Glazier: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Glaziers specialize in the precise installation, repair, and maintenance of transparent architectural elements, including glass, plexiglass, and other specialized materials used in windows, skylights, and custom fixtures. This hands-on program equips learners with the technical expertise needed to interpret blueprints, ensure structural integrity, and adhere to industry safety and building standards in diverse construction environments.
- Site Measurement and Analysis: Learn to accurately assess job locations using precision tools, ensuring components fit securely and meet design specifications.
- Job Estimation and Planning: Develop skills in evaluating project scope, calculating material needs, and preparing cost estimates for efficient workflow execution.
- Material Cutting and Shaping: Master techniques for safely and precisely cutting, grinding, and finishing glass and transparent materials to exact dimensions.
- Window and Skylight Installation: Gain expertise in mounting and securing transparent panels, including sealant application, framing integration, and alignment for optimal performance.
- Site Safety Protocols: Understand and implement safety measures specific to handling fragile materials, working at heights, and operating power tools in construction settings.
- Equipment Operation and Maintenance: Become proficient in using saws, lifts, vacuum systems, and other specialized tools while maintaining them for peak reliability.
- Specification and Code Interpretation: Learn to read and apply architectural drawings, manufacturer guidelines, and local, state, and national building codes.
Glazier Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Glazier Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Glazier degrees, including First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers and Glaziers. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 863,080 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers 47-1011 | $78,690 | $51,290 - $126,690 | 806,080 | $37.83 |
| Glaziers 47-2121 | $55,440 | $37,710 - $98,780 | 57,000 | $26.65 |
Glazier Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $50,665 in Arkansas to $99,525 in Massachusetts—a 96% difference. The highest-paying states include Massachusetts, Hawaii, and Rhode Island. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 863,080 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Glazier by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 2 institutions offering Glazier programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Glazier is found at Ivy Tech Community College (Ivy Tech) (13 graduates), and Renton Technical College (RTC) (1 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 14 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ivy Tech Community College (Ivy Tech) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
Associate's
|
13 | Indianapolis, Indiana | Public | ivytech.edu |
| Renton Technical College (RTC) |
Certificate (≥2 yrs)
|
1 | Renton, Washington | Public | rtc.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Glazier programs
How much can I earn with a Glazier degree?
Salaries for Glazier graduates vary by role and location. First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers earn a median of $78,690 annually, while Glaziers earn around $55,440. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in Massachusetts average $99,525 compared to $50,665 in Arkansas. Approximately 863,080 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Glazier programs?
Currently 2 accredited institutions offer Glazier degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Ivy Tech Community College (Ivy Tech) (13 graduates), Renton Technical College (RTC) (1 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Glazier growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have decreased over the past decade, rising from 22 in 2010 to a peak of 38 in 2020, before declining slightly to 14 in 2023-24. This represents a 36% decrease overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with consistent demand, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Glazier degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers, Glaziers, . Related occupations employ approximately 863,080 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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