2 answers
GJ’s Answer
John's answer makes a lot of sense to me. I've never been a welding diver myself but I've worked with someone who has been for a few years and he told me it is exciting but can be physically tough; long hours under tough circumstances. It can be boring at times as well; traveling is nice for a while but can get boring. Add to that a lot of waiting time (materials, weather, waiting for others to finish their job). BUT: a specialized job that pays well.
Do you want stability? same place, regular working hours, steady income? or do you prefer traveling, being challenged with keeping up with the latest development, high pays? longer periods of working and time off or 9-5?
John’s Answer
Commercial diving is definitely way different from the pipeline or traditional welding.
Diving per se requires skills of right buoyancy, correct breathing techniques, managing currents and swells, ability to see through dirt/muck (visibility), and above all, no fear of the being underwater for sustained periods (usually >45 mins)
As a commercial diver, you'll need to have the above diving skills along with the handling the apparatus/tool for underwater welding. It's way different from traditional welding, but pays way above that as well.
John recommends the following next steps: