How to Find a Welding School?

Answer 1

Welding is a process in which metal parts are joined together. Welding is a skill that requires patience, a steady hand, and attention to detail. Welds may be made by use of a gas flame, an electric flame, or more recently by use of a laser.

For years, welding was taught on the job. Experienced welders educated the novice welders, passing the craft down from one generation to the next. The increased demand for quality welders has necessitated the inception of quality welding schools. There are a number of welding schools across the country with the mission to properly prepare students to enter the workforce with the knowledge and ability to be successful welders.

A good welding school should offer hands-on curriculum, coupled with intensive classroom instruction taught by experienced and qualified teachers. These teachers are usually experienced welders and not college professors. Many of these welding schools offer job placement assistance. They may work closely with the construction industry. Training is relatively short, and can usually be completed in six to twelve months. There are schools who offer shorter training, but most experts agree that several months of training is usually necessary. While there are schools who deal exclusively in welding applications, many trade or technical schools offer welding training. Training may also be received in the armed forces.

During the training, welding students may complete coursework in Metallurgy, blueprint reading, and math related courses. Safety instruction should be a core part of the curriculum.

With proper training, welders can expect to secure employment in a variety of jobs. Welding is an integral part of shipbuilding, automotive manufacturing, power plants, bridge building, the aerospace industry, construction, and many other applications. Due to the nature of the work, the majority of welding is performed outdoors, often in working conditions that may be considered less than ideal.

Because of the working conditions and the importance of the job, qualified welders are in high demand. This demand is expected to continue for several years to come. It is not uncommon for welders to make in excess of $40,000 annually.