Closing the Skills Gap

The manufacturing skills gap in the U.S. could result in 3.8 million unfilled jobs in the next decade, according to a study by Deloitte and The Manufacturing Institute. STI/SPFA is passionate about the trades and encourages students to explore rewarding careers in manufacturing.

Scholarship

STI/SPFA Scholarship

The STI/SPFA Scholarship, offered through the AWS Foundation, will be awarded annually to a student pursuing a career in welding, with preference given to those who wish to join the steel tank or steel pipe fabrication industry.

December 1: Applications open

December 1: Applications open

March 1: Deadline to apply

March 1: Deadline to apply

May-June: Selection announced

May-June: Selection announced

Advocacy

Workforce Development & Its Impact on the Steel Industry

STI/SPFA believes the narrative on trade school programs must fundamentally change so that high school students may better understand the benefits of working in the steel fabrication industry.

Explore

Top 6 Reasons to Explore a Career in Welding

Rewarding Work

Instead of being buried in student loans, welders make an average annual salary of $73,531, per the NCCER Construction Craft Salary Survey, and are one of the highest paying jobs in construction. Fabricate the tanks, vessels, and pipelines that make our economy move forward and protect the nation's food and water supplies, while setting yourself up for personal success.

Sense of Pride

The projects welders work on play a significant role in our society. Whether fabricating a steel tank for safe product storage or a pipeline to transfer clean water, the projects you work on will have a lasting impact for generations to come. With the longevity of steel, you'll be able to point to the products you worked on and tell your children and grandchildren, "I built that."

Technology

This isn't your grandfather's fabrication shop. Today's manufacturing plants employ cutting edge technology including robotic welders, AI, drones, and more. You'll build the tanks, vessels, and pipe of today using the technology of tomorrow.

Career Without Borders

Welding is a life skill that can be taken anywhere. Work indoors, work outdoors, and travel from state-to-state. You can even take your talents abroad and work internationally throughout the world. With this essential skill, your career has no boundaries.

A Skill That's in Demand

Welding has been around for hundreds of years and is always a skill that's in demand. The constant need for infrastructure development and product fabrication ensures a steady stream of opportunities.

Be Your Own Boss

Career advancement opportunities for welders are endless. From plant supervisor to sales or welding inspector to instructor, your career path is your own. You may even choose to start your own business one day!

Resources

Additional Resources

Find additional resources to begin your welding career in the steel fabrication industry.

American Welding Society (AWS)

AWS Foundation

STI/SPFA Scholarship Application

Build Your Future

NCCER

The Manufacturing Institute

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