Did you know that welding is a highly-rewarding career? If you are not sure whether this is the perfect career, you can always contact an expert. Jobsora.com offers professional help to those who are confused as to what job will suit them best.
If you feel welding is the right career for you, then here are some tips that can help you get started:
Before you get into your chosen career, it is best that you set your career goals first. Then create an outline as to how you can achieve these goals within a given time frame. Planning, research, determination, and a clear vision are essential factors that will help you achieve your future career in welding.
General information about welding
Welding is a career that is more of an art than a craft. It is an evolving profession that appeals to both male and female professionals. It is a very challenging career that is continually changing. New knowledge and scientific principles are being applied now and then.
It is not just repairing your car. It is also involved in the construction and manufacturing of vehicles. Welders have skills on fusing metal depending on the specifications required. If you think welders are limited only to these kinds of works, you are wrong. There are lots of opportunities available in welding and several auxiliary fields.
Aside from being physically and mentally fit, it is a must that they should have tremendous hand-eye coordination. Also, welders should remain focused on their work even during an extended period. A welder should be able to motivate themselves since it is part of their job to look for work. This career is in high demand, but sometimes you need to find the jobs that require a knowledgeable and experienced welder.
How to become a welder?
Welders may have a career not just in the automobile industry but also in construction, shipbuilding, or in any manufacturing industry. You don’t merely become a welder because you know how to weld. There are steps you need to go through to become a professional welder.
The average salary for a welder is around $40,970 per annum and for welders with higher certifications and many years of experience may earn up to $47,919 per year. Their hourly rate is approximately $19.70 per hour.
Step by step guide to become a certified welder
Earn a high school diploma
A high school diploma is your first step to becoming a welder. Some high schools offer courses in metal fabrication and welding. You can learn the basics in welding here and gain some experience. These courses will serve as your basic foundation for future study.
Obtain a degree or certificate in welding
You can participate in the Welding Certificate Program, which you can complete within 6 to 18 months. For those who want a higher degree of welding, they can complete the coursework for a Welding Technology Associate’s Degree. It will take you two years to complete the course. Bachelor Degree in Welding Engineering program is a four-year course in welding.
Participate in a welding apprenticeship
To gain more knowledge about welding, you can participate in a welding apprenticeship. Here you will get experience with the best practices on welding. You can start earning some money during your apprenticeship. The knowledge and experience you can get from being an apprentice is a good foundation which you can improve over time.
Earn a welding certification
This certification will validate your skill level and knowledge to a potential employer. You can earn your welding certification through the American Welding Society (AWS). Some of the certifications you can get includes:
- Certified Welder
- Certified Welding Sales Representative (CWSR)
- Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
- Certified Welding Educator (CWE)
- Senior Certified Welding Inspector (SCWI)
Continue growing your skills and experience
Continue pursuing more skills in welding. Familiarize yourself on other welding disciplines. Once you have proven that you have complete expertise as a welder, there are lots of opportunities that will open up for you. Keep improving, and you will discover how rewarding it is to work as a professional welder. This job can even land you to army, navy, motorsports, and even space.