Steamfitting jobs offer a chance to develop a good career with a competitive salary. Steamfitters are knowledgeable technicians in piping systems who can install, maintain, and repair piping systems that transport liquids along with dry, wet, and high-temperature gases. Such pipelines are used for different purposes, e.g., steam generation, power generation, and industrial processes. Here’s a closer look at the steamfitting job outlook and five specialties that will likely experience increasing demand.
Ahead of the national average, job prospects for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitting technicians are estimated to grow in the future. However, there are some specializations within steamfitting in which higher demand is projected for the coming years.
BLS (the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics) estimates the job growth rate for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters combined to be 9% from 2022 to 2032, which translates to roughly 42,600 job openings annually. However, it’s important to note that this broad outlook encompasses the entire pipefitting field.
Several factors contribute to the positive job outlook for Steamfitters:
Let’s explore specific areas within steamfitting jobs poised for even more substantial growth.
The technicians who have steamfitter certifications are specialized in maintaining and ensuring the continuity of the steam systems utilized in houses, workplaces, and educational institutions. With an increasing number of aging buildings, the demand for experienced and knowledgeable employees who can diagnose and repair existing systems is growing rapidly.
Industrial steamfitters focus on installing, operating, and maintaining complicated steam systems used in industrial processes. With the rise in demand for various industries seeking effectiveness and increased operation, like food processing, pharmaceuticals, or chemical manufacturing, there is an increased chance of having jobs as industrial steamfitters to maintain such critical systems.
Hospitals and other healthcare centers rely on steam systems for sterilization and heating. Trained steamfitters with expertise in maintaining these specialized systems are in high demand to ensure the smooth operation of healthcare facilities.
Green steamfitting is an emerging specialization within steamfitter certifications. It focuses on sustainable steam systems that utilize renewable energy sources or optimize existing systems for lower emissions. As the focus on environmental responsibility grows, green steamfitters with knowledge of biofuels or geothermal systems will be increasingly sought after.
BIM, or Building information modeling, helps enhance the processes of designing, constructing, and managing buildings by creating three-dimensional digital models of structures. Steamfitters with BIM skills help produce streamlined steam systems and installations with minimum material waste. Hence, such steamfitting technicians are the assets of the construction industry.
There are two primary pathways to becoming a steamfitter:
Apprenticeship: This course takes the maximum number of 4 to 5 years. Steamfitting apprenticeships are both work-based and classroom-oriented, so they are a combination of training and classroom instruction.
Trade School: Another way to become a professional steamfitter is to enter a technical school. This way, the trainee will gain the knowledge base and skill set required before enrolling in an apprentice program.
While the overall outlook for Steamfitters is positive, several factors can influence the job market in specific regions or industries. These include:
Becoming a steamfitter can be an excellent career choice. The job outlook for steamfitters remains positive, and there is a steady need for skilled professionals. By specializing in building maintenance, industrial applications, healthcare facilities, green steamfitting, or BIM, steamfitters can position themselves for success in a growing and dynamic field.
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