Welders and related machine operators in Red Deer

The employment outlook will be Limited for welders and related machine operators (NOC 72106) in the Red Deer region for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

• Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
• Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
• There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

• Employment prospects for welders are tightening due to slower growth in key sectors, fewer job openings, a steady supply of experienced workers, and project delays in energy and infrastructure.

Here are some key facts about welders and related machine operators in the Red Deer region:

• Approximately 1,660 people work in this occupation.
• Welders and related machine operators mainly work in the following sectors:
  • Other services (except public administration) (NAICS 81): 28%
  • Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 18%
  • Machinery manufacturing (NAICS 333): 11%
  • Mining and quarrying (NAICS 212): 10%
  • Construction (NAICS 23): 9%