Northwest Welder Training

Training for welders in the Northwestern United States is no different than it is anywhere else -- as all welders must be capable of using tools that generate extreme heat to mold together metal and steel, as well as other materials.

Education

Welders almost always must possess a high school diploma or pass an equivalency test before landing their first job. Some also attend vocational, trade or community colleges that offer courses in welding. In the Northwest, those schools include Bates Technical College in Washington and Mount Hood Community College in Oregon.

Certification

Additional training is available for welders via certification programs. These programs vary, but typically take no more than several weeks to complete and are available through professional organizations and colleges. Lane Community College in Oregon and Green River Community College in Washington are two such schools.

On the Job

Like welders everywhere, those who work in the Northwest often receive their best training after landing their first full-time job. Once they do, they are able to learn the essentials of their craft under the guidance of a supervisor, training manager or veteran welder.

References

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Workers
• Education Portal: Welding Schools and Colleges in the U.S.
• Technical Schools Guide: Washington Welding & Machine Trades Technical Schools
• Technical Schools Guide: Oregon Welding & Machine Trades Technical Schools