Welding is a skilled trade that involves joining metal pieces together using heat and pressure. This field has a wide range of applications, from building and construction to manufacturing and fabrication. Welding is used to create structures and products that are strong, durable, and reliable. As a result, welders are in high demand in many industries and have numerous advantages as a career path.

One advantage of welding is the potential for high pay and job security. Welders can earn competitive wages and have opportunities for advancement in their field. Additionally, welding is a necessary skill in many industries, meaning that there will always be a need for qualified welders.

Welders also have the satisfaction of seeing their work come to life. From the smallest of repairs to the creation of massive structures, welders play an essential role in building and maintaining our infrastructure.

Duties and Responsibilities of Welders

The duties of a welder can vary depending on their specialization and the industry they work in. However, some common duties include:

  • Reading and interpreting blueprints or technical drawings to plan welding projects
  • Selecting the appropriate welding equipment and materials for the job
  • Setting up and operating welding equipment safely and efficiently
  • Ensuring the quality and accuracy of welds by inspecting finished products
  • Maintaining welding equipment and performing routine maintenance and repairs
  • Following safety procedures to protect themselves and others while working

Becoming a Welder in Arkansas Step by Step Guide

If you’re interested in becoming a welder in Arkansas, there are a few steps you’ll need to follow to get started.

Step 1: Obtain a High School Diploma or GED

To become a welder in Arkansas, you’ll need to have a high school diploma or GED. This is the minimum educational requirement for most welding jobs.

Step 2: Enroll in a Welding Program

Once you have your high school diploma or GED, you can enroll in a welding program at a trade school or community college. These programs typically take anywhere from six months to two years to complete, depending on the level of certification you want to earn.

Step 3: Gain Welding Experience

After completing your welding program, you’ll need to gain some welding experience. This can be done through an apprenticeship program or on-the-job training.

Step 4: Obtain Welding Certification

To become a certified welder in Arkansas, you’ll need to pass a welding certification test. There are several types of welding certifications available, which we’ll explore in more detail below.

Step 5: Apply for Welding Jobs

Once you have your welding certification, you can start applying for welding jobs in Arkansas. Welders are in high demand in many industries, including construction, manufacturing, and transportation.

Types of Welding Certifications

There are several types of welding certifications available, each with its own purpose, time it takes to earn, and skills that are learned. Here’s an overview of some of the most common welding certifications:

Certification Type

 

PurposeDurationSkills Learned
Certified Welder (CW)Basic welding skills for entry-level jobs6 months to 1 yearWelding safety, blueprint reading, welding techniques
Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)Inspect welding work for quality control3 to 5 yearsWelding codes and standards, inspection techniques, communication skills
Certified Welding Educator (CWE)Teach welding skills and techniques3 to 5 yearsInstructional techniques, welding theory, safety and health
Certified Welding Sales Representative (CWSR)Sell welding equipment and supplies6 months to 1 yearWelding equipment and supplies, customer service, sales techniques

Becoming a welder in Arkansas involves obtaining a high school diploma or GED, enrolling in a welding program, gaining welding experience, obtaining welding certification, and applying for welding jobs. The certification process can vary depending on the type of certification you want to earn, with different time frames and skills learned. By following this step-by-step guide, you can take the first steps toward a rewarding career as a welder.

Job Outlook of Welder in Arkansas

According to data from O*Net Online, the job outlook for welders in Arkansas is positive. The state is projected to have a 10% increase in employment for welders between 2020 and 2030. This equates to approximately 660 job openings per year, including new jobs and replacement jobs.

Welders can find employment in a variety of sectors and areas in Arkansas. Some of the top industries that employ welders in the state include construction, manufacturing, and transportation. Other areas where welders may find job opportunities include shipbuilding, oil and gas, and agriculture.

Different job titles for welders in Arkansas may include:

  • Welding Technician
  • Welder-Fabricator
  • Welder/Fitter
  • Welder Helper
  • Welding Instructor

Salary of Welder in Arkansas

According to data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for welders in Arkansas is $40,510 as of May 2021. However, the salary range can vary depending on factors such as experience, industry, and location. Welders in Arkansas who have additional certifications or specialize in certain welding techniques may be able to earn higher salaries.

To earn more as a welder in Arkansas, it may be helpful to gain experience in specialized areas such as underwater welding or pipeline welding. Additionally, pursuing higher-level welding certifications or becoming a certified welding inspector can also increase earning potential.