Boilermakers and Mechanics

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) projects that employment for boilermakers will decline through 2032. "The shift away from coal-fired electricity generation will reduce the need for boilermakers," the department explains. "Renewable photovoltaic and wind generation systems do not have boilers, and natural gas plants require less ongoing boiler maintenance than coal plants."

Some employment opportunities will be due to the trend of repairing and retrofitting, rather than replacing, boilers, which can last more than 50 years. Other opportunities may stem from the installation of new boilers and related equipment. An increasing number of boilermakers will be employed by utilities, as these organizations seek to upgrade their boiler systems to comply with the federal Clean Air Act.

During economic downturns, boilermakers, including layout workers and fitters, may be laid off because many industries stop expanding their operations and install very few new boilers. On the other hand, boilermaker mechanics are less affected by downturns because they work more on maintaining and repairing existing equipment, which requires their services regardless of economic conditions.

There will be openings for boilermakers every year as experienced workers leave the field. Workers who have completed apprenticeships and who have welding experience will have the best opportunities for good jobs.