Training to Be a Welder
Welders are workers who create a variety of products by fusing metal material, including steel, aluminum and brass. There are a variety of training options for aspiring welders, from on-the job training to completion of formal training programs. Welders work in many different industries such as manufacturing and shipbuilding.
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Formal Training
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Many community colleges, vocational and technical schools and private welding institutions offer formal training for prospective welders such as degree, diploma or certificate programs. There are also welding schools that are run by the U.S. armed forces. Some welders complete welding apprenticeship programs. Formal welding programs vary, but students typically learn the necessary procedures for heating and shaping a variety of metals. The time frame to finish the training generally ranges from weeks to years.
Coursework
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Formal welding education programs vary depending on institution, but welding students often complete courses in chemistry, physics, reading blueprints, mechanical drawing, shop mathematics and metallurgy. Prospective welders must also have knowledge of electricity because it is often used in the welding field. Some programs require students to also complete a welding practicum to gain practice experience in arc welding, bronzing, brazing and soldering.
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On-the-Job Training
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Some employers hire individuals who do not have previous experience with the intent to provide on-the-job training where new workers follow experienced employees. New welders learn the necessary policies and procedures of the employer. A new welder is required to complete safety training under experienced workers before he can take on independent tasks. Some employers require new welders to receive passing scores on welding tests administered by the company, and some also have internal certification examinations.
Certification
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The American Welding Society offers a national certification for welders. This certification can be obtained on an independent basis or through the completion of American Welding Society-accredited programs. The American Welding Society offers the Certified Welder program, which enables welders to be individuals to become certified by demonstrating their performance in the structural steel, sheet metal, petroleum pipeline and chemical refinery welding fields.
Job Outlook and Salary
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The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that employment of welders is expected to have little to no change from 2008 to 2018. The job outlook for welders is strongest in the manufacturing field. According to Salary.com, as of July 2010 the middle 50 percent of entry-level welders earn average annual salaries between $28,913 and $38,147. The top 10 percent earn average annual salaries of more than $42,365.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit welder image by Antonio Oquias from Fotolia.com
