Today, there is a growing need for new welders. In fact,
this year there will be a shortage of 250,000 welding professionals, according
to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is good news for those considering
a career in welding.
Welding is the process by which metal or non-metal materials
are joined together in a high-strength bond. Though some manufacturers have
begun to mechanize the welding process, skilled welders are still needed to
provide the majority of welds.
Welding is one of the few crafts used in the manufacturing
process that still requires skilled individuals. There are several benefits to
beginning a welding career.
Job Market
Welding is difficult and it takes practice to be a good
welder. Today, this necessitates schooling and certification, but it ensures
your employer that you are proficient and makes you more marketable. Given the
shortage of welders, it is likely that you will always be able to find a job in
the field.
Diversity
Welding is a good career for those that get bored easily. There
are many different types of welding processes that include arc, MIG, TIG and oxyfuel.
Each of these welding processes requires different manual skills and expertise.
Other processes such as electron beam and friction stir welding require the use
of sophisticated technology and software to operate.
Welding is also used in a variety of industries from
building jet engines, to building bridges to welding intricate decorative
items. This kind of diversity offers a wide variety of challenges, as there is
always the opportunity to learn more.
Promotion
The welding industry also offers room for promotion.
Experienced welders can be promoted to foremen or supervisors. Foremen and
supervisors can train as welding inspectors. Very experienced welder can also
teach welding in welding colleges and schools.
Freedom
Today, many welders work freelance. This means they do not
work for any specific company and travel the country and world based on the
needs of several employers. This is a good option for those that enjoy
traveling and don’t want to be tied to one job for too long.
The welding industry has its weaknesses as well as its
strengths. Some types of welding can be dangerous and uncomfortable. The work is
dirty, hands-on and can cause added bodily stress. A career in welding is not
for everyone but as veteran welder Marty
Rice wrote, “I’m proud to be a welder… as a welder I've learned honor and
worked with the neatest, funniest, and craziest people around.”