For All-State Career School student Erik W., welding is more than just a job. “Welders build bridges, they build signs, they build houses,” he says. “That's something that I want to be a part of.”
An attitude like Erik’s is the kind that helps set you up for success since one of the most rewarding things in life is finding a job you love. According to the World Happiness Report, people who report high job satisfaction also report being happier overall. If you’re looking for a career that can contribute to your own happiness, you may want to consider welding.
Welding is the art and science of joining metal. The skill is sought after in a wide variety of industries. Many of our students who complete the welding program at All-State say they love their jobs, and they provide several reasons.
A Quick Career Path
Jobs that require a college degree can mean years of schooling and loads of tuition. Welding programs, however, can be completed in a much shorter period of time. While there is some traditional classroom instruction in a welding program, students spend a considerable amount of time learning the hands-on skills they need. Welding students can get started on their new career path in less time than they think.
Erik says he chose welding because he could be on a fast track to a career.
Opportunities
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of welders is projected to grow over the next decade. Welding is an important skill needed to help rebuild bridges, highways, and buildings, and the government’s commitment to improving the country’s infrastructure could provide opportunities for welders.
Many industries employ welders, which means that as a welder you can enjoy a variety of exciting work options or choose to specialize in one that is particularly interesting to you. For example, you can work for engineering, construction, robotics, manufacturing, or maintenance companies. You can also travel to new places and become a “road warrior,” working on cruise liners, doing underwater pipeline work, or even working for racing team pit crews.
Ronald H., another welding student from All-State Career, says he chose welding to find new opportunities—including moving to the south to work at a shipyard and escape the snow!
Challenging and Rewarding Work
Successful welders are people who like to be physically active and involved. There is no sitting behind a desk as a welder. But you get to see the results of your effort in tangible items, like ships, aircraft, bridges, and tunnels. Working with your hands to make something that helps improve the lives of others can be very rewarding.
“I learned that I like to be meticulous,” says Erik. “So much goes into welding. It's not just trying to stick two things together. You learn that certain welds hold certain percentages and certain pounds of pressure. You learn that the metal itself will break before the weld breaks. It’s wonderful.”
And unlike office jobs, you won’t bring work home with you. When it’s quitting time, you can leave the job behind and enjoy a satisfying work/life balance.
If you’re like Erik and Ronald and think a welding career will be one you would love, too, All-State Career can put you on the path. Click here for more information or call us today at (855) 834-4580 and speak to one of our career counselors.