2 answers
John
Student
Hinsdale, Massachusetts
1
Question
Asked
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Is it better to get a job welding on a pipeline or work in a fabrication shop?
Hey Im John, I from a small town in MA I haven't really decided what I want to do but I'm throwing around a couple ideas of maybe going to welding school or maybe a technical school for auto mechanics after highschool any advice would be greatly apreciated. #bluecollar #thankyou
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2 answers
Eric Packer
Structural engineer
91
Answers
Boise, Idaho
Updated
Eric’s Answer
Hi John,
A career in welding can be rewarding and there will likely always be a demand for welders for the unforeseeable future. Whether to work in a field application, such as on pipelines or as a building erector, or to work in a fabrication shop is more of a preference on location. Work in the field will often require extensive travel that often comes with good pay but that time away from home can be taxing. You might consider working in a field application during your first few years and then transition to a fabrication shop once you become more established (i.e, buy a home, start a family, etc). Welding done in a fabrication shop is done with better quality control than welding done in the field. But, having field experience will be beneficial to understanding how to apply the most suitable shop welding procedures for a particular condition so that the field welders can avoid difficult welding conditions.
All the best,
Eric
A career in welding can be rewarding and there will likely always be a demand for welders for the unforeseeable future. Whether to work in a field application, such as on pipelines or as a building erector, or to work in a fabrication shop is more of a preference on location. Work in the field will often require extensive travel that often comes with good pay but that time away from home can be taxing. You might consider working in a field application during your first few years and then transition to a fabrication shop once you become more established (i.e, buy a home, start a family, etc). Welding done in a fabrication shop is done with better quality control than welding done in the field. But, having field experience will be beneficial to understanding how to apply the most suitable shop welding procedures for a particular condition so that the field welders can avoid difficult welding conditions.
All the best,
Eric
Anita Liu
Service
3
Answers
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Updated
Anita’s Answer
hi John,
Two things critical for your career are:
- Chasing for what you like
- Being the top player
Try to do some research and talk with people who are working there. Imagine and evaluate what can you do after 5 years later. Long term goal and plan is important. Life is a marathon rather than a 1km running.
Two things critical for your career are:
- Chasing for what you like
- Being the top player
Try to do some research and talk with people who are working there. Imagine and evaluate what can you do after 5 years later. Long term goal and plan is important. Life is a marathon rather than a 1km running.