Are you thinking about a career in welding? It's an excellent career choice for many, but is it really the job for you? Before you make the leap and sign up for a trade school where you can learn to weld, it's wise to look at the details of a welder's job and figure out whether it's something you'd really like to do.
What Does Welding Really Entail?
A Welders Job
A welder is someone who works with metal. A welding machine allows the welder to fabricate, sculpt, smooth and attach metal pieces together using intense heat. Along with having a proper understanding of how to safely and efficiently use a welding machine, welders must also have a solid understanding of mathematical dimensions. They need to be able to follow project plans and blueprints, and they must be familiar with the ins and outs of all the equipment they work with. Since welding can be very dangerous, a high degree of training and practice is important.
How Much Schooling Do You Need?
Professional Welders
One of the benefits of choosing to weld as a career is that it requires much less traditional education than a typical college degree. Yes, welding is a complex art, and it does require a lot of training, but much of your training won't be in a classroom. To become a welder, you'll need a high school diploma or equivalency. From there, you'll need to either complete a welding certificate program at a local community college or trade school. Along with hands-on training in the art of welding, you'll also study math, physics, chemistry, metals, mechanical drawing and more. You can earn your welding certificate in as little as nine months.
However when it comes to finding jobs, your abilities and skill level generally matter more than your schooling. If you were taught welding by a family member growing up or have already developed welding skills, you might be able to begin applying for jobs and apprenticeships now and continue your schooling as you work. If you're interested in a welding position, your best bet is to call and ask about the requirements to apply.
What Opportunities Do Professional Welders Have?
The Benefits
One of the greatest benefits of becoming a welder is that your valuable skillset will be desired and cherished in a number of industries. The possibilities are practically endless! You could work in manufacturing, engineering, robotics, agriculture, auto repair, shipbuilding, the oil industry, the military, motorsports and so much more.
With so many different opportunities for welders, it really opens up a wide range of possible lifestyles. If you want to work a regular schedule and have weekends off, you'll be able to find an opportunity for that. If you prefer working long shifts and then having a long period off, there are jobs of that variety too. There are even plenty of welding jobs that allow you to travel the world, working contract positions and living in different cities for periods of time. When it comes to welding, the sky is the limit.
How Much Do Top Welders Make?
The Earning Potential
Since welding opens up so many different opportunities, the earning potential can vary greatly. However, it's safe to say that welders will always be in high demand, which means investing in your skillset as a welder will be valuable. The salary for the average welder is $36,720, but some top welders are earning up to $57,000 a year or even more.
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