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CIP 48.0511 Precision Production

Metal Fabricator

IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education · 2025

Total graduates

104

2025 · 7 schools

International share

0.0%

0 international students

Overview

A Metal Fabricator is a skilled professional who specializes in the creation and assembly of metal structures and components through various processes such as cutting, bending, welding, and assembling. This field plays a crucial role in numerous industries, including construction, manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and shipbuilding.

Metal fabricators utilize a variety of tools and machinery, including plasma cutters, laser cutters, lathes, and welding machines, to manipulate metal materials such as steel, aluminum, and iron. Their work often begins with interpreting blueprints and technical drawings to understand the required specifications and design. Attention to detail is vital, as even minor errors can lead to significant issues in the final product.

Training for a career as a metal fabricator typically includes vocational education, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training. Many technical schools and community colleges offer programs that cover essential skills, safety practices, and the use of fabrication equipment. Certification can also enhance job prospects, as it demonstrates a level of proficiency and knowledge in the field.

Metal fabricators are critical in ensuring that structures and products are built to last, meeting industry standards and safety regulations. As industries evolve and new technologies emerge, metal fabricators must stay updated with the latest techniques and materials to remain competitive in the job market. Overall, this profession is vital for the development of infrastructure and various manufactured goods, making it an essential component of the economy.

Graduates by year

Graduates by degree level (first and second majors)

AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral

From 2010 to 2025, graduates grew 3,367% and the international share went from 0.0% to 0.0%.

International share (%)
Graduates by group, 2025
White
75.0%
Asian
3.8%
Hispanic
5.8%
Black
3.8%
Other
11.5%
Intl.
0.0%

Colleges that award this degree

In 2025, 7 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings, plus the unranked schools with the most graduates.

RankSchoolStateGraduatesInternational
— Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology Pennsylvania 34 0
— Waukesha County Technical College Wisconsin 31 0
— Mohawk Valley Community College New York 18 0
— State Fair Community College Missouri 12 0
— Pennsylvania College of Technology Pennsylvania 5 0
— Helena College University of Montana Montana 2 0
— Columbia Gorge Community College Oregon 2 0

Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.

Related jobs and pay

OccupationUS employmentMean hourly wageMean annual wage
Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters 52,360 $25.98 $54,030

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.

Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2010–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.