The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that the construction industry will need to attract 240,000 workers each year to replace those leaving or retiring from the industry, while still allowing for industry growth.
ProPipe's Mechanical Contractors division works on heating, ventilation and air-conditioning unit installations; process/industrial piping; lab/medical gas systems; and equipment installations for commercial and industrial projects. ProPipe's Sheetmetal Systems division designs, manufactures and installs ductwork systems for commercial, industrial and educational facilities.
In general, mechanical contractors install and service heating, ventilating, air-conditioning and refrigeration systems, as well as fire sprinklers, plumbing and process piping.
Because mechanical contracting is a part of the construction industry, young people do not always see it as a prestigious career direction, said Mark McLaughlin, public relations specialist for Illinois-based Nehlsen Communications. He added that careers in construction face negative image perceptions. For example, when rating the 250 best work opportunities in the Jobs Rated Almanac [sixth edition, 2002], he said construction jobs ranked at relatively low levels — heating/refrigeration mechanics appeared at No. 161, welders came in at No. 227, and construction workers finished at No. 247."
The retirement of older workers is also a great concern. According to the BLS, the average construction worker is 47 years old.
To help attract and recruit more students into the industry, several national and local organizations offer scholarship and educational programs.
Education is also a necessity to those entering this field at this time. To work in the mechanical contracting field, a college education is necessary, whether the employee has a degree in mechanical engineering or takes heating and air conditioning courses, computer courses or drafting.
