So … You want to be a Welder

Jun 3

Well here we go! Our first feature of the Trench. I'm not a welder by trade but I’ve seen a lot of it, from shipbuilders that stick it out all day to the top tier specialty badasses that go deep in the boilers with a heavy hitter and mirror. Couple things they all have in common, melting metal together and grinding it out with one fact - the big money doesn't come easy. The good news is the demand is through the roof, even with the dumpster fire of the last 14 months.

This means there is a lot of money to be made, BIG MONEY. I've met specialty welders making more than doctors believe it or not. Some to the tune of 200k a year...do I have your attention now?

Now how do you get started ? There isn't a step by step process but we’ll be the guiding light for those that don’t know where to start.

4 TIPS TO GET STARTED

Just Start. Don't focus on exactly what type of welding you want to do, just get started. Starting is the biggest part and you’ll be able to make the right decision as things start moving.

It’s an Art. Fact of the matter is some of the most determined wont even cut it, natural born ability definitely comes into play

Get in the Field! ( if you’re not already) even if its just as a laborer for the summer. Start getting industry knowledge and making connections. Open jobs are good, good connections are great. This goes a long way. You’ll also learn how to talk the talk.

Remember, it Takes Time. Its a grind-practice and time will be your best friends in the conquest to start the fusion. Save up for a welder at home and start finding out what a dingleberry really is.

Now for the schools...here is my list of the top welding schools in the nation. Keep in mind, this doesn't mean the biggest, most graduates, or cheapest rates. I looked at instructor experience, owner pride, curriculum, and even response time as I reached out to each of these schools.

Simply put these are the ones that actually give a shit and will help you actually grow as a welder, during and after.