Approximately 7.1 million workers were employed in the industry in 1997, a record year according to U.S. Industry and Trade Outlook 1998. While the nation's booming economy has encouraged new construction projects across the country, the Associated Builders and Contractors Association is predicting a shortage of 250,000 workers each year into the next decade. For job seekers who choose construction, the best opportunities will be in projects at electric utilities, educational facilities, and water supply facilities. In 1998, housing starts are expected to total 1.41 million, a 1 percent increase over 1997.
Construction is likely to remain strongest in the Midwest and the South.
Building trade workers such as architects, bricklayers, concrete masons, and sheet metal workers will see only average growth in their industries through 2005. In engineering, the best opportunities through 2005 are in the civil, industrial, and electrical sectors. Aerospace engineers will continue to face fierce competition and chemical engineers will have more opportunities with companies that focus on developing specialty chemicals. Mass mailings are not recommended. Toll-free number provides information on scholarships for undergraduates.