Becoming a professional welder can be a great career choice if you are interested in working with your hands, have good hand-eye coordination, and enjoy problem-solving. Here are some reasons why:
- Job Security: Metal welding is always in demand, as it’s a critical part of many industries, including manufacturing, construction, and oil and gas. With an aging workforce and a shortage of skilled workers, the demand for welding professionals is expected to remain high and even increase in the coming years.
- Good Pay: Welding metal professionally can earn a good salary, especially as you gain experience and specialize in certain types of welding. In a study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for cutters, solderers, brazers, and welding professionals was $44,190 in May 2020.
- Versatility: Welding is a versatile skill that you can apply to a vast range of projects and industries, from building bridges to creating sculptures. You can work in various settings, including manufacturing plants, construction sites, and repair shops.
- Creativity: Welding requires both technical skill and creativity, as these professionals often have to design and fabricate metal structures. This can be a satisfying and fulfilling aspect of the job, especially for those who enjoy working with their hands.
- Career Advancement: You can advance your career as a welder by gaining specialized skills, such as underwater welding or robotic welding. You can also become a welding inspector or supervisor or even start your own welding business.
.