Skilled Trades Job Market in North Dakota?

I'm a high schooler figuring out my career path and thinking about skilled trades. How's the job market in North Dakota for trades like welding or plumbing? Are there any industries or towns that are hiring more than others?

North Dakota has a relatively high demand for skilled tradespeople, especially in areas like welding and plumbing. The energy boom in North Dakota, primarily focused on oil, natural gas, and renewable resources, has led to an increase in demand for welders and similar roles. Cities in the western part of the state like Williston, Dickinson, and Watford City, which are closely linked to the energy industry, often have many opportunities.

As for the plumbing industry, it remains a staple trade in every city, town, and rural area. Rapid development in cities like Fargo, Bismark, and Grand Forks has led to a healthy demand for professional plumbers.

The Agriculture industry is another major employer in the state. Although it might not directly employ welders or plumbers as much, indirectly it fuels the need for these tradespeople within the industry's infrastructure needs.

Keep in mind though, while job opportunities are certainly a key factor in choosing a career path, it's also important to look into the kind of training and education these fields require, and to consider if that aligns with your interests and capabilities. Both welding and plumbing typically require vocational training or apprenticeships, meeting standards set by state and industry certification bodies.

Lastly, remember that job markets can change over time based on economic conditions, technological advances, and other factors, so flexibility and continuous learning are crucial in a trade career. Good luck with your career exploration!