Welding Career Information – Everything You Need to Know

A. Opportunities in Welding

There are hundreds of professions and career paths to take, but why become a welder?

Welders are blue-collar craftsmen whose expertise lies in fabricating metal sheets by joining them together to create a structure. They are highly in-demand especially in places that are vigorously expanding their manufacturing and constructing industries. If you want to be a traveling welder, some countries that you should be looking into are China, the Middle East, and other parts in Asia.

By 2020, the welding profession will have expanded by at least 15%, slightly higher than the national average. And if you start your career now, you will join the ranks of top-earning welders who make at least $100,000. This amount depends on the type of welding you choose to specialize in. If you choose to be an underwater welder, this is not a far goal to achieve.

B. Dangers in the Job

Most welders work for an employer. They can be found in mostly the following industries: manufacturing, construction, wholesale trade, and repair and maintenance. And while most of them follow a regular 9-5 shift, some can be assigned to work at night. If there’s a need to work overtime, they have no choice but to stay and finish the job.

Welding is a dangerous profession. If you work at construction sites, not only will you be exposed to extreme temperatures, but the rigorous physical demands of the job can take a toll on your body. You will be lifting heavy objects, and there is a high chance for accidents to happen.

C. Important Qualities to Have

Aside from being physically fit and able to carry heavy objects, welders should have an excellent attention to details. Most of the metals that you will be welding serve as a foundation of a building. If you weld the wrong spot, who knows what can happen?

Also, welders must possess the dexterity to hold objects in one place. They should also be patient enough to endure the long periods of repetitive tasks.

Last, welders should be technically inclined. They should know how to operate both manual and automated welding equipment and devices.

D. Education Requirements and How to Become a Welder

Welders start their career with a high school diploma, or at least they should have taken and passed a GED exam. Then, they enroll in a school that offers a welding training program.

These schools can be a trade school, a 2-year college, or a private-owned learning institution. The welding programs they offer can either be a certificate that can be obtained in 1 year or several months, or an associate’s degree that can be acquired in two years.

While some graduates look for an employment opportunity, others prefer to take advanced classes.

Also, depending on the type of welding one chooses to specialize in, other requirements may be implemented. For instance, for students who want to enroll in an underwater welding program, the school normally requires a TWIC card and a diving certificate.