Nature of the work:
Boilermakers and boilermaker mechanics make, install, and repair boilers, vats, and other large vessels that hold liquids and gases. Boilers supply steam to drive huge turbines in electric power plants and to provide heat and power in building, factories, and ships. Tanks and vats are used to process and store chemicals, oil, beer, and hundreds of other products.

Employment Environment:
Boilermakers must be physically fit and able to work as part of a team. The environment can be cramped and in some instances, work may be done at high elevation for an extended period. Boilermakers often use equipment such as acetylene torches and power grinders, handle heavy parts, and work on ladders or on top of large vessels.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
Many boilermakers learn this trade through a formal apprenticeship. Others become boilermakers through a combination of trade or technical school training and employer-provided training.

The Apprenticeship:
The apprenticeship programs usually consists of three to four year of on-the-job- training, supplemented by a minimum of 144 hours of classroom instruction each year in subjects such as set-up and assembly rigging, welding of all types, blueprint reading, and layout. Those with welding training or a welding certification will have priority in applying for apprenticeship programs.

Advancement:
Some boilermakers advance to supervisory position. Because of their broader training, Apprentices usually have an advantage in promotion over those who have not gone through the full program.

Job Outlook:
Average growth in employment of boilermakers is expected through the year 2014. Addition openings will be created by the need to replace experienced workers who are expected to retire in great number in the next 10 years. Unionized boilermakers are eligible to retire earlier than many other workers, partly due to the physically demanding nature of the work.

Nature of the work:
Bricklayers, brickmasons, blockmasons, tilesetters, and stonemasons work in closely related trades creating attractive, durable surfaces and structures. Brickmasons and blockmasons (who often are called simply bricklayers) build and repair walls, floors, partitions, fireplaces, chimneys, and other structures with brick, precast masonry panels, concrete black, and other masonry materials. Some brickmasons specialize in installing firebrick linings in industrial furnaces. Stonemasons build stone walls, as well as set stone exteriors and floors. They work with two types of stone - natural cut stone, such as marble, granite, and limestone; and artificial stone made from concrete, marble chips, or other masonry materials. Stonemasons usually work on nonresidential structures, such as houses of worship, hotels, and office buildings, but the also work on residences.

Employment Environment:
Bricklayers usually work outdoors, but in contrast to the past when work slowed down in the winter months, new processes and materials are allowing these masons to work in a greater variety of weather conditions. Masons must be physically fit as the work requires standing, kneeling, bending and lifting heavy materials.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
Suggested preparation includes strong aptitude in mathematics including algebra, geometry, and mechanical drawing. While bricklayers often pick up their skills informally, many others receive training in vocational education schools or from industry-based programs. Another way to learn these skills is through an apprenticeship program, which generally provides the most thorough training.

The Apprenticeship:
Apprentices often start by working with laborers, carry materials, mixing mortar, and building scaffolds. This period generally lasts about a month and familiarizes the apprentice with job routines and materials. Next, apprentices learn to lay, align, and join brick and block. They may also learn on the job or before they are hired to work with stone and concrete, which enables them to work with more than one masonry material.

Advancement:
With additional training and experience, bricklayers may become supervisors for masonry contractors. Some eventually become owners of businesses employing many workers and may spend most their time as managers rather than as brickmasons, blockmasons, or stonemasons. Others move into closely related areas such as construction management or building inspection.

Job Outlook:
Job opportunities for bricklayers/masons are expected to be very good through 2014. A large number of masons are expected to retire over the next decade and in some areas there are not enough applicants for the skilled masonry jobs to replace those that are leaving. Nearly 1 out of 3 bricklayers/masons are self-employed. Many of the self-employed are contractors that work on small jobs, such as patios, walkways, and fireplaces.

Nature of the work:
Cement masons place and finish concrete, one of the most common and durable materials used in construction. Cement masons use concrete to build residential and commercial concrete floors, sidewalks, driveways, steps, curb and gutter, and concrete highways. They also may color and/or stamp concrete surfaces or expose aggregate (small stones) in walls and sidewalks. In preparing a site for placing concrete, cement masons first set the forms for holding the concrete and properly align them. They then direct the pouring of the concrete and supervise laborers who use shovels or special tools to spread it. Masons then guide a straightedge back and forth across the top of the forms to “screed,” or level, the freshly placed concrete. Throughout the entire process, cements masons must monitor how the wind, heat, or cold affects the curing of the concrete. They must have a thorough knowledge of concrete characteristics so that, by using sight and touch, they can produce a great cement product.

Employment Environment:
A cement mason must be physically fit and may be required to carry and handle weights of up to 100 pounds. The job often demands long hours of physical labor. Teamwork is essential as well as self-discipline when working alone. Fine craftsmanship skills, precision and finesses are also necessary qualities.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
Most cement masons learn their trades either through on-the-job training programs consist of informal instruction, in which experienced workers teach helpers to use the tools, equipment, machines, and materials of the trade. Trainees begin with tasks such as edging, jointing, and using a straightedge on freshly placed concrete. As training progresses, assignments become more complex, and trainees can usually do finishing work within a short time.

The Apprenticeship:
The program consists of 4000 hours of on-the-job training and another 160 hours of classroom instruction is required per year. To remain in good standing an apprentice must fulfill the educational requirements and make steady progress. In the classroom, apprentices learn applied mathematics, blueprint reading, and safety. Apprentices generally receive special instruction in layout work and cost estimation. In Spokane, a free six week training course is offered every spring to train new apprentices.

Advancement:
With additional training, cement masons may become supervisors for masonry contractors, or move into construction management, building inspection, or contract estimation. Some eventually become owners of businesses, for whom taking business classes will help to prepare workers for operating a business.

Job Outlook:
Opportunities for cement masons are expected to be good, particularly for those with the most experience and skills. Employers report difficulty in finding workers with the right skills, as many qualified job seekers often prefer work that is less strenuous and has more comfortable working conditions. Workers will be needed to build new highways, bridges, factories, and other residential and nonresidential structures to meet the demand of a growing population. Additionally, cement masons will be needed to repair and renovate existing highways and bridges, which are deteriorating rapidly, and other aging structures.

Nature of the work:
Civil engineers design and supervise the construction of roads, buildings, airports, tunnels, dams, bridges, and water supply and sewage systems. They must consider many factors in the design process, from the construction costs and expected lifetime of a project to government regulation and potential environmental hazards such as earthquakes. Civil engineering, considered one of the oldest engineering disciplines, encompasses many specialties. The major specialties are structural, water resources, construction, environmental, transportation, and geotechnical engineering. Many civil engineers hold supervisory or administrative positions, from supervisor of a construction site to city engineer. Others may work in design, construction, research, and teaching.

Employment Environment:
Most engineers work in office buildings, laboratories,  or industrial plants. Others may spend time outdoors at construction sites and oil and gas exploration and production sites, where they monitor or direct operation or solve onsite problems. Some engineers travel extensively to plants or worksites. Many engineers work a standard 40-hour week. At times, deadlines or design standards may bring extra pressure to a job, requiring engineers to work longer hours.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
A bachelor’s degree in engineering is required for almost all entry-level engineering jobs. Many colleges offer 2 or 4-year degree programs in engineering technology. Graduates of 4-year technology programs may get jobs similar to those obtained by graduates with a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Engineering technology graduates, however, are not qualified to register as professional engineers under the same terms as graduates with degrees in engineering. Some employers regard technology program graduates as having skills between those of a technician and an engineer.

Admissions requirements for undergraduate engineering schools include a solid background in mathematics (algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus) and science (biology, chemistry, and physics), with courses in English, social studies, and humanities. In a typical 4-year college curriculum, the first 2 years are spent studying mathematics, basic sciences, introductory engineering, humanities, and social sciences. In the last 2 years, most courses are in engineering, usually with a concentration in one specialty. All 50 States and the District of Columbia require licensure for engineers who offer their services directly to the public. This licensure generally requires a degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program, 4 years of relevant work experience, and successful completion of a State examination.

Advancement:
As new engineers gain knowledge and experience, they are assigned more difficult projects with greater independence to develop designs, solve problems, and make decisions. Engineers may advance to become technical specialists or to supervise a staff or team of engineers and technicians. Some may eventually become engineering managers or enter other managerial or sales jobs.

Job Outlook:
Spurred by general population growth and an increased emphasis on infrastructure security, more civil engineers will be needed to design and construct safe and higher capacity transportation, water supply, and pollution control systems, as well as large buildings and building complexes. They also will be needed to repair or replace existing roads, bridges, and other public structures. Because construction and related industries (including those providing design services) employ many civil engineers, employment opportunities will vary be geographic area and may decrease during economic slowdowns, when construction often is curtailed.

Click here to get more information at the Operating Engineers site.

Nature of the work:
CNC machinists produce precision parts using computer-controlled lathes and milling centers. They set up can operate a variety of machine tools using their knowledge of the working properties of metals. They select the tools and materials, make basic computations and read precision measuring instruments to determine the dimension of the parts. They observe the machines during operations and make adjustments to the machine and computer controls to correct errors or improve performance.

Employment Environment:
Most machine shops are clean, well lit, and ventilated. Most modern CNC machines are partially or totally enclosed, minimizing the exposure of workers to noise, debris, and the lubricants used to cool work pieces during machining. Nevertheless, working around machine tools presents certain dangers, and workers must follow safety precautions. Computer controlled machine tools operators, metal and plastic, wear protective equipment, such as safety glasses to shield against bits of flying metal and earplugs to dampen machinery noise. They also must exercise caution when handling hazardous coolants and lubricants. The job requires stamina because operators stand most of the day and, at times, may need to lift moderately heavy work pieces.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
Programs focus on skills used in a modern machine shop, including machine shop math, blueprint reading, and conventional machine tool theory. In the first year the program focuses on machine shop math, blueprint reading, and machine tool theory lab. The second year offers more specialized training in quality control and CNC theory and procedures.

Employers prefer to hire workers who have a basic knowledge of computers and electronics and experience with machine tools. Persons interested in becoming computer control programmers or operators should be mechanically inclined, have aptitude in math and computers and be able to work independently and do highly accurate work.

Advancement:
As new automation is introduced, computer control programmers and operators normally receive additional training to update their skills. This training usually is provided by a representative of the equipment manufacturer or a local technical school. Experienced CNC operators may become CNC programmers, and some are promoted to supervisory or administrative positions in their firms. Some open their own shops. Students considering transferring should consult with college counselors to check for transferability of credits.

Job Outlook:
Due to the limited number of people entering training programs, employers are expected to continue to have difficulty finding workers with the necessary skills and knowledge. However, despite increases in use of CNC machines, advances in manufacturing technology will further automate the production process, boosting CNC operator productivity and limiting employment.

Nature of the work:
Commercial carpenters construct, erect, install, and repair structures and fixtures made from wood and other materials. They do interior and exterior finish work, work with drywall and metal studs, and install other interior systems, welding and many other related work processes. They also must read blueprints, and must measure accurately and calculate dimensions. They may be involved in the original construction or remodel of almost every kind of structure.

Employment Environment:
Carpentry work required physical fitness, as is true of other building trades. Prolonged standing, climbing, bending, and kneeling often are necessary. Although many carpenters work indoors, those that work outdoors are subject to variable weather conditions.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
To become a skilled carpenter usually takes between three and four years of both classroom and on-the-job training. For some, training can begin in a high school, where classes in English, algebra, geometry, physics, mechanical drawing, blueprint reading, and general shop are recommended.

After high school, there are a number of different avenues that one can take to obtain the necessary training. Some work on the job to learn the necessary skills while others attend training. Entry-level employees start as helpers, assisting more experienced workers. During this time, the carpenter’s helper may elect to attend a trade or vocational school, or community college to receive further trade-related training. Many learn this trade through a formal apprenticeship program.

The Apprenticeship:
This program requires 5,200-8,000 (approximately four years) hours to complete and attendance at related training classes for a minimum of 160 hours per year.

Advancement:
Carpenters usually have greater opportunities than most other construction workers to become general construction supervisors because carpenters are exposed to the entire construction process. Carpenters may advance to carpentry supervisor or general construction supervisor positions. Others may become independent contractors.

Job Outlook:
Job opportunities for carpenters are expected to be excellent over the 2004-2014 period, particularly for those with the most skills. Contractors report having trouble finding skilled carpenters to fill many of their openings, due in part to the fact that many jobseekers are not inclined to go into construction, preferring work that is less strenuous with more comfortable working conditions. Carpenters with all-round skills will have better opportunities for steady work than carpenters who can perform only a few relatively simple, routine tasks.

Nature of the work:
Electricians install, connect, test, and maintain electrical systems for a variety of purposes, including climate control, security, and communications. They generally specialize in construction or maintenance work, although a growing number do both. Construction electricians primarily install wiring systems into new homes, businesses, and factories, but they also rewire or upgrade existing electrical systems as needed. Electricians specializing in maintenance work primarily maintain and upgrade existing electrical systems and repair electrical equipment.

Employment Environment:
Electricians work both indoors and out; at construction sites, in homes, and in businesses or factories. Work may be physically demanding at times and include bending conduit, lifting heavy objects, and standing, stooping, and kneeling. Most electricians work a standard 40- hour week, although sometimes overtime may be necessary.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
Most electricians learn their trade through apprenticeship programs. These programs combine on-the-job training with related classroom instruction. Because of the comprehensive training received, those who complete apprenticeship programs qualify to do both maintenance and construction work.

Skills needed to become an electrician include manual dexterity, eye-have coordination, physical fitness, and a good sense of balance. The ability to solve arithmetic problems quickly and accurately also is required. Good color vision is needed because workers frequently must identify electrical wires by color. In addition, a good work history or military service is viewed favorably by apprenticeship committees and employers.

Most localities require electricians to be licensed. Although licensing requirements vary from area to area, electricians usually must pass and examination that tests their knowledge of electrical theory, the Nation Electrical Code, and local electric and building codes.

The Apprenticeship:
This program consists of 2,000-10,000 hours on-the-job training. Additionally, 144-216 hours of classroom instruction is required per year.

Advancement:
Experienced electricians can advance to jobs as supervisors. In construction they also may become project managers or construction superintendents. Many electricians also become electrical inspectors.

Job Outlook:
As the population and economy grow, more electricians will be needed to install and maintain electrical devices and wiring in homes, factories, offices, and other structures. New technologies also are expected to continue to stimulate the demand for these workers. For example, buildings need to increasingly accommodate the use of computers and telecommunications equipment. Additional jobs will be created as older structures are rehabilitated and retrofitted, which usually requires that they be brought up to meet existing electrical codes.

Nature of the work:
Construction laborers work on highway construction projects and utility and building constructions sites. They can be found at building, highway, and heavy construction sites; tunnel and shaft excavations; and demolitions sites. Many of the jobs they perform require physical strength and some training and experience. While most construction laborers tend to specialize in a type of construction, such as highway or tunnel construction, they are generalists who perform many different tasks during all stages of construction. However, construction laborers who work in underground construction, such as in tunnels or in demolition are more likely to specialize in only those areas. Construction laborers often help other craftworkers, including carpenters, plasterers, operating engineers, and masons.

Employment Environment:
Most laborers do physically demanding work. Laborers should be capable of working as a member of a team and have basic problem-solving and math skills. Employers want workers who are hard-working, reliable, and diligent about being on time. Additionally, construction laborers who wish to work in environmental remediation must pass a physical test that measures the ability to wear protective equipment such as respirators. Computer sills also are important as construction becomes increasingly mechanized and computerized.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
High school classes in English, mathematics, physics, mechanical drawing, blueprint reading, welding, and general shop are recommended. Laborers need manual dexterity, eye-hand coordination, good physical fitness, an ability to work as a member of a team, and a good sense of balance. The ability to solve arithmetic problems quickly and accurately also is a plus.

The most skilled laborers usually have more formalized training. Training can be either strictly on-the-job or an apprenticeship program consisting of on-the-job training combined with in-class work.

The Apprenticeship:
The apprenticeship lasts 2 to 3 years, with 4,000 hours of on-the-job training and approximately 320 hours of classroom training at no out-of-pocket cost to the apprentice.

Advancement:
Laborers may advance to become construction supervisors or general contractors. Supervisors and contractors need good communication skills in order to deal with clients and subcontractors. Supervisors and contractors should be able to identify and estimate the quantity of materials needed to complete a job, and accurately estimate how long a job will take to complete and at what cost. Computer skills also are important for advancement as construction becomes increasingly mechanized and computerized.

Job Outlook:
Job opportunities are expected to be good due to the numerous openings that rise each year as laborers leave the occupation. Opportunities will be best for those with broad experience, specialized skills, and for those willing to relocate to areas with new construction projects. Opportunities will also be good for laborers specializing in concrete, pipe laying and mason tending.

Click here to get more information at Northwest Laborers-Employers Training Trust Fund.

Nature of the work:
Construction managers plan, direct, and coordinate a wide variety of construction projects, including the building of all types of residential, commercial, and industrial structures, roads, bridges, wastewater treatment plants, and schools and hospitals. Construction managers may oversee an entire project or just part of a project and, although they usually play no direct role in the actual construction of a structure, they typically schedule and coordinate all design and construction processes, including the selection, hiring, and oversight of specialty trade contractors. Construction managers coordinate and supervise the construction process from the conceptual development stage through final construction, making sure that the project gets done on time and within budget. They often work with owners, engineers, architects, and others who are involved in the construction process. Given the designs for buildings, roads, bridges, or other projects, construction managers oversee the planning, scheduling, and implementation of the project to execute those designs.

Employment Environment:
Construction managers usually work out of a main office from which the overall construction project is monitored, or out of a field office at the construction site. Management decisions regarding daily construction activities generally are made at the jobsite. Managers may travel extensively when the construction site is not close to their main office or when they are responsible for activities at two or more sites. They may be “on call” to deal with delays. Most work more than a standard 40-hour week because construction may proceed around-the-clock.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
Persons interested in becoming a construction manager need a solid background in building science, business and management, as well as related work experience within the industry. They need to understand contracts, plans, specifications, construction methods, materials, regulations, and be familiar with computers. They must have the ability to coordinate several activities at once, while analyzing and resolving specific problems. Good oral and written communication skills also are important as are leadership skills. Managers must be able to establish a good working relationship with many different people, including owners, other managers, designers, supervisors, and craftworkers. Practical industry experience is very important, whether it is acquired through an internship, a cooperative education program, or work experience in a trade or another job in the industry. For construction manager jobs, employers increasingly prefer to hire individuals with a bachelor’s degree in construction science, construction management, or civil engineering, as well as industry work experience.

Advancement:
Advancement opportunities vary depending upon an individual’s performance and the size and type of company for which they work. Within large firms, managers may eventually become top-level managers or executives. Highly experienced individuals may become independent consultants; some serve as expert witnesses in court or as arbitrators in disputes.

Job Outlook:
Excellent employment opportunities for construction managers are expected through 2014 because the number of job openings will exceed the number of qualified individuals seeking to enter the occupation. This situation is expected to continue even as college construction management programs expand to meet the current high demand for graduates.

Nature of the work:
Diesel service technicians and mechanics, which include bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists, repair and maintain the diesel engines that power transportation equipment such as heavy trucks, buses, and locomotives. Some diesel technicians and mechanics also work on heavy vehicles and mobile equipment, including bulldozers, cranes, road graders, farm tractors, and combines. Other technicians repair diesel-powered passenger automobiles, light trucks, or boats.

Employment Environment:
Diesel technicians usually work indoors, although they occasionally make repairs to vehicles on the road. Diesel technicians may lift heavy parts and tools, handle greasy and dirty parts, and stand or lie in awkward positions to repair vehicles and equipment. Technicians normally work in will-lighted, heated, and ventilated areas; however, some shops are drafty and noisy.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
Although many persons qualify for diesel service technician and mechanic jobs through years of on-the-job training, authorities on diesel engines recommend the completion of a formal diesel engine training program. Employers prefer to hire graduates of formal training programs because those workers often have a head start in training and are able to advance quickly to the journey level of diesel service. Unskilled beginners generally are assigned tasks such as cleaning parts, fueling and lubricating vehicles, and driving vehicles into and out of the shop. Beginners usually are promoted to trainee positions as they gain experience in automobile service start as trainee technicians.

The Apprenticeship:
This program consists of 4,000-8,000 hours (two to fours years) of on-the-job training. Additionally, apprentices must complete 144-201 hours of classroom training each year.

Advancement:
Experienced diesel service technicians and mechanics with leadership ability may advance to shop supervisor or service manager. Technicians and mechanics with sales ability sometimes become sales representatives. Some open their own repair shops. Voluntary certification by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is the recognized industry credential for diesel service technicians and mechanics. Diesel service technicians may be certified as master medium/heavy truck technicians, master school bus technicians, or master truck equipment technicians. They may also be ASE-certified in specific areas of truck repair, such as gasoline engines, drivetrains, brakes, suspension and steering, electrical and electronic systems, or preventive maintenance and inspection.

Job Outlook:
Employment of diesel service technicians and mechanics is expected to grow as freight transportation by truck increases. Additional trucks will be needed to keep pace with increasing volume of freight shipped nationwide. Besides openings resulting from employment growth, opportunities will be created by the need to replace workers who retire or transfer to other occupations.

Nature of the work:
Drafters prepare technical drawings and plans used by production and construction. Drafters’ drawings provide visual guidelines; show the technical details of the products and structures; and specify dimensions, materials, and procedures. Drafters fill in technical details using drawings, rough sketches, specifications, codes, and calculations previously made by engineers, surveyors, architects, or scientists. Drafters use technical handbooks, table, calculators, and computers to complete their work.

Employment Environment:
Most drafters work a standard 40-hour week; only a small number work part time. Drafters usually work in comfortable offices furnished to accommodate their tasks. They may site at adjustable drawing boards or drafting tables when doing manual drawings, although most drafters work at computer terminals much of the time.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
Individuals planning careers in drafting should take courses in mathematics, science, computer technology, design, and computer graphics, as well as any high school drafting courses available. Mechanical ability, visual aptitude and good communication skills are important. Prospective drafters should be able to draw well and perform detailed work accurately and neatly. Artistic ability is helpful in some specialized fields. Employers prefer applicants who have completed postsecondary school training in drafting. The American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) has established a certification program for drafters. Although employers usually do not require drafters to be certified, certification demonstrates an understanding of nationally recognized practices and standards of knowledge.

Advancement:
Entry-level or junior drafters usually do routine work under close supervision. After gaining experience, they may become intermediate drafters and progress to more difficult work with less supervision. At the intermediate level, they may need to exercise more judgment and perform calculations when preparing and modifying drawings. Drafters may eventually advance to senior drafter, designer, or supervisor. Many employers pay for continuing education, and, with appropriate college degrees, drafters may go on to become engineering technicians, engineers, or architects.

Job Outlook:
Industrial growth and increasingly complex design problems associated with new products and manufacturing processes will increase the demand for drafting services. However, drafters tend to be concentrated in slowly growing or declining manufacturing industries. CADD systems that are more powerful and easer to use also should limit demand for lesser skilled drafters as simple tasks are increasingly done quickly and easily by other drafters or other technical professionals, resulting in slower-than-average overall employment growth. Opportunities should be best for individuals with at least 2 years of postsecondary training skills, as well as considerable experience with CADD systems.

Nature of the work:
Elevator installers and repairers assemble, install, and replace elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters, mobbing walkways, and similar equipment in new and old buildings. Once the equipment is in service, they maintain and repair it as well. They also are responsible for modernizing older equipment. Elevator installers and repairers usually specialize in installation, maintenance, or repair work. Maintenance and repair workers generally need greater knowledge of electricity and electronics than do installers, because a large part of maintenance and repair work is troubleshooting. Similarly, adjusters need a thorough knowledge of electricity, electronics, and computers to ensure that newly installed elevators operate properly.

Employment Environment:
Most elevator installers and repairers work a 40-hour week. However, overtime is required when essential elevator equipment must be repaired, and some workers are on 24-hour call. Unlike most elevator installers, workers who specialize in elevator maintenance are on their own most of the day and typically service the same elevators periodically.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
Elevator installers and repairers learn their trade in a program administered by local join educational committees representing the employers and the union. There programs, through which the apprentice learns everything from installation to repair, combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction in blueprint reading, electrical and electronic theory, mathematics, applications of physics, and safety. High school courses in electricity, mathematics, and physics provide a useful background. As elevators become increasingly sophisticated, workers may find it necessary to acquire more advanced formal education – for example, in a postsecondary technical school or junior college – with an emphasis on electronics. Workers with more formal education, such as an associate degree, usually advance more quickly than do their counterparts without a degree.

The Apprenticeship:
The apprenticeship lasts 4 years, with 6,800 hours of on-the-job training and approximately 144 hours of classroom training per year. To be classified as a fully qualified elevator installer or repairer, union trainees must pass a standard examination administered by the National Elevator Industry Educational Program.

Advancement:
Some installers may receive further training in specialized areas and advance to the position of mechanic-in-charge, adjuster, supervisor, or elevator inspector. Other workers may move into management, sales, or product design jobs. Many elevator installers and repairers also receive training from their employers or through manufacturers to become familiar with a particular company’s equipment. Retraining is very important if a worker is to keep abreast of technological developments in elevator repair. In fact, union elevator installers and repairers typically receive continual training throughout their careers, through correspondence courses, seminars, or formal classes. Although voluntary, this training greatly improves one’s chances for promotion and retention.

Job Outlook:
Demand for additional elevator installers depends greatly on growth in nonresidential construction, such as commercial office buildings and stores that have elevators and escalators. This sector of the construction industry is expected to grow during the decade in response to expansion of the economy. In addition, the need to continually update and repair old equipment, expand access to the disabled, and install increasingly sophisticated equipment and computerized controls also should add to the demand for elevator installers and repairers.

Nature of the work:
Operating engineers operate, repair and maintain all types of self-propelled mechanically, electrically, electronically, hydraulic, automatic, or remote controlled equipment such as cranes, bulldozers, pavers, trench excavators and many other kinds of equipment used in construction buildings, dams, airports, and highways. They also work in the sand and gravel, cement and asphalt industries; in the shipyards; on the water with dredges, oil refineries, oil pipelines, sewer and water construction, ports of major cities, municipal work with cities and counties, landscaping, scrap metal work, and the forest products industry. Operating engineer apprentices can also work in the mechanical field as heavy-duty truck and equipment mechanics and in the field of technical engineer (surveyor).

Employment Environment:
Many construction equipment operators work outdoors, in nearly every type of climate and weather condition. Bulldozers, scrapers, and especially tampers and piledrivers are noisy and shake the operator; therefore operators need to be physically capable of working in these kind of conditions. Operators need manual dexterity, hand-eye coordination, good problem solving skills, and the ability to comprehend all warning signs on a construction site.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
Some construction equipment operators train in formal operating engineer apprenticeship programs administered by union-management committees of the International Union of Operating Engineers and the Associated General Contractors of America. Because apprentices learn to operate a wider variety of machines than do other beginners, they usually have better job opportunities. Technologically advanced construction equipment has computerized controls and improved hydraulics and electronics, requiring more skill to operate. Operators of such equipment may need more training and some understanding of electronics. Mechanical aptitude and high school training in automobile mechanics are helpful because workers may perform some maintenance on their machines.

Also, high school courses in science and mechanical drawing are useful. Operators need to be in good physical condition and have a good sense of balance, they ability to judge distance, and eye-hand-foot coordination.

The Apprenticeship:
This program is three years in length and requires 6,000 to 8,352 hours of on-the-job training with an additional 144 to 201 hours of supplemental classroom training per year.

Job Outlook:
Employment of diesel service technicians and mechanics is expected to grow as freight transportation by truck increases. Additional trucks will be needed to keep pace with increasing volume of freight shipped nationwide. Besides openings resulting from employment growth, opportunities will be created by the need to replace workers who retire or transfer to other occupations.

Nature of the work:
Structural and reinforcing iron and metal workers place and install iron or steel girders, columns, and other construction materials to form buildings, bridges, and other structures. They also position and secure steel bars or mesh in concrete forms in order to reinforce the concrete used in highways, buildings, bridges, tunnels, and other structures. In addition, they repair and renovate older buildings and structures. Even though the primary metal involved in this work is steel, these workers often are known as ironworkers.

Employment Environment:
Structural and reinforcing iron and metal workers usually work outside and construction sites. Ironworkers often work at great heights erecting the steel frameworks of skyscrapers, stadiums and bridges. Substantial physical strength is required to carry and place the reinforcing steel for concrete structures. “Tying iron” requires heavy lifting and bending. Some ironworkers fabricate structural metal in fabricating shops, which are usually located away from the construction site. Because materials used in iron working are heavy and bulky, ironworkers must be in good physical condition. They also need good agility, balance, eyesight, and depth perception to work safely at great heights on narrow beams and girders.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
Most employers recommend three to four years of on-the-job training through an apprenticeship program. Apprenticeship programs are administered by committees made up of representatives of local union of the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers or the local chapters of contractors’ associations.

The Apprenticeship:
The Spokane program is four years in length, consisting of 4,500-8,000 hours (three to four years) of on-the-job training, and 144-385 hours of classroom instruction on your own time to qualify for the journey level examination. Subjects taught include welding, math, rigging, blueprint reading, rebar, fabrication, caulking and sealant, and structural steel.

Advancement:
Some experienced workers are promoted to supervisor. Others may go into the contracting business for themselves. Good communication skills are important for advancement opportunities.

Job Outlook:
The rehabilitation, maintenance, and replacement of a growing number of older buildings, powerplants, highways, and bridges are expected to create employment opportunities for ironworkers. State and federal legislatures continue to support and fund the building of roads, which will secure jobs for the near future. In Addition to new jobs that arise, many job openings will result from the need to replace experienced ironworkers who leave the occupation or retire. Job openings for ironworkers usually are more abundant during the spring and summer months, when the level of construction activity increases.

Click here to get more information at NorthWest IronWorkers.

Nature of the work:
The vast networks of wires and cables that provide customers with electrical power and communications services are constructed and maintained by electrical power line installers and repairers and telecommunications line installers and repairers. While the work performed by telecommunications and electrical power line installers is quite similar, they are two distinct occupations. Working with power lines requires specialized knowledge of transformers, electrical power distribution systems, and substations. Working with telecommunications lines requires specialized knowledge of fiber optics and telecommunications switches and routers.

Employment Environment:
Line installers and repairers must climb and maintain their balance while working on poles and towers. They lift equipment and work in a variety of positions, such as stooping or kneeling. Their work often requires that they drive utility vehicles, travel long distances, and work outdoors under a variety of weather conditions. Many line installers and repairers work a 40-hour week; however, emergencies may require overtime work. Workers periodically travel in trucks, helicopters, and airplanes to visually insect the wires and cables.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
Employers of line installers and repairers usually require applicants to have at least a high school diploma. They also strongly prefer applicants with a technical knowledge of electricity or electronics, or experience obtained through vocational/technical programs, community colleges, or the Armed Forces. Line installers and repairers receive most of their training on the job. Electrical line installers and repairers often must complete formal apprenticeships or other employer training programs. These programs combine on-the-job training with formal classroom courses and are sometimes administered jointly by the employer and the union representing the workers. Government safety regulations strictly define the training and education requirements for apprentice electrical line installers. Prospective employees also should possess a basic knowledge of algebra and trigonometry, and have mechanical ability. A good driving record is important because workers often hold commercial driver’s licenses and operate company-owned vehicles.

The Apprenticeship:
This program requires 6,000-8,000 hours (three to four years) of on-the-job training. In addition, apprentices are required to attend 144-160 hours a year of related classroom studies that are provided through the apprenticeship program.

Advancement:
Entry-level line installers may be hired as ground workers, helpers, or tree trimmers, who clear branches from telephone and power lines. These workers may advance to positions stringing cable and performing service installations. With experience, they may advance to more sophisticated maintenance and repair positions responsible for increasingly larger portions of the network. Promotion to supervisory or training positions also is possible, but more advanced supervisory positions often require a college diploma.

Job Outlook:
With many line installers and repairers nearing retirement, job opportunities for new workers in this field should be very good. Some companies are expanding their hiring in anticipation of increased retirements. Most new jobs are expected to arise in the construction industry.

Nature of the work:
Machinists use machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, and machining centers, to produce precision metal parts. Although they may produce large quantities of one part, precision machinists often produce small batches or one-of-a-kind items. They use knowledge of the working properties of metal and skill with machine tools to plan complete the operations needed to make products that meet precise specifications.

Employment Environment:
Today, most machine shops are relatively clean, well lit, and ventilated. Many computer-controlled machines are partially or totally enclosed, minimizing the exposure of workers to noise, debris, and the lubricants used to cool work pieces during machining. Nevertheless, working around machine tools presents certain dangers, and workers must follow safety precautions. The job requires stamina, because machinists stand most of the day and, at times, may need to left moderately heavy work pieces. Modern factories extensively employ autoloaders and overhead cranes, reducing heavy lifting.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
Students interested in this field should be mechanically inclined and suited to do highly accurate work that requires concentration as well as physical effort. Prospective students should have good hand-eye coordination and be able to skillfully manipulate small objects. Students study the properties of metals and lean how machine tools can turn them into precision manufactured parts. Though hands-on experience, students lean to operate machines with the skill needed for entry-level positions in this field. Completing a recognized certifications program provides a machinist with better career opportunities.

First year students are introduced to a variety of machines and procedures, blueprint reading, measuring tools, cutting tools, and basic machine operations. Second year receives extensive instruction in advanced math, blueprint reading, and technical manuals and handbooks. Advanced shop work on the operation of machines is emphasized.

As new automation is introduced, machinists normally receive additional trining to update their skills. This training usually is provided by a representative of the equipment manufacturer or a local technical school.

Advancement:
Machines can advance in several ways. Experienced machinists may become CNC programmers, tool and die makers, or mold makers, or be promoted to supervisory or administrative positions in the firms. Some open their own shops. Students considering transferring should consult with college counselors to check for transferability of credits.

Job Outlook:
Many young people with the necessary educational and personal qualifications needed to obtain machining skills often prefer to attend college or may not swish to enter production occupations. Therefore, the number of workers obtaining the skills and knowledge necessary to fill machinist jobs is expected to be less than the number of job openings arising each year from the need to replace experienced machinists who transfer to other occupations or retire, and from job growth.

Nature of the work:
Painters apply paint, stain, varnish, and other finishes to buildings and other structures. They choose the right paint or finish for the surface to be covered, taking into account durability, ease of handling, method of application, and customers’ wishes. Painters first prepare the surfaces to be covered, so that the paint will adhere properly. Painters wash walls and trim to remove dirt and grease, fill nail holes and cracks, sandpaper rough spots, and brush off dust. Painters also mix paints and match colors, relying on knowledge of paint composition and color harmony.

Painters must be able to choose the right paint applicator for each job, depending on the surface to be covered, the characteristics of the finish, and other factors. When working on tall buildings, painters erect scaffolding, including “swing stages,” scaffolds suspended by ropes, or cables attached to roof hooks.

Employment Environment:
Most painters and paperhangers work 40 hours a week or less; about one-fourth have variable schedules or work part time. Painters must stand for long periods, often working from scaffolding and ladders. Their jobs also require a considerable amount of climbing and bending. These workers must have stamina, because much of the work is done with their arms raised overhead. Painters often work outdoors but seldom in wet, cold, or inclement weather.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
Painting and paperhanging is learned mostly through on-the-job training and by working as a helper to an experienced painter. However, there are a number of formal and informal training programs that provide more thorough instruction and a better career foundation. Apprenticeships are usually the best way to enter the profession. They generally provide a mixture of classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Apprenticeships for painters and paperhangers consist of 2 to 4 years of on-the-job training, supplemented by 144 hours of related classroom instruction each year. Apprentices or helpers generally must be 18 years old and in good physical condition. A high school education or its equivalent, with courses in mathematics, usually is required to enter an apprenticeship program.

The Apprenticeship:
This program requires 4,500-8,000 hours (three to four years) of on-the-job training, and 144-385 hours of classroom instruction on your own time to qualify for the journey level examination. Subjects taught include welding, math, rigging, blueprint reading, rebar, fabrication, caulking and sealant, and structural steel.

Advancement:
Painters and paperhangers may advance to supervisory or estimating jobs with painting and decorating businesses. Painting contractors need good English skills in order to deal with clients and subcontractors.

Job Outlook:
Job prospects should be excellent because each year thousands of painters retire or leave for jobs in other occupations. In addition to the need to replace experienced workers who leave, new jobs will be created. The most versatile painters generally are best able to keep working steadily during downturns in the economy.

Nature of the work:
Pipelayers, plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters install, maintain, and repair many different types of pipe systems. Although pipelaying, plumbing, pipefitting, and steamfitting sometimes are considered a sing trade, workers generally specialize in one of five areas. Pipeplayers lay clay, concrete, plastic, or cast-iron pipe for drains, sewers, water mains, and oil or gas lines. Plumbers install and repair the ware, waste disposal, drainage, and gas systems in homes and commercial and industrial buildings. Pipefitters install are repair both high and low pressure pipe systems used in manufacturing, in the generation of electricity, and in the heating and cooling of buildings. Steamfitters install pipe systems that move liquids or gasses under high pressure. Sprinklerfitters install automatic fire sprinkler systems in buildings.

Employment Environment:
Pipefitters and steamfitters most often work in industrial and power plants. Plumbers work in commercial and residential settings where water and septic systems need to be installed and maintained. Because pipelayers, plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters, frequently must lift heavy pipes and stand for long periods, they need physical strength as well as stamina. Those engaged in construction generally work a standard 40-hour week; those involved in maintaining pipe systems, including those who provide maintenance services under contract, may have to work evening or weekend shifts, as well as be on call.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
Pipelayers, plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters enter into the profession in a variety of ways. Most residential and industrial plumbers get their training in career and technical schools and community colleges and from on-the-job training. Pipelayers, plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters who work mainly for commercial enterprises are usually trained through formal apprenticeship programs. Apprenticeship programs generally provide the most comprehensive training available for these jobs. Apprenticeships consist of 4 or 5 years of on-the-job training, in addition to at least 144 hours per year of related classroom instruction. Classroom subjects include drafting and blueprint reading, mathematics, applied physics and chemistry, safety, and local plumbing codes and regulations.

The Apprenticeship:
This program requires 4,000-10,000 hours of on-the-job training and all apprentices are required to attend 144-1,000 hours related training classes.s.

Advancement:
With additional training, some pipelayers, plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters become supervisors for mechanical and plumbing contractors. Others especially plumbers, go into business for themselves, often starting as a self-employed plumber working from home.

Job Outlook:
Job opportunities are expected to be excellent, as demand for skilled pipelayers, plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is expected to outpace the supply of workers trained in this craft. Many employers report difficulty finding potential workers with the right qualifications. In addition, many people currently working in these trades are expected to retire over the next 10 years, which will create additional job openings.

Nature of the work:
New homes must be built for growing populations, and older homes must be renovated or replaced with new, more efficient ones. It takes a lot of skilled carpenters to create or renovate these structures expertly and efficiently. Residential carpentry is a challenging career because of the new building products, new styles, new tools, new technology and hard work which goes into today’s housing industry.

The residential carpenter is an all-around carpenter who has experience in just about every aspect of residential construction. Their skills are used in milling, fastening, joining, assembling, erecting and dismantling structural and architectural materials, and these are just some of the responsibilities a good residential carpenter will handle during a day’s work. Residential carpenters who remodel homes and other structures need a broad range of carpentry skills because they must be able to perform any of the many different tasks these jobs may require.

Residential carpenters are considered “master builders” because they are the primary craft workers on homes, apartments, and condos and make up the largest single group of skilled workers in the country.

Employment Environment:
Carpentry work requires physical fitness, as is true of other building trades. Prolonged standing, climbing, bending, and kneeling often are necessary. Many residential carpenters work both indoors and outdoors are subject to variable weather conditions.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
Specialized training keeps these specialty craft workers at the top of their game. To become a skilled residential carpenter usually takes four years of both classroom and on-the-job training. For some, training can begin in a high school, where classes in English, algebra, geometry, physics, mechanical drawing, blueprint reading, and general shop are recommended. After high school, there are a number of different avenues that one can take to obtain the necessary training. Some work on the job to learn the necessary skills while others attend training. Many learn this trade through a formal apprentice program, usually consisting of three to four years of on-the-job training, supplemented by a minimum of 144 hours or classroom instruction each year.

The Apprenticeship:
This program requires 8,000 hours of on-the-job training to complete and attendance at related supplemental training classes for 144 hours per year.

Advancement:
Advancement opportunities for residential carpenters are better than in other construction professions because they are involved in and exposed to the entire construction process. Residential carpenters may advance to lead carpenter, foreman, estimator, project manager or superintendent. Others may become independent contractors and own there own company.

Job Outlook:
Residential carpentry s a wide-open field with many job opportunities and the chance to increase your take-home pay as your craft skills grow. Job opportunities for carpentry are expected to be excellent over the 2004-2014 period, particularly for those with the most skills. Contractors report having trouble finding skilled carpenters to fill many of their openings, due in part to the fact that many job seekers are not inclined to go into construction, preferring work that is less strenuous with more comfortable working conditions.

Click here to get more information at Spokane Home Builders Association.

Nature of the work:
Roofers repair and install roofs made of tar or asphalt and gravel; rubber or thermoplastic; metal; or shingles made of asphalt, slate, fiberglass, wood, tile, or other material. Repair and re-roofing makes up a substantial portion of work for these workers. Because of their expertise in waterproofing roofs, some roofers also waterproof and damp-proof masonry and concrete walls and floors, including foundations.

Employment Environment:
Roofers need to be physically fit as the work can be strenuous and involve heavy lifting, as well as climbing, bending, and kneeling. Roofers work outdoors in all types of weather, particularly when making repairs.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
Most roofers acquire their skills informally by working as apprentices for experienced roofers and by taking classes. Safety training is one of the first classes that a worker takes. Trainees start by carrying equipment and material, and erecting scaffolds and hoists. Within 2 or 3 months, trainees are taught to measure, cut, and fit roofing materials are used infrequently, it can take several years to get experienced working on all the various type of roofing applications. Some roofers train through 3-year apprenticeship programs administered by local union-management committees representing roofing contractors and locals of the United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers, and Allied Workers.

The Apprenticeship:
This program requires 4,200 hours of on-the-job training, and 144 hours per year of supplemental classroom instruction.

Advancement:
Roofers may advance to supervisor or estimator for a roofing contractor, or become contractors themselves.

Job Outlook:
Employment of roofers is expected to grow as fast as average for all occupations through 2014. Roofs deteriorate faster and are more susceptible to weather damage than most other parts of buildings and periodically need to be repaired or replaced. Roofing has a much higher proportion of repair and replacement work than most other construction occupations. As a result, demand for roofers is less susceptible to downturns in the economy than demand for other construction trades. In addition to repair and re-roofing work on the growing stock of buildings, new construction of industrial, commercial, and residential buildings will add to the demand for roofers.

Nature of the work:
Sheet metal workers make, install, and maintain heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning duct systems; roofs; siding; rain gutters; downspouts; skylights; restaurant equipment; outdoor signs; railroad cars; tailgates; customized precision equipment; and many other products made from metal sheets. They also may work with fiberglass and plastic materials. Although some workers specialize in fabrication, installation, or maintenance, most do all three jobs. Sheet metal workers do both construction-related sheet metal work and mass production of sheet metal products in manufacturing.

Employment Environment:
Sheet metal workers usually work a 40- hour week. Those who fabricate sheet metal products work in shops that are well-lighted and well-ventilated. However, they stand for long periods and lift heavy materials and finished pieces. Sheet metal workers must follow safety practices, especially working around high-seed machines. Those performing installation work do considerable bending, lifting, standing, climbing, and squatting, sometimes in close quarters or in awkward positions.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
Sheet metal workers learn their trade through both formal and informal training programs. To become a skilled sheet metal worker usually takes 5 years of both classroom and on-the-job training. While there are a number of different ways to obtain this training, generally the more formalized the training received by an individual, the more thoroughly skilled become, and the more are likely to be in demand by employers. For some, this training can begin in high school where classes in English, algebra, geometry, physics, mechanical drawing and blueprint reading, and general shop are recommended.

After high school, there are a number of different avenues that one can take to obtain the necessary training. One of the ways is to obtain a job with a contractor who will then provide training on the job. Some employers, particularly large nonresidential construction contractors with union membership, offer formal apprenticeships. These programs combine on-the-job training with related classroom instruction.

The Apprenticeship:
This program requires 9,000 hours (5 years) of on-the-job training and 218 hours related classroom instruction.

Advancement:
Sheet metal workers in construction may advance to supervisory jobs. Some of these workers take additional training in welding and do more specialized work. Workers who perform building and system testing are able to move into construction and building inspection. Others go into the contracting business for themselves. Sheet metal workers in manufacturing may advance to positions as supervisors or quality inspectors.

Job Outlook:
Job opportunities are expected to be good for sheet metal workers in the construction industry, reflecting both employment growth and openings arising each year as experienced sheet metal workers leave the occupation. Opportunities should be particularly good for individuals who acquire apprenticeship training or who are certified welders. Job prospects in manufacturing will not be as good because a number of manufacturing plants that employ sheet metal workers are moving to lower wage parts of the country or abroad and the ones that remain are becoming more productive.

Click here to get more information at the Sheet Metal Apprentice Program site.

Nature of the work:
Welding is the most common way of permanently joining metal parts. In this process, heat is applied to metal pieces, melting and fusing them to form a permanent bond. Because of its strength, welding is used in shipbuilding, automobile manufacturing and repair, aerospace applications, and thousands of other manufacturing activities.

Welders use many types of welding equipment set up in a variety of positions, such as flat, vertical, horizontal, and overhead. They may perform manual welding, in which the work is entirely controlled by the welder, or semiautomatic welding, in which the welder uses machinery, such as a wire feeder to perform welding tasks.

Employment Environment:
Welders may work outdoors, sometimes in inclement weather, or indoors, sometimes in a confined area des to contain sparks and glare. Outdoors, they may work on a scaffold or platform high off the ground. In addition, they may be required to left heavy objects and work in a variety of awkward positions while bending, stooping, or standing to perform work overhead.

Training, Education, and Licensing:
Programs train the student in safe and correct procedures. Curse content also includes the safe use and care of hand and power equipment found in welding and fabrication shops. Some of the equipment includes overhead cranes, grinders, power saws, ironworker, cold saws, and drill presses. Coursework covers the basics of math, blueprint reading, fabrication & welding, building projects, materials estimates, cutting lists, assembly & welding, including the specialized welding processes.

Graduates work in a variety of settings as an apprentice/trainee. As an apprentice/trainee they attend additional company/union training and work on job sites for an additional 3000 – 8000 hours over 3 – 5 years.

Some welders become certified, a process whereby the employer sends a worker to an institution, such as an independent testing lab, equipment manufacturer, or technical school, to weld a test specimen according to specific codes and standards required by the employer.

Advancement:
Certificate program prepares students for entry-level employment in the field. Welders can advance to more skilled welding jobs with additional training and experience. For example, they may become welding technicians, supervisors, inspectors, or instructors. Some experienced welders open their own repair shops. Students considering transferring should consult with college counselors to check for transferability of credits.

Job Outlook:
Employment of welder/fabricators is expected to increase rapidly as a result of the favorable outlook for metalworking industries and the wider use of the welding process.

Many more welders will be needed for maintenance and repair work in the growing metalworking industries and in construction using welded steel structures. The number of welders in production work is expected to increase in plants fabricating metal products, boilers, storage tanks, ships, and other structural components.