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Welding Training Courses Online

Welding is the process by which you fuse or break metal objects. Welders are skilled workers that work mainly on construction sites, and in manufacturing. They are trained to build large structures or small metal components within large structures. They are also trained to work underwater, on tall buildings and underground.
Whether or not you need to get certified depends on the state you live in and the specialization you choose. While some states require welders to get certified, others only require them to get a high school diploma and learn on the job. In case that you want further education after your high school diploma, you could take courses in shop mathematics, metallurgy, physics, blueprint reading, and mechanical drawing.

The American Welding Society and the Institute for Printing Circuits offers certification and training for welders and solderers. To get a certificate in welding, it could take you anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. Your certification will prepare you for higher-level positions in the industry. Instead of working as an entry-level welder, you could work as a certified welding instructor or an arc welder.

How to Acquire Welding Training in the US

To become a welder, it is important to get an associate’s degree, on-the-job training, or a vocational certificate. All welding certifications come with excessive training, preparing participants for the tough job. It can take approximately six to eighteen months to complete welding certification. Welding Technology Training Program provides the hands-on training, preparing for a diverse career in different industries from constriction and automotive fabrication to aerospace. Start your journey to become a professional welder in the US by obtaining the necessary education and training.

Steps Involved in Welding Training Program

If you plan on enrolling in a welding training program, then make sure you are familiar with all the steps involved. Most of these programs prepare trainees to work in the industry in less than one year.

  1. Hands-on Practical Experience
  • Welding is one of those professions that relies mostly on practical experience rather than theoretical learning. Welding masters are those who obtain certifications whilst holding a welding torch for hours.
  • Learn through application of different welding techniques, operations, and welding equipment setup.
  • Develop individual skills level that will make you stand out in the professional field.
  1. Choose a Specialty
  • Professional welders are always in demand, placing them among the highest-paid tradesmen. To prepare yourself for a rewarding career, learn about the types of welding specialties related to different industries.
  • Choose a specialty keeping in mind your interests and skillset.
  1. Become a Certified Welder
  • Once you have decided on a specialization then the next step is to enroll in a certification program, accredited by the American Welding Society.
  • Most training and certification programs introduce potential welders to the principles of welding, followed by techniques that include Gas Metal Arc Welding, Shielded Metal Arc Welding, Engineering and Fabrication, Gas Metal Arc Welding, Flux-Cored Arc Welding, Gas Tungsten Arc Welding, and Pipe Welding.
  • Welders have options to get multiple certifications to advance their career and move up the hierarchy.
  1. Staying Up-to-Date with Technology
  • Welding is an ever-evolving field. There are fast advancements in the field, and it is important for welders to know new technologies and trends.
  • Introduction of Robotic Welding now requires mandatory training in the area along with manual welding. Many such advancements are introduced over the time and welders are required to be up-to-date.
  1. Continued Learning & Certifications
  • It is recommended that new welders join trade associations like the American Welding Society and the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association.
  • This allows networking opportunities, chance to meet potential employers, and learn continuously from superiors.
  • Upskilling and retraining is an important part of welders’ career growth, especially if you want to pursue better job opportunities.
  • Avoid being outdated by obtaining latest certifications and mastering new requirements.

Welder Training Near Me

Some schools and training centers are known to be better than others. The Hobart Institute of Welding Technology and the Lincoln Electrical Welding School are known to be some of the best vocational training schools in Ohio. If you are located elsewhere, to find welding training centers near you, a simple internet search should suffice.

Welding Certificate Program

You can be certified as a welder from the American Welding Society (AWS). A certificate denotes extensive practical work and training. You will likely be taught how to use the different equipments you will use as a welder in the future. You will also learn about safety rules and regulations. Listed below are some of the techniques you can learn during your certificate program;

  • Metal Arc Welding
  • Fabrication Welding
  • Pipe Welding
  • Flux cored Welding
  • Blue print reading

Certified Welding Instructor Classes

A certified welding instructor is one that has experience in the field as well as the ability to introduce and teach others about the welding industry. To become a certified welding instructor, you may need to get an associate’s degree or get certified through the AWS. You could also get a bachelor’s degree in welding and fabrication engineering to increase your chances of getting employed. In addition to your education, employers will be looking for work experience, so a minimal amount of experience in the field may be required. You may also be required to learn how to use professional welding machines. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, post secondary vocational teachers made a median wage of $25.54 per hour and $53,120 per year as of May 2018.

How to Become a Welder Apprentice

Getting an apprenticeship in the welding industry can be difficult. It is important that you are well prepared and have some knowledge of the field before you start. After this, you need to start looking out for welding apprenticeship vacancies around you. The way to do this is simply to go around and ask experienced welders if they are willing to take you on as an apprentice. While some welders may not have the experience or time to teach you, others will be more than willing, depending on your interest in the field.

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