As the country continues to make investments to rebuild aging infrastructure and as our cities and towns continue to grow, the growth outlook for the welding profession continues to be bright as an arc light. However, as experienced welders continue to retire, the industry will be in dire need of skilled talent for years to come. Recognizing thisemployment trend, Fortis is helping to provide education to the next generation of welders with our Welding Technology program, which helps students obtain the skill set and education they will need to thrive in this rewarding career field.
Interested in becoming a welder? Here is a helpful guide that provides an overview of how to do so, along with the different ways you can advance in the field.
Starting out
Welding is a skills-based profession that requires a solid foundation of knowledge and abilities gained through advanced training, often obtained through an apprenticeship.
At Fortis, welding students will get a strong start in their career as they learn vital aspects of the welding profession such as industrial welding techniques and craft skills -- through a combination of classroom and hands-on learning. This approach provides a comprehensive foundation of knowledge that prepares students to sit for the certification exams required by the American Welding Society (AWS) D1.1 Standards for structural steel.
Career Advancement
In addition to those required by D1.1 Standards, there are various other AWS certifications welders can obtain to progress in the field. These include:
- Certified Welding Inspector
- Certified Robotic Arc Welding
- Certified Welding Engineer
- Certified Welding Educator
Most welders work in manufacturing, construction and wholesale trade. However, the industry is very broad and welders can thus find themselves working in a variety of sectors and specializations, from fine art and jewelry to robotics and underwater welding.
Growth and Outlook
Like many skilled trades, welding provides an opportunity for people of all walks of life to earn a solid living with wage-growth potential. Welding a good career field where a reliable worker with good skill set can provide a good living for himself and his family.
Furthermore, given the fact that our country’s infrastructure is aging and in need of continuous maintenance and development, demand for welders is expected to grow by 6% over the next 18 years according to Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Has this guide “sparked” your interest in a welding career? If so, Fortis offers its welding program at campuses in Cincinnati, OH; Cuyahoga Falls, OH; and Smyrna, GA. Prospective Students are also encouraged to check out the Welding page on our website or call (855) 691-0265 for more information.