How to Become a Welder
A career in welding has a great turn around; the training is potentially short, and the pay is good. Welders make an average of at least 40K a year and they are currently in very high demand. Depending on which route of certification an individual chooses, a welding certificate can take as little as one semester at a technical college. There are many ways to start a career in welding; keep reading to find which would be best for you.
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Instructions
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Get the basics. In order to become employed as a welder, you usually need to have your high school diploma or GED, but this is currently true of nearly every job. Make sure that you have at least the most basic skills so that you will be able to do well in your welding classes.
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Many people actually have welding experience but can't find work with a new employer because they don't have the formal certificate. Before you enroll in a welding program, decide which kind of welding is most in-demand in your location. There are different certifications of varying lengths; MIG, TIG, and gas metal arc welding are a few examples. Different employers require different welding certificates; find out which one will make you most employable.
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Now that you have researched the job market, figure out how much time and money you have to dedicate to getting a certificate in welding. Some programs are as short as 1-2 quarters, allowing you to get certified and back out into the job market quickly. Another option is to get your ATA, or Associates of Technical Arts, in welding. This takes roughly 2 years but it also gives you a very well rounded education as well as your welding certificate. As you can see, there are many different routes to take to get into a career in welding, pick the one that works best for you.
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If you can, take courses that teach you to read blueprints; employers value this skill. A certification in WABO is also excellent for improving your employability. Also, any communications courses work well in order to provide you with skills to work well with others.
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Before seeking a career in welding, make you sure you have the physical stamina. Welding is quite demanding on the body and requires for you to stay fit and healthy.
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Tips & Warnings
Talk to a career counselor or local college advisor for more information about welding careers.
