What About A Welding Career

Category:

By Jess Saint Vess

Within the next five years, experts predict a large shortage of capable manufacturing workers almost everywhere, and many companies are already reporting difficulty finding welders. The American Welding Society (AWS) predicts that by 2010, the demand for skilled welders in the U.S. alone may outpace supply by 200,000 individuals.

In trying economic times, job security and demand are becoming a priority for those seeking new career opportunities. Many companies are offering scholarships, bonuses, and salaries on par with those of newly graduated engineers. It appears that newly certified welders will almost certainly enjoy guaranteed job placement.

Skilled welders are in extreme demand and they can thus demand a highly competitive salary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, median hourly earnings of welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers were $16.72 in May 2008. The middle 50% earned between $14.90 and $21.05. The range of earnings of welders reflects the wide range of skill levels. In addition, many welders are asked to join a union, which brings benefits and security to the workers.

It takes specialized training to learn and practice the skills needed for the various welding processess. Training for welding, soldering and brazing workers can last from a few weeks of school or on the job training for low-skilled positions to several years of combined school and on the job training. Formal training is available in high schools, vocational schools and post secondary institutions, such as vocational-technical institutes and community colleges.

Some welders become certified, a process that usually begins with enrolling in an institution, such as an independent testing lab, equipment manufacturer, or technical school. A certification is your passport to more demanding and better paying jobs. The more certificates you earn the better. A good collection of certificates, along with documented experience, lead to supervisory positions with more responsibility and higher pay.

Now is definitely the right time to grab the opportunity to become part of the large welding family. For more information on a career in welding, contact your local welding college.

About the Author: