Most cities' 30-40 year plans at this point are envisioning lots of steel framed buildings being constructed. So, in 40 years, someone just starting out now is

Most cities' 30-40 year plans at this point are envisioning lots of steel framed buildings being constructed. So, in 40 years, someone just starting out now is quite possibly going to be the chief to a crew of younger people building all those shiny new buildings. That's not to negate education; in welding, knowing how different materials fuse, new techniques, etc, is vital. Even Blue Collar trades have a continuing education requirement if you want to stay relevant.