Guest Post: 5 Benefits of Having a Career in Welding

5 Benefits of Having a Career in Welding

More than likely the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the world welding are visions of a welder at work. Images of someone wearing a welding mask, a dark work studio and the flame from a welding torch are what most individuals picture. However, aside from these mental images, there is little else that is said about this career. And it is even rarer that the benefits of pursuing a career in welding are ever mentioned. 

It is a shame that these benefits are rarely touched on as there are many benefits to be considered! Some of these benefits range from being an easily accessible trade skill to learn, to an excellent pay rate. With so many advantages, it is no wonder that many are considering a career in this profession. 

Are you interested in learning more about what benefits a career in metal welding could offer you? To help shed some more light on this lucrative career, there are 5 of the main benefits of pursuing a career in welding outlined below. Ready to get started? Read on!

1. No College Degree Required

Before you can pursue a career in welding you need to become a qualified welder. Thankfully this can be done without having to spend four years getting an expensive college degree. The easiest and simplest way to become a qualified welder is to complete a welding certificate program.

There is a large variety of welding certificate programs offered in the United States. Each certificate program ranges in course length, with most courses lasting anywhere from 6-18 months. The cost of each certificate program also varies from course to course. Regardless of the length or cost of a certificate program, each program offers a hands-on experience which is crucial for those entering into the trades field. 

Of course, for those who are looking for a slightly longer welding course, there are several Welding Technology Associate’s Degree programs available for you to enroll in. These are offered by a variety of trade schools across the United States. This is an excellent option for those who are looking for a slightly longer training program than the basic certification but who still do not want to spend 4 years in a university. With two different education options, both of which not requiring attending a 4-year college, a career in welding is an excellent option for those who are looking for an alternate education outside of attending a typical university. 

2. Excellent Pay!

One of the most obvious factors to consider when looking at a career path is the pay rate. Luckily for those considering a career in the welding field, the starting wages for a beginning welder have been recorded by the Bureau of Labor Statistics to be at an average of about $19.04 per hour with the median welder salary clocking in at $41,380 per year.  

Just at a quick glance, you can tell that these pay rates are far above any state’s minimum wage. This type of compensation is one of the biggest draws to working in the welding field, as the numbers listed above are for welders who have less experience or are just getting started and yet still have a pay rate that is high above most other entry-level job’s compensation. The main reason for this pay rate is largely due to the certification courses and specific skills needed to take to become a qualified welder. 

3. Job Flexibility 

Another benefit of having a career in welding is job flexibility. Many fields require the skill sets of a welder. Some of these industries include oil, gas, and mining as well as construction and maintenance. Some welders even jump into the art scene as their welding skills help them create an art piece other art mediums cannot. If having a career that is highly transferable into other fields is of interest, welding could be a great option for you!

4. Constant Demand

Related to the paragraph earlier that mentions the job and industry flexibility that a welding career provides, there is always a need for welders. Because there are so many industries that need the skills of a welder, there is never a shortage of jobs. However, there is a shortage of individuals pursuing a career in welding!  

According to the American Welding Society, in 2024 there will be a shortage of 400,00 welders. This is partially due to the large majority of welders currently in the field being close to retirement as well as a decline of the younger generation entering into a trade based career. This decline in welders, while unfortunate, does provide some encouragement to those entering into the welding field as it practically guarantees job placement!

5. Room to Grow

Another huge benefit of pursuing a career in welding is that there is room to grow! No need to worry about being stuck in a dead-end office job, as you hone your welding skills and continue to work in the industry, you will be sure to move on to a higher welding position in no time. Some higher-level welding positions include becoming a supervisor or a technician at the welding studio. There are even inspector positions available in the welding industry. 

And of course, if you have worked through all these positions or are just looking for something a little different, there always is the option to open up your own welding business. This is the best option for someone who has a good amount of experience in the welding industry as they will be familiar with the ins and outs of the welding community and will know what will work best for their new business. 

There you have it! 5 excellent benefits to keep in mind when considering a career in welding. With a career path that is so accessible, constantly in demand and with such a high level of compensation, it is no wonder why so many people are considering a career in welding. If you are ready to get started, find the nearest welding certification program near you!