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opportunities for construction equipment operators are expected
to be good through 2010 due, in part, to the shortage of adequate
training programs. In addition, many potential workers may prefer
work that is less strenuous and has more comfortable working
conditions. Well-trained workers will have especially favorable
opportunities. Employment of construction equipment operators
is expected to increase as population and business growth create
a need for new houses, industrial facilities, schools, hospitals,
offices and other structures. Also stimulating demand is the
expected growth in highway, bridge and street construction.
Bridge construction is expected to grow the fastest, due to
the need to repair or replace structures before they become
unsafe. Poor highway conditions will also spur demand for highway
maintenance and repair. In the last several years, Congress
has passed substantial public works bills designated to provide
money for such construction projects, including mass transit
systems. In addition to employment growth in this occupation,
many job openings will arise because of the need to replace
experienced workers who transfer to other occupations or leave
the labor force.
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