Welding keeps our world together

If it’s made of metal – it can be welded. From cars to planes and bridges to buildings, welding keeps our economy moving. It’s the backbone of our world.

While we don’t always notice every weld under the hood or behind the walls, welding plays an integral role in keeping people safe and advancing our quality of life. Every industry depends on it.

There’s a bright future in welding

If you like to work with your hands and are seeking a unique sense of community, then welding may be for you. It’s both an art and a science. From basic fabrication to advanced robotics, modern welders blend trade skills with technology to work smarter, not just harder. 

The skills you’ll learn as a welder are also portable and recession-resistant. There are countless opportunities in a variety of industries that lead to lucrative and rewarding careers.  

Welding takes you where you want to go

Because welding is an essential component in so many industries and art forms, the demand for welders is at an all-time high. This means that the choice to specialize is yours.  

 The skills you develop as a welder can lead you down several paths. Are you ready to take your first step? 

Why you should become a welder

Start your career in an industry that’s on the move

Training & Certification

Welding lets you get trained and start earning quickly. You can break into the industry through education, apprenticeships or on-the-job training virtually everywhere. There are also plenty of scholarship opportunities that can help.

Get ahead without the debt

A college degree isn’t required for a career in welding. In fact, some facets of the welding industry prefer you start your career as an apprentice or through on-the-job training programs.

High earning potential

Demand for qualified welders is at an all-time high. This means that many careers in welding come with excellent compensation and benefits packages. In addition, opportunities for advancement abound.

Get paid to see the world

Many careers in welding enable you to travel for work giving you exposure to new people and cities. If travel isn’t your thing, there are plenty of opportunities close to home as well. The choice is yours.

Unlimited opportunities

The skills you learn as a welder offer seemingly unlimited possibilities for further specialization. From engineering to pipe fitting and everywhere in between, there are careers available built for your lifestyle.

Welding is in demand

For every four Baby Boomers leaving the skilled trades only one Millennial enters. This means that the demand for hard-working, qualified welders is growing daily.

What opportunities exist as a welder

Experts predict a worldwide shortage of capable welders in the next few years.

This means that a number of careers will be open in these key areas:

Infrastructure

Infrastructure

Construction, buildings, structures, bridges, etc.
Transportation

Transportation

Aerospace, automotive, rail and maritime
Manufacturing

Manufacturing

Fabrication, production, robotics, etc.
Professional

Professional

Engineering, inspection and education
Agriculture & Natural Resources

Agriculture & Natural Resources

Farming, mining, oil & gas and pipelines
Industrial

Industrial

Power generation, industrial shutdowns and mechanical maintenance

Take the first step

There are many paths to a career in welding

  • Start early

  • Work-and-learn

  • Continue your education

Start early

To succeed in welding, make sure you keep up in math and science during high school. If shop courses are available, take as many as you can. A part-time job that involves welding is a great way to practice your skills.

 

Work-and-learn

Apprenticeship programs are sponsored by your employer or your local labor union or association. Programs last between one and six years with wages increasing as you gain work experience. Internships – which are often unpaid – are another option for gaining on-the-job experience.

 

Continue your education

Advance your career by developing new skills through short-term programs and associate or bachelor’s degrees. Already welding? Get a specialized certification. These open opportunities to earn more and move into leadership positions. AWS offers nine different certification categories to help you get ahead.

 

Get comfortable being uncomfortable

No matter which path you take, the best welders learn how to embrace the challenges in front of them. Stay committed to your process and use the resources from AWS and other organizations when you need a boost.

Is welding right for you?

Welders are known for having an eye for detail and a passion for building or creating things. They enjoy the freedom of working outside of an office. And, the loyal and welcoming community that sets welders apart from any other skilled trade. A good welder demonstrates:

Manual dexterity

Superior hand-eye coordination and physical strength are necessary skills

 

Good vision

The ability to see the weld pool is mandatory. The ability to see the potential in a project is what sets you apart.

Critical thinking

The ability to problem-solve and think on your feet.

 

The right attitude

Welders are always striving to make the “perfect weld.” It’s a lifelong journey but it starts with a positive mind frame and the willingness to learn.