The American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers launched a workforce development web site to provide information for anyone seeking a career in the two industries. “The refining and petrochemical industries want to let people know that we are hiring,” AFPM Pres. Charles T. Drevna said. “If you have a high school degree, or if you have a college degree, we want you to consider a career in these industries.”
He said the fuel and petchem industries currently support nearly 2 million American jobs, and expect to support almost 3.9 million by 2025.
Based on a survey from the Associated General Contractors of America, 74% of the companies reported a shortage of craft professionals, Drevna said. This workforce deficit will continue to rise because many of today’s skilled workers are expected to retire in the next 5-10 years, he indicated.
“Demand for skilled craft workers and those with degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is currently high and will continue to grow,” AFPM’s president said. “The door is wide open for our military veterans, and to parents, teachers, or anyone who offers guidance to young people, take note: We have good, high paying jobs available, today and in the future.”
He said these companies offer high-paying career paths in a wide-range of disciplines for those who are not financially able to attend a 4-year college, or realize it is not the right path for them.
Opportunities for skilled workers include electricians, crane operators, welders, and ironworkers, among many other career options, according to Drevna. The average annual salary is $111,542 in refining and $88,800 in petrochemicals compared with the $62,063/year average wage in all US industries, he said.
In addition to the lack of available employees, 800,000 refining and petchem workers are expected to retire by 2017, Drevna added.
He said AFPM is taking the workforce development approach because it promotes economic development and jobs by focusing on people. Through education and training, workforce development programs seek to prepare the next generation of skilled and professional workers for high-demand careers in industries such as fuel and petrochemical manufacturing, Drevna said.
Contact Nick Snow at [email protected].