Sheet metal fabrication is an essential industry that plays a crucial role in the manufacturing sector. This process involves the shaping and joining of metal sheets to create various products and structures, including HVAC systems, aircraft components, and automotive parts. With the increasing demand for sheet metal fabrication services, it's essential to understand the labor statistics related to this industry. In this blog post, we will explore the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data on sheet metal fabrication, including employment trends, wages, and job outlook.
Employment Trends in Sheet Metal Fabrication
According to the BLS, the sheet metal fabrication industry employed approximately 141,500 workers in 2020. The majority of these workers were sheet metal workers (63%), followed by welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers (20%). Other occupations in this industry include first-line supervisors, inspectors, testers, and sorters.
Over the past decade, the number of sheet metal fabrication jobs has experienced steady growth. Between 2010 and 2020, the number of sheet metal workers increased by 19%, while the number of welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers grew by 11%. This growth can be attributed to the increasing demand for sheet metal products in various industries, such as construction, aerospace, and automotive.
Wages in the Sheet Metal Fabrication Industry
The BLS reports that the median annual wage for sheet metal workers was $50,400 in 2020, which is higher than the median wage for all construction and extraction occupations ($42,310) and the median wage for all U.S. workers ($41,950). The lowest 10% of sheet metal workers earned less than $30,840, while the highest 10% earned more than $88,070.
Welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers earned a median annual wage of $44,190 in 2020, with the lowest 10% earning less than $30,220, and the highest 10% earning more than $66,250.
First-line supervisors in the sheet metal fabrication industry earned a median annual wage of $66,210, while inspectors, testers, and sorters earned a median annual wage of $40,370.
Job Outlook for Sheet Metal Fabrication Workers
The BLS projects that employment in the sheet metal fabrication industry will grow by 4% between 2020 and 2030, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for sheet metal products in the construction, aerospace, and automotive industries.
Sheet metal workers can expect a 4% employment growth during this period, while welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers can anticipate a 3% growth. First-line supervisors and inspectors, testers, and sorters can expect a 5% and 2% growth, respectively.
Factors Influencing Sheet Metal Fabrication Labor Statistics
Several factors contribute to the growth and demand for sheet metal fabrication jobs. Some of these factors include:
1. Technological advancements:The introduction of advanced technologies, such as computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software, has increased the efficiency and precision of sheet metal fabrication processes. This has led to higher demand for skilled workers who can operate these advanced tools and equipment.
2. Green construction:The growing emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainability in the construction industry has led to an increased demand for sheet metal workers who can install and maintain energy-efficient HVAC systems and other sheet metal products.
3. Aging workforce:As the current workforce in the sheet metal fabrication industry ages and retires, there will be a need for new workers to fill the vacancies. This creates opportunities for young workers entering the field.
4. Infrastructure projects:Government investments in infrastructure projects, such as transportation and public utilities, can lead to increased demand for sheet metal fabrication services and, consequently, more jobs in this industry.
In conclusion, the sheet metal fabrication industry offers promising career opportunities for those interested in working with metals and creating essential products for various industries. With steady employment growth, competitive wages, and a positive job outlook, a career in sheet metal fabrication can be both rewarding and secure.
bureau of labor statistics sheet metal fabrication
