Welding
Why Become a Welder?
From the cars we drive to the houses we live in, the welding industry is constantly shaping our world. Skilled welding professionals keep our industries and economy moving forward each and every day and work behind the scenes from constructing bridges to Hollywood movie sets. Welding offers multiple career paths and is consistently in high demand.
Career Pathways
Becoming a Welder
Technical College
Welding certificate programs prepare students for careers in the welding industry and emphasizes welding theory and practical applications necessary for successful employment. Students are prepared to gain entry-level training in the construction industry as a welding and joining technician and to take the qualifications tests. Standard pathway to obtaining a technical degree includes:
Meet Education Requirements
Attend Technical College or Trade School
Complete Apprenticeship
*Please note, requirements may vary by State and location.
Straight to Workforce
Although numerous employers are willing to hire inexperienced entry-level welders and train them on the job, many prefer to hire workers who have been through training or credentialing programs. Even entry-level workers with formal technical training still begin their working career with several months of on-the-job training. An understanding of electricity is helpful, as well as skills and knowledge of computers is gaining importance as welding, soldering, and brazing machine operators become more responsible for programming robots and other computer-controlled machines.
Trade Career Opportunities for Welders
Welders
Cutters
Solderers & Brazers
Business Owner:
Source: Zippia.com
**Above career path chart shows how you might advance from one job title to another within the trade industry; not all trade pathways are the same and depend on each person’s ultimate goals and job opportunities