Baby Boomers Are Leaving Skilled Trades, Now What?

There has been a lot of talk about the shortage of skilled trade professionals in the United States, but why? Blame it on Baby Boomers who are saying “goodbye” to their jobs in construction, manufacturing, and engineering. As a result, companies are scrambling to recruit employees. While some people of younger generations may not put gaining a skilled trade high on their career list, many fail to realize the vast employment opportunities and lucrative jobs that are available to skilled tradespeople. The following occupations represent the top five industries with the greatest job potential.

Construction and Extraction

Thanks to growth in the economy and population, demand for construction and extraction occupations has never been higher. How high? Employment in these occupations is projected to grow 11 percent from 2018 to 2026, faster than the national average for all occupations. This means a national gain of about 747,000+ new jobs.

Electricians

There’s no escaping technology, which has become an integral part of our lives. As a result, demand for electricians will continue to grow. From Wi-Fi to air conditioning, almost everything we take for granted requires a skilled electrician to install or fix. With clean energy on the rise, many electricians have moved from working on power lines and circuit breakers to installing alternative energy sources – such as solar and wind.

Welding, Smoldering, and Bronzing Workers

Welding is the most common way of permanently joining metal parts. Because of its strength, welding is used in shipbuilding, automobile manufacturing and repair, aerospace applications, and thousands of other manufacturing activities. Welding also is used to join beams in various construction, bridge and infrastructure jobs. In February 2018, the Trump Administration signed a $200 billion infrastructure plan that incentivizes state and municipal building projects. With the increase in funding, you can plan on seeing a surge in demand for skilled welders.

Pipe-layers, Plumbers, Pipe-fitters, and Steamfitters

As long as there are clogged sinks or broken toilets, we’ll need plumbers. While most people are familiar with plumbers, few recognize the skilled pipe layers, pipe-fitters, and steamfitters that install, maintain, and repair pipe systems. No two pipe systems are the same; some come from reservoirs and municipal water treatment plants while others are used in power plants to carry steam to power turbines. Simply put, as long as there are new building projects, there will be a need for pipe-layers, pipe-fitters, and steamfitters.

Machinists

Machinists and tool and die makers work in machine shops, tool rooms and factories. While many believe the rise in Artificial Intelligence (AI) will lead to a decrease in machinists, statistics suggest otherwise. According to Recruiter.com, demand for machinists is expected to rise, with as many as 49,550 new jobs to be filled this year alone.

If you think you have the ability to work in a skilled trade, Fortis College offers several programs to get you started. Click here for more information or call 1-855-436-7847 to speak with a representative today.