Why Is Demand for Welders Up in Washington?

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While demand for welders fluctuates across regions, in Washington state, things are booming. Job growth for welders in WA is more than 3 times the national average and more than one thousand welder jobs are expected to be added each year through 2030. Some areas in Washington expect to add hundreds of job openings such as the Northwest, Southwest, Seattle King, Snohomish, Tacoma-Pierce, and the Olympic Consortium counties. Washington industries like aerospace, shipbuilding, clean energy, agriculture, and forestry, all need welders. So do the many infrastructure and construction projects throughout the state. Contributing further to the demand for welders in Washington is the fact that many Baby Boomer welders are nearing retirement. Whether you’re a welder wondering whether your skills are needed in Washington or are thinking about a new career, understanding why there’s such demand can help you make a sound decision.

Infrastructure Projects Boost Demand for Welders in Washington

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has pumped almost $10 billion in infrastructure funding into the State of Washington. Projects that need welders include bridge and road restoration, airport updates, and highway repair. And the state transportation department has projects in the pipeline, including the Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement Program, the Puget Sound Gateway Program, the Interstate Bridge Replacement, several highway repair programs, and the Ferry system electrification.

The Aerospace Rebound in Washington Impacts Welding Careers

Like many industries, aerospace took a hit during the pandemic. But in Washington, it’s seen a significant rebound. Aerospace manufacturing in Washington employs more than 75,000 workers, paying out more than $11 billion in wages. And the aerospace industry remains a top employer of welders.

As a welder in Washington’s aerospace industry, you might:

  • Fabricate and Assemble Aircraft and Spacecraft Parts
  • Weld Aerospace Components
  • Work with Exotic Alloys like Inconel, Titanium, and Magnesium
  • Interpret Blueprints and Schematics
  • Inspect and Test Welds Using X-ray, Ultrasonic, and Visual Inspection
  • Follow FAA Quality Management Standards
  • Operate and Maintain Equipment
  • Work with Engineers and Technicians
  • Performing Repairs and Modifications
  • Ensure Structural Integrity

Washington’s Maritime Industry Needs Welders

Another growth sector that needs welders is the maritime industry in Washington. Nearly a quarter of U.S. shipyards are located in WA and the industry generates more than $24 billion for the state and some $7.5 billion in annual wages.

Among areas where you might find work as a welder in Washington’s maritime industry are:

  • Maritime Logistics and Shipping
  • Fishing and Seafood Operations
  • Port and Harbor Welding
  • Ship and Boat Building
  • Naval and Submarine Repair
  • Commercial Fishing Vessel Maintenance
  • Vessel Dry Docking, Service, and Repair
  • Passenger Water Transportation
  • Marine Pipeline and Industrial
  • Boiler and Pressure Vessel

Additionally, the Northwest Seaport Alliance is the fourth-largest container gateway in North America and has opportunities for welders to help maintain maritime infrastructure and equipment.

Welders Needed to Maintain Washington’s Hydroelectric Power System

Another opportunity for welders comes from Washington’s commitment to renewable energy. More than 84 percent of Washington’s electricity comes from renewable sources, most of it through hydroelectric. As a welder working on hydroelectric systems, you play a crucial role in constructing, maintaining, and repairing components of hydroelectric dams, power plants, and water infrastructure. You make sure the facilities are structurally sound and performing at peak efficiency.

You might need to:

  • Build and Reinforce Hydroelectric Dams, Spillways, and Intake Structures
  • Weld Components of Turbines, Runners, Shafts, and Generators
  • Construct and Weld Pipes that Direct Water Flow
  • Fix Cracks, Leaks, or Corrosion
  • Weld and Resurface Worn Turbine Blades and Rotors
  • Maintain Spillway Gates, Sluice Gates, and Other Water Control Mechanisms

Washington’s Welding Workforce Is Aging

While the state’s industries and infrastructure growth are key factors in the demand for welders, the aging workforce is increasing the need even more. According to the American Welding Society, more than 20% of the welding workforce is over the age of 55 while less than 10% is under the age of 25. About 320,500 new welders will be needed by 2029 to replace those who are retiring out of the trade or leaving it altogether. That equates to about 80,000 jobs that will need to be filled annually.

Have you ever thought about welding as a career? There are many opportunities for you to use your skills across industries in Washington. Get started on a new career path today. Charter College offers a Certificate in Welding program at the Vancouver, WA campus that can prepare you for a career in this dynamic field. Our instructors have years of experience in this trade and can give you insight into what the job of a welder is really like. The program can be completed in as few as 10 months, so you can start the next chapter of your career within the next year. Call 888-200-9942 or fill out the form to learn more.