Insulator: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
This program equips students with the technical expertise needed to install, maintain, and repair thermal, acoustic, and fire-resistant insulation systems across industrial, commercial, and residential environments. Emphasis is placed on precision application, safety compliance, and adherence to industry standards to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency.
- Insulation Specifications: Understanding material requirements, R-values, and performance criteria for various insulation types based on environmental and operational demands.
- Measuring and Cutting Techniques: Mastering accurate measurement and customized cutting of insulation materials to fit complex pipe, duct, and equipment configurations.
- Installation and Securing Methods: Learning proper techniques for attaching insulation using adhesives, tapes, clamps, and mechanical fasteners to ensure durability and effectiveness.
- Vapor Barrier Application: Implementing moisture-resistant barriers to prevent condensation, mold growth, and degradation of insulation integrity.
- Insulation System Maintenance: Conducting inspections, repairs, and upgrades to extend system lifespan and maintain energy efficiency over time.
- Asbestos Abatement Procedures: Following strict protocols for identifying, handling, and safely removing asbestos-containing materials in older infrastructure.
- Occupational Safety and Compliance: Training in personal protective equipment, hazard communication, fall protection, and adherence to OSHA and EPA regulations.
Insulator Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Insulator Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Insulator degrees, including First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers, Insulation Workers, Mechanical and Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall. 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 870,330 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 |
| Insulation Workers, Mechanical 47-2132 | $57,250 | $39,450 - $94,110 | 25,640 | $27.52 |
| Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall 47-2131 | $48,680 | $35,950 - $77,160 | 38,610 | $23.41 |
Insulator Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $49,713 in Idaho to $96,330 in District of Columbia—a 94% difference. The highest-paying states include District of Columbia, Oregon, and Hawaii. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 870,330 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 Insulator by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 3 institutions offering Insulator 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 Insulator is found at Ivy Tech Community College (Ivy Tech) (24 graduates), Renton Technical College (RTC) (7 graduates), and Miami Lakes Educational Center and Technical College (MLEC & TC) (1 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 32 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
|
24 | Indianapolis, Indiana | Public | ivytech.edu |
| Renton Technical College (RTC) |
Other Award
|
7 | Renton, Washington | Public | rtc.edu |
| Miami Lakes Educational Center and Technical College (MLEC & TC) |
Certificate (≥2 yrs)
|
1 | Miami Lakes, Florida | Public | miamilakes.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Insulator programs
How much can I earn with a Insulator degree?
Salaries for Insulator graduates vary by role and location. First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers earn a median of $78,690 annually, while Insulation Workers, Mechanical earn around $57,250. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in District of Columbia average $96,330 compared to $49,713 in Idaho. Approximately 870,330 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 Insulator programs?
Currently 3 accredited institutions offer Insulator degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Ivy Tech Community College (Ivy Tech) (24 graduates), Renton Technical College (RTC) (7 graduates), and Miami Lakes Educational Center and Technical College (MLEC & TC) (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.
What career paths are available with a Insulator degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers, Insulation Workers, Mechanical, and Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall. Related occupations employ approximately 870,330 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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