Our Welding pathway provides a solid foundation for various entry-level positions in the welding and metalworking industry, and further education and certifications can lead to more advanced career opportunities with greater responsibilities and higher earning potential.
For students graduating from a welding pathway without pursuing further education, there are several entry-level job opportunities available in the welding and metalworking industry. These may include:
- Welder: Welders use various welding processes to join metal parts and components together according to blueprints, diagrams, or specifications. They may work in manufacturing, construction, shipbuilding, or repair and maintenance industries, producing quality welds using shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), and tungsten inert gas (TIG) processes.
- Welding Technician: Welding technicians assist welders and fabricators in setting up and operating welding equipment, preparing materials, and performing quality inspections on welded joints. They may also assist in maintaining welding machinery and equipment to ensure proper functioning and safety compliance.
- Metal Fabricator: Metal fabricators fabricate and assemble metal structures, components, and products using various metalworking techniques, including cutting, bending, shaping, and welding. They may work in metal fabrication shops, manufacturing plants, or construction sites to produce custom metalwork according to design specifications.
- Welding Inspector: Welding inspectors inspect welded joints and structures to ensure compliance with industry standards, codes, and specifications. They may perform visual inspections, non-destructive testing (NDT), and dimensional measurements to verify weld quality and integrity. Certification as a welding inspector from organizations like the American Welding Society (AWS) may be required for this role.
- Metalworking Apprentice: Metalworking apprentices learn various metalworking skills and techniques, including welding, machining, and fabrication, through on-the-job training and classroom instruction. They may work under the supervision of experienced craftspeople to develop their skills and knowledge in the metalworking trade.
For students interested in advancing their careers and taking on higher-level roles, pursuing further education, such as specialized welding certifications or an associate’s degree in welding technology, can open up additional opportunities. Jobs that may require further education include:
- Certified Welding Inspector (CWI): Certified welding inspectors are responsible for inspecting welds, certifying welders, and ensuring compliance with welding codes and standards. They may work for construction companies, engineering firms, or government agencies, conducting inspections and overseeing welding projects. Certification as a CWI from the American Welding Society (AWS) is typically required for this role.
- Welding Engineer: Welding engineers design, develop, and implement welding processes, procedures, and quality control measures to optimize welding operations and ensure product quality and reliability. They may work in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, or energy industries, conducting research, performing testing, and providing technical support to production teams. A bachelor's degree in welding engineering or a related field is typically required for this position.
