However, fast growth in repairing and maintaining older buildings, factories, highways, and bridges will help keep workers busy. In addition, ironworkers will be needed to build structures to contain hazardous waste materials. The move to cleanup of toxic chemicals should continue to be strong. Although job growth will create some job openings, many jobs will open as workers retire or leave this occupation for other work. The number of job openings will vary from year to year because of economic conditions.
Many job openings appear during the spring and summer, when the most construction work is done.
Job opportunities vary by geographic area. During economic downturns, ironworkers often are unemployed because construction slows down. Preparation Most ironworkers learn their skills during an apprenticeship. Recommended high school courses are math, mechanical drawing, and shop. Ironwork apprenticeships are sponsored by ironwork unions or contractor's associations.