Welders are highly-skilled technicians who chemically join metals using tools that produce extremely high levels of heat and pressure, like lasers and electrical currents. Welding is difficult, dangerous, and dirty; like other “Hot Work” jobs, such as cutting and brazing, it requires persistent attention to environmental threats to safety, health, and the integrity of property.
There are many types of welding, most of which are labor-intensive and sensitive to the variable skill set welders bring to the job. Welding experts are currently in demand across numerous areas of the economy, such as fabricated metal manufacturing, motor sports, construction, mining, welding inspection, and sales.
Welders who live in a state or jurisdiction that requires licensure must make sure the school they choose is accredited by a recognized regional or national association like the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology (ACCSCT) or the Council on Occupational Education (COE).
Aspiring welders can enter the industry through one of several pathways. Independent welder education is technically voluntary, but the advantage of having pre-existing knowledge and skills can be substantial. A vocational certificate is a popular option for those who want to learn an introductory skill set on a relatively accelerated timeframe.
Where can you earn vocational certificates? Certificates and diplomas are offered by a variety of community colleges, such as Ohio State University and Ferris State University. Career schools like the Texas State Technical College often offer vocational certificates exclusively, with some exceptions.
There are also dedicated welding schools, like the Cal-Trade Welding School, and specialized welding schools, like the Divers Academy International, which teaches underwater welding. Additionally, some employers hire workers to be trained on-site in the welding arts. Many unions also fund vocational education and set up apprenticeships for workers.
Some certificate programs are introductory courses that ground students in the discipline's fundamentals. After graduating from a good training program, these individuals should shop for employers who are looking for their particular entry-level set of skills.
Others prepare students for special welding certification in techniques like pipe welding or plastic welding. These are popular with working welders who want to learn more to qualify for a pay increase or more advanced position. Many welders acquire an introductory vocational certificate and then go ahead and enter the workforce. Later, they pursue training, sometimes with employer or union funding.
High school students can prepare for a college program in welding by taking shop, science, and math courses. Most schools don't require applicants to have prior welding experience, although admission benchmarks vary. Be sure to check with your desired institution's specific requirements. Vocational programs range from just a few months to 1-2 years.
Students may be required to have their own welding machine for practice. Another common requirement for admission to welding training is successful demonstration of visual acuity. Poor visual acuity doesn't necessarily disqualify students, but they will probably be required to wear corrective lenses during all welding exercises.
It also helps to be physically fit and have few back problems—heavy lifting is involved. Some employers now require incoming workers to have a full back x-ray before they begin work.
What kinds of jobs can certificate-holders get?
Coursework for a vocational certificate in Welding Technology may include:
An associate's degree is a good option for students who can commit 2 years to intensive vocational training and want a comprehensive introductory skill set before entering the workforce. An associate's welding program should familiarize students with the most common types of arc welding, like Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), and Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW).
Each of these types is associated with an American Welding Society (AWS) certification. AWS certifications are a common vehicle for moving up in the field. Because some less skilled work previously available to human welders has now been automated, the job outlook will be best for those with advanced credentials.
An Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) program in Welding Technology includes courses like:
Electives for a welding program at the associate level may include classes like:
What kinds of jobs are available to successful graduates of an associate's program in welding?
We found 639 schools offering welding degree programs in the U.S.
>> See all 639 Welder / Welding Technologist Colleges in the U.S.
