As the population continues to age, more people will need custom shoes. This should increase the demand for workers who construct custom-made shoes. For other shoe and leather workers, most job openings will result from replacing workers who retire or leave this occupation. Preparation Shoe and leather workers and repairers generally learn their skills on the job. They either attend in-house training programs or work as helpers for experienced workers.
Helpers generally begin by performing simple tasks.
As they gain experience, trainees perform more difficult tasks. Trainees generally become fully skilled in six months to two years. The length of training varies by the nature of the work and the trainee's ability. A few schools offer vocational training in shoe repair and leather work. These program last from six months to one year.