Metal Fabrication and Machinery Manufacturing Industry

June 2006

The Metal Fabrication and Machinery Manufacturing industry employed about 32,700 Albertans in 2005. The industry is expected to grow by a yearly average of 3.5 per cent, employing about 38,900 in 2010.

This information is based on Government of Canada statistics and projections for the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) groups 332 and 333. They include:
• machine shops
• boiler, tank and shipping container manufacturers
• manufacturers of agriculture, construction, mining, industrial, commercial and service industry machinery
• forging and stamping establishments
• cutlery and hand tool manufacturers
• architectural and structural metals manufacturers
• hardware manufacturers
• coating, engraving and heat treating establishments
• engine, turbine and power transmission equipment manufacturers.

Industry Outlook (Adapted from Alberta Careers Update 2004)

The Metal Fabrication and Machinery Manufacturing industry has prospered and significantly expanded largely in response to robust economic activity in Alberta. A strong Oil and Gas industry will maintain demand for metal products and machinery but the province is facing a shortage of welders, machinists and pipefitters.

Competition is intensifying in metal fabrication.

• Major project owners are consolidating and bidding practices are focusing more on cost reduction.
  
  
• Companies are seeking longer-term relationships with suppliers in an attempt to save money and streamline processes.

Work in this industry

Alberta occupational profiles that describe various types of work in this industry are listed in OCCinfo's Search by Industry: Metals, Metal Fabrication and Machinery Manufacturing

Copyright © 2006 Alberta Employment, Immigration and Industry