greater pressure on service providers to deliver efficiently.

Break/fix work is reactive, but your process shouldn’t be

Break/fix work often moves fast. Tight SLAs, quick turnarounds, and shifting schedules can leave little room for error. When the right systems aren’t in place, it’s easy for small gaps to create bigger headaches. Common challenges include:

• Work orders that lack key details or consistency
• Delays in assigning jobs or approving completed work
• Communication missteps that lead to confusion on-site
• Unclear expectations for parts logistics or documentation

But here’s the good news: with the right structure and support, these issues are preventable. A well-run break/fix program can bring predictability and performance to even the most time-sensitive repairs.

Boost technician utilization with break/fix work

Maximizing your workforce’s efficiency is critical to keeping pace with rising costs. When analyzing productivity metrics using marketplace data, we’ve discovered a significant opportunity: break/fix work can strategically boost overall technician utilization rates. On-demand break/fix work brings operational flexibility that helps smooth technician workloads across fluctuating project demands.

Here’s why that matters: A drop in utilization has an exponential impact on gross margin.

• At 85% utilization, gross margin is typically around 35%
• At 60% utilization, gross margin drops dramatically to just 10%

Our analysis shows that profitability suffers significantly when technician utilization falls below 75%. This is where on-demand break/fix work provides a valuable solution. It can fill gaps in technician schedules and maintain higher utilization rates to preserve margins.

Turn break/fix into a strategic advantage

When the right systems are in place, break/fix work becomes more predictable and easier to scale. With clear processes, consistent communication, and the right technician support, you’re in a better position to deliver, no matter what the market throws your way.

Ready to strengthen your break/fix approach? Contact our team to explore what’s possible.

The post How break/fix work strengthens your service strategy appeared first on Field Nation.

Growth in data center demand

Several factors are accelerating data center demand:

• AI and big data: The rise of artificial intelligence applications and massive data analytics has exponentially increased the need for computing power, storage, and memory.
• Cloud computing expansion: Businesses are transitioning to cloud-based models, driving demand for robust and scalable data centers.
• Edge computing: To minimize latency, companies are deploying smaller data centers closer to end users, supplementing larger, central facilities.

Data centers reshape the tech landscape, creating unprecedented demand for field service expertise.

Key trends in data center field services

Data center expansion requires new capabilities from field services, particularly in these areas:

Fiber infrastructure upgrades

Data centers need advanced fiber optics to handle increased bandwidth. Field service technicians are now frequently engaged in fiber replacements and cabling upgrades.

Server and storage enhancements

As computing needs grow, field technicians are tasked with hot swaps, server upgrades, and storage expansion. Leading companies are focusing on memory, processing power, and storage capacity.

Energy and cooling solutions

Data centers generate immense heat, requiring efficient cooling systems. Field technicians increasingly replace and upgrade fans to maintain optimal temperatures.

Sustainability initiatives

Rising sustainability demands push data centers to adopt greener technologies, including renewable energy sources and energy-efficient hardware. Field service teams are essential for installing and maintaining these eco-friendly solutions.

Field service implications

To meet the rising demand for data center solutions, field service providers must adapt to these evolving needs:

• Skill specialization: Technicians require advanced training in fiber optics, server management, and cooling technologies.
• Workforce flexibility: Growing data centers require flexible labor models to handle fluctuating demand.
• Sustainability expertise: Field technicians must understand energy-efficient and sustainable technologies to support green initiatives.

Meet the growing demand for data center solutions

The rapid growth of data centers emphasizes the vital role of field services. As this demand for data center solutions continues to grow, field service leaders must stay ahead of the curve by offering specialized expertise and reliable data center services.

Ready to optimize your field service strategy? Partner with Field Nation to leverage our buyers’ network of skilled technicians and scalable solutions designed to meet the demands of an ever-changing landscape. Discover how Field Nation can help you stay ahead.

The post Rising demand for data centers and its impact on field service appeared first on Field Nation.

Respondents in the Field Nation survey highlighted the strongest need for certain types of cabling projects, including:

• Retail equipment cabling installs, such as cash wraps and point-of-sale systems.
• Copper or fiber structured cabling for retail stores, data centers, large warehouses, and distribution centers.
• Cabling for network equipment and wireless access points.

The continued requirement for connectivity has driven significant growth in both fiber optic and copper infrastructure. According to Grand View Research, copper dominated the market with 49.8 percent market share, while fiber has the highest annual growth rate.

Thomas Edmondson, VP of Operations at LMI Tech Systems, a full-service electrical contractor and system integrator, concurs, “We’re experiencing significant growth in all categories, with the wireless sector leading the way. As we emerge from the recession, we’re witnessing an increase in new store openings with WiFi offered at more locations. It’s an interesting paradox since wireless access points require wiring, resulting in the need for multiple cable types for each installation.”

Source: Grand View Research

Fiber optic cables are increasingly deployed in warehouses and distribution centers to meet the demand for high-speed and reliable connectivity. They are also essential for data centers that require bandwidth for cloud computing and big data processing. Fiber optic cabling is cost-effective, with higher data transmission rates and lower maintenance costs than copper. Initiatives like Fiber To The Home (FTTH) have supported high-speed internet connectivity and advanced services.

Similarly, the demand for reliable and scalable networking solutions has fueled the adoption of copper cabling, particularly in store openings, refreshes, and remodels. The emergence of 10-Gigabit networking and Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology has further contributed to the growth of copper cabling, offering faster data transfer rates and simplified installations. Also, copper cabling remains a budget-friendly option for organizations with cost constraints. These growth drivers have solidified the continued relevance and adoption of both fiber optic and copper cabling, providing vital connectivity across various applications.

The uninterrupted connectivity needed for other applications is intricately linked to the underlying cabling infrastructure. Public safety and security concerns have driven the adoption of access control systems and IP cameras, which are now more affordable compared to analog CCTV systems. Moreover, the consistent need for uptime has created opportunities in the cellular space, with installations of cradlepoint systems for cellular backups in case of WiFi or modem failures. 

Ready to seize the opportunities in the thriving market for cabling services? Reach out to our team for valuable advice and customized solutions.

The post Market dynamics fuel strong demand for cabling services appeared first on Field Nation.

Other industry research also highlights the talent crisis. In April 2023, the job openings to hire ratio was 1.6, indicating a high demand for skilled cablers compared to the available workforce. The quit rate also stood at 1.6, further emphasizing the scarcity of qualified professionals. With over 9.9 million vacant jobs and an aging workforce, the industry is grappling with the exodus of experienced workers.

Moreover, declining vocational enrollment during the pandemic has exacerbated the supply shortage. These factors, coupled with the increasing demands of the fiber broadband and telecom industries, highlight the urgent need to address the lack of skilled cablers. The fiber broadband industry alone is expected to build 1.6 million miles of fiber over the next five years, leading to job creation estimates in the hundreds of thousands, according to the Fiber Broadband Association. Similarly, the telecom industry, currently employing approximately 672,000 technicians, requires an additional 250,000 new technicians in the short term to keep up with demand.

While cablers are in short supply, there is positive news for service leaders. Experienced cabling independent contractors using the Field Nation marketplace can help bridge the gap in cabling demand. Contact our team to learn how we can connect you with skilled professionals who can support your cabling needs.

The post The cabling talent shortage: a major hurdle for growth appeared first on Field Nation.

Early beginnings

“My story’s a bit unique,” Brian reflects. “I started working for my dad, and by the time I was 13, he was running his own company. I was the kid that hung around the shop…that’s where I started learning the business.” This early exposure to the field service industry shaped Brian’s career path and instilled a passion for the trade that would last a lifetime.

The field service industry has undergone significant changes over the years, a transformation Brian has witnessed firsthand. “I’ve been around the industry long enough to recognize how technology has changed the industry,” he says. By continuously honing his skills and knowledge, Brian has learned to embrace change, including learning how to work with sophisticated modern day IT systems.

A typical day

In 2018, Brian took a pivotal step by forming his field service company, Smarter Technologies. This move was not just about starting a business; it was about creating a platform for innovation and excellence in the field services industry.

As a business owner managing three different teams, Brian’s day is a mix of leadership, networking, and hands-on work. “I still go out on jobs…I like troubleshooting. No environment is the same,” he shares. This hands-on approach keeps Brian connected to his roots and provides valuable training opportunities for his team.

Since 2017, Brian has used Field Nation to find projects and build relationships with buyers. “Pulling jobs from Field Nation helps me establish consistency for my business,” he explains. The platform enables Brian to find opportunities that fit his company’s skill set, ensuring a good match between the service provided and the client’s needs.

Advice for newcomers

Brian offers key advice for those starting out in the field service industry: “The hardest part of getting started is actually getting started. When you select your first Work Order, read everything in the scope of work so you are fully prepared. ” He emphasizes the importance of building relationships, being open to training opportunities, and documenting everything. “Buyers like to see motivated and well-informed technicians. Those are the ones they want,” Brian advises.

A partnership for growth

Reflecting on his experience with the Field Nation platform, Brian appreciates the operational efficiency it brings to his business. “You want some consistency in your business and that’s what Field Nation is good at,” he says. This collaboration has allowed Smarter Technologies to focus on what they do best, providing top-notch field services across various locations.

Through his leadership at Smarter Technologies and his strategic use of Field Nation, Brian has carved out a successful niche in the rapidly evolving field service landscape. Brian’s story is proof that with the right approach, growth and success are well within reach. Connect with skilled technicians like Brian for your next project, or if  you’re an independent technician who’s ready to find work on the #1 labor marketplace for IT field services, create your profile on Field Nation today! 

The post Stories from the Field: Brian Smith appeared first on Field Nation.

A critical step toward continued growth and opportunity in low-voltage cabling is obtaining and displaying the necessary licenses. If you’re a technician who uses Field Nation to find and complete work, you may want to list current low-voltage licenses on your profile. In this blog, we’ll delve into additional reasons how a low-voltage cabling license may be beneficial and what it takes to get licensed.

The benefits of a low-voltage license

Several factors make a low-voltage license beneficial to technicians, including:

Quality assurance

Licensing is a testament to a technician’s proficiency, knowledge, and adherence to industry standards. Service delivery leaders want experienced and qualified technicians working on their assignments. Listing a low-voltage license on your profile showcases your ability to complete projects that require specific skill sets.

Commitment to compliance and legal requirements

License requirements vary from state to state, and in many regions, low-voltage cabling work is subject to specific regulations. As states continue to evolve their licensing requirements, many field service companies will increasingly turn to licensed low-voltage cabling technicians. A low-voltage license on your Field Nation profile shows clients your adherence to potential state requirements.

Enhanced marketability

Licensed technicians stand out in a competitive field. Listing a low-voltage license on your Field Nation profile can help enhance your visibility and marketability to buyers.

How to get licensed in low-voltage cabling

The process for obtaining a low-voltage cabling license can vary by state, however, technicians pursuing a license can likely expect similar steps.

Training and experience

Most licensing authorities require candidates to have a solid educational background in low-voltage cabling. In fact, many states require several years of experience in cabling before obtaining a license. Training may consist of attending a specific course or program depending on your state.

Examination and application

Licensing typically involves passing a rigorous examination that assesses your knowledge of low-voltage cabling concepts, regulations, and best practices. After passing the exam and/or meeting your state’s requirements, you must submit the specified form or application so your state can approve and grant the license.

Continuing education

To stay licensed, technicians often need to engage in continuous learning. This learning may consist of completing an annual course or training session. Adhering to the continuing education requirement ensures you stay updated on industry advancements and maintain a high standard of expertise.

Create your Field Nation profile and start building your work schedule

Getting a low-voltage license boosts professional growth, credibility, and work opportunities. With a license, you can continue to play a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless integration of cutting-edge systems. By navigating the licensing process strategically, you can position yourself as an industry leader, contributing to the field service industry.

Ready to start finding work and building your schedule? Create a profile on Field Nation and jumpstart your career as a low-voltage technician!

The post A technician’s guide to low-voltage licensing appeared first on Field Nation.