Considering A Welding Career
Within the next five years, experts predict a large shortage of capable manufacturing workers almost everywhere, and many companies are already reporting difficulty finding welders. The American Welding Society (AWS) predicts that by 2010, the demand for skilled welders in the U.S. alone may outpace supply by 200,000 individuals.
In this tough economic time, job security and demand are becoming a priority for those seeking career opportunities. In fact, many schools are now offering scholarships, bonuses, tuition reimbursement offers, and salaries on par with those of newly graduated engineers. It also appears that newly certified welders will enjoy guaranteed job placement.
Skilled welders are highly specialized and in extreme demand, therefore, they demand a highly competitive salary. According the Bureau of Labor Statistics, median hourly earnings of welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers were $16.72 in May 2008. The middle 50 percent earned between $14.90 and $21.05. The lowest 10 percent had earnings of less than $9.79, while the top 10 percent earned over $22.20. The range of earnings of welders reflects the wide range of skill levels. In addition, many welders are asked to join a union, which brings benefits and security to the workforce.
It takes specialized training to learn and practice the skills needed for the various welding processess. Training for welding, soldering and brazing workers can last from a few weeks of school or on the job training for low-skilled positions to several years of combined school and on the job training. Formal training is available in high schools, vocational schools and post secondary institutions, such as vocational-technical institutes and community colleges.
Some welders become certified, a process that usually begins with enrolling in an institution, such as an independent testing lab, equipment manufacturer, or technical school. A certification is your passport to more demanding and better paying jobs. The more certificates you earn the better. A good collection of certificates, along with documented experience, lead to supervisory positions with more responsibility and higher pay.
Anyone concerned with selecting a career for life should know that now is indeed the right time to grab the great opportunity to become part of the large welding family. For more information on welding training, contact your local community college.
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