It’s no secret that jobs in the welding industry are becoming scarce. The latest estimates show the U.S. economy lost 651,000 jobs in February and the unemployment rate rose to 8.1 percent. Behind those numbers are real people, many of them skilled welders, facing real struggles to feed their families and pay their bills.

Although it will certainly take longer than anyone would like, the billions of dollars approved for distribution in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) will soon funnel down through the federal government into state and local projects that require skilled welders.

The bill calls for $150 billion in government spending on infrastructure projects, including $8.4 billion in spending for public transit projects, such as road and bridge building, rail transportation and more. All but two of the 50 states will be receiving over $10 million for these projects, with many scheduled to receive over $100 million.

What is your take on the recovery act? Will this plan help you personally? Do you think the infrastructure plan will result in more jobs and greater job security in your area? Please share your thoughts by posting a comment below. For more information on the ARRA, visit the Web site www.recovery.gov.