The metal fabrication industry is an interesting industry with lots of statistics and facts, some of which might surprise you while others will have you saying, “I knew that.”
Metal Fabrication Industry Facts
For starters, if you want to work in the metal fabrication industry you do NOT need a license. That said, workers often opt to get welding (or related) certifications. Are most welders male? Definitely. It’s estimated that only about 3 percent of U.S. welders are women. Most welders are over the age of 50; the average age is about 54. The industry is trying to recruit more young people and more women.
Next, where do workers work in the metal fabrication industry? Most of them work in machine shops, the largest sub-sector in the industry. Following that, you’ll find workers in fabricated sheet metals and sheet metal works. Add all three of these together and you’ve got a $90 billion industry (and that’s with stats from 2013). While there are many welders, there are also machinists and team assemblers in this industry, among other roles and titles.
Metal fabricators have a higher rate of illness and injury than the national average. Think about it– they’re dealing with sharp metal, as well as soldering/welding burns and/or falls from ladders or scaffolds. These jobs have some risks!
Even with risks, people love working in the industry. In fact, about 12 percent of all manufacturing employees in the U.S. work in the metal fabrication industry– that’s about a million and a half workers, many of whom make a great living.
Finally, where do businesses go to buy industrial metals? Eagle Alloys is the logical choice. Eagle Alloys is a leading global materials supplier; Call 800-237-9012 or email sales@eaglealloys.com for more information.
