Forge Shop Workers

The U.S. Department of Labor reports that employment for forging machine setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic is expected to decline by 16 percent from 2023 through 2033. Since the 1980s, employment in forge shops has declined. Because U.S. forge shops have had to become more cost-efficient in order to compete with foreign companies and nonforged materials, they have been automating many of the production processes. So, even though the total number of forged parts shipped in recent years have increased, automation reduced the number of production workers needed. In addition, fluctuations in the economy continue to affect the forging industry.

Some new jobs will be created to meet the increased demand for forged products, but most openings will develop as experienced workers retire, change occupations, or otherwise leave the workforce. More sophisticated manufacturing processes now require highly skilled workers, and applicants who have training in electronics, a knowledge of quality control systems, and a strong academic background stand the best chance of filling any positions that become available.