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What is the biggest challenge you've faced as a Welder and how did you overcome it?

Is there a time when you failed as a welder. What did you learn and what would you do differently? What were your duties in your previous role as a welder? What's your favorite part about being a welder?

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John’s Answer

Hi, that's a tough one. My welding experience is all with the military so take this for what it is. I had a small ship come through my unit on the way to its home port with a crack on the deck in the front of the ship. This allowed some water to seep in but no daylight was visible. Once we started cleaning everything up it became apparent that this was going to be a bigger job than they had time for (they were scheduled to leave to continue on their way home). I worked with the Port Engineer and guaranteed that my shop could weld it up and get them home water tight but that given the remote location of our shop, we didn't have the means and supplies needed to do the job the way it needed to be done. I explained that I would prefer to crop out the old metal that was in poor shape and weld in new plate and that this repair was a temporary fix that would need to be addressed shortly after returning home. The permanent fix wasn't an option so we went with what we could do. They made it, water tight, but our plan and reasons why didn't make it up the chain to leadership who was not happy. Some failures are going to happen in welding and in life even if you do everything you can the best you can. I learned to not take a job like that without ensuring I know and get confirmation that leadership knows what I'm planning. I also learned to keep more stock for jobs that might come in unexpectedly.

Previously I started as a what would be considered an apprentice doing simple welds and the bulk of the prep, cleaning, set up and clean up. From there I was a competent journeyman level welder working alone or running jobs with multiple welders. After that I was shop supervisor which would be like a foreman. Now I sit behind a desk and plan things and ensure they are done by the plans/scope.

I've always enjoyed being able to fix things. Take somethings that's broken and usable and make it work again. I also really enjoy the fabricating aspect. It's really cool to take someones idea or rough sketch and make it. It's rewarding to see someones vision come to life because of your skills and ability.

Hope this helps, good luck.
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Terry’s Answer

Hard work anywhere pays off no matter what field you go into. Tech classes maybe the way to go, there is a huge shortage of electricians, plumbers, installers of millwork and etc. Everyone is looking for people that want to learn. They all are willing to train you.
Thank you comment icon Hi Terry, I'm not sure if this directly answers the student's question. Are you suggesting that a lack of tech classes could pose a challenge for this student if they go into welding? Gurpreet Lally, Admin
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