Custom Fabrication Jobs
A large variety of manufacturing process are utilized for custom fabrication. Manufacturing companies in the United States create custom components and parts to use on a wide array of equipment and machines. Some of the most common pieces made for custom fabrication jobs include extruding and molded rubber products as well as two-dimensional parts made from cork, fiberglass, plastic, rubber and textiles. Glass, steel and wood are three more materials that are also utilized, especially for composition-type and compressed rubber gaskets. The fabrication possibilities are numerous, making this career very much in demand.
Other Aspect of Custom Fabrication Jobs
There are other opportunities for custom fabricators besides working in the manufacturing and construction industries. Depending on the job description, a fabricator will be required to drill, punch, shear and weld various pieces of metal. A lot of fabricators specializing in customized designs are employed by welding contractors, fabrication companies and machine shops.
Custom fabricators also help build bridges and other structures by creating steel girders and other pieces necessary for project completion. Careers in this sector also include airplane assembly. Custom fabrication jobs require the worker to read blueprints in order to make metal designs as specified by the client. People who are interested in getting a career in custom fabrication will need to pursue a welding and fabrication technology degree.
Education Requirements
There are certain education requirements an individual must fulfill before looking for custom fabrication jobs. The needed welding and fabrication technology can be obtained at most technical institutes and colleges in the U.S. Students have the option of obtaining certification or pursuing a bachelors degree in metallurgy. Some of the standard coursework for this degree include blueprint reading, engineering basics, metal identification, metal surfacing and steel fabrication. Some degree programs even offer an apprenticeship program that allows students to learn under the tutelage of experienced metal working professionals in a "real-world" setting.
Necessary Skills for Custom Fabrication Jobs
In order to get custom fabrication jobs, people will need to possess certain, career-related skills. The most important skills needed for metal working include excellent coordination, math and mechanical skills. In addition, individuals will need to learn specific computer skills. And of course, it is essential for students to have the ability to understand blueprints as well as conceptualize drawings to make the correct, finished product. It is also helpful for a customized fabricator to have decent physical health because this career requires a great deal of bending, lifting and standing.
Growth and Outlook of Custom Fabrication Jobs
According to fabrication industry insiders, people can expect a six-percent increase in new custom fabrication jobs to be created in the U.S. throughout the next 10 years. The majority of these career opportunities will be specific to construction and industrial sectors. However, the fabrication industry may be influenced by the demand for other materials besides steel and sheet metal, such as plastics. Because of this, future custom fabricators should expect fluctuations in job opportunities. The typical custom fabricator in the U.S. can earn a yearly salary that ranges from $30,000-$56,000 USD. This information is based on the findings of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
