Expert: Fred Weldin - 11/15/2011

Question
Hi Fred:

I'm not sure if you can help me but its worth a shot here, and really I just need advice/suggestions.

I'm 37 years old and unemployed. Fortunately, I have money saved and want to start over in a new career. I've thought about careers that are going to last for another 30 years or so and coincidentally, I stumbled upon Asbestos Abatement and Insulation. A union for Asbestos and Insulation ironically is located about a mile from my house, and they are accepting applications on Dec 5 for a four year apprentice program that is a paid apprenticeship.

What I'm looking for from you is your impression of the Asbestos abatement/insulation field and what do you consider the career outlook is within that field of employment. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a great outlook however I really want someone involved in this industry to give me their honest view point.

I appreciate your response and thank you!

Dave

Answer
Dave:

I'm not involved with asbestos abatement, but I spoke with a friend who's an Industrial Hygienist (she's mostly doing mold studies now, but was involved with asbestos abatement back in the day). She tells me there's not too much asbestos left in commercial/institutional buildings now. She did say you might still see it in military or industrial sites, ships, etc.

Applying, maintaining and repairing insulation on piping, vessels, ductwork, etc. should be a good field to get into.

I assume you're in an area where union workers are necessary. Best of luck, Dave!

Fred