5 answers
nathan
Student
Portland, Oregon
1
Question
Asked
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Career Path in Welding?
i as a 16 year old student would like to ask welders / mechanical operators questions about the career path. Can you describe what your current responsibilites in this field of work would be? What would a typical day look like for me? What are qualities of a welder that I can apply to myself.
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5 answers
Ed Wheatley
Project Manager
3
Answers
Festus, Missouri
Updated
Ed’s Answer
Hi, Nathan. I'm happy to see your interest in the welding trades industry. You're asking very insightful questions. My responses are below.
Welding is a very diverse trade and science - it's hard to touch something in our modern world that hasn't involved or depended on welding at some point in it's existence. From the obvious end user items where the welding is evident and part of the finished product (cars, bridges, buildings, disposable razors) to things where the tie to welding may be more obscure such as electrical power, tooth paste, and gasoline - welding touches everything! Likewise, the forms and applications of welding vary greatly - from the basic manual processes most people are familiar with (SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, etc.) to advanced joining processes such as laser and friction stir welding.
What is the average work day like and what are the responsibilities? This is somewhat difficult to answer due to the wide variety of jobs within the industry. Generally speaking, welders typically work alone or in small groups/teams. There are occupational and health hazards related to welding that are common across most manual welding jobs. These hazards include things such as burn hazards, electrical shock, fume, and noise exposure to name a few.
In a production environment, a welder will likely be indoors in a shop or factory. Depending on the nature of the product(s) being produced, the shops could be climate controlled (sometimes highly climate controlled) but frequently are not. Production welders typically produce the same or similar product(s) on a repetitive basis. They will sometimes use jigs and fixtures in their work. Production welding is frequently automated - sometimes even using robots! In construction work, welders can generally expect to find themselves outdoors or semi-outdoors as their work is supporting the construction of a building, structure, or facility that previously did not exist or is being modified. Construction work presents a host of potential hazards including working from heights, working in confined spaces, temperature/weather extremes, and rigging/lifting hazards. In a maintenance welding application, the welder will be working in a facility where welding is used to maintain or repair processing and manufacturing equipment. Similar to construction welders, maintenance welders can find themselves indoors or outdoors and can encounter all the hazards associated with construction work. In addition to these, maintenance welders can also be exposed to hazardous chemicals and equipment that is in operation near to where they're working.
What kinds of skills do I need to succeed in the field? Curiosity, willingness to learn, safety conscientiousness, and a strong work ethic will serve you well in the welding industry.
Welding is a very diverse trade and science - it's hard to touch something in our modern world that hasn't involved or depended on welding at some point in it's existence. From the obvious end user items where the welding is evident and part of the finished product (cars, bridges, buildings, disposable razors) to things where the tie to welding may be more obscure such as electrical power, tooth paste, and gasoline - welding touches everything! Likewise, the forms and applications of welding vary greatly - from the basic manual processes most people are familiar with (SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, etc.) to advanced joining processes such as laser and friction stir welding.
What is the average work day like and what are the responsibilities? This is somewhat difficult to answer due to the wide variety of jobs within the industry. Generally speaking, welders typically work alone or in small groups/teams. There are occupational and health hazards related to welding that are common across most manual welding jobs. These hazards include things such as burn hazards, electrical shock, fume, and noise exposure to name a few.
In a production environment, a welder will likely be indoors in a shop or factory. Depending on the nature of the product(s) being produced, the shops could be climate controlled (sometimes highly climate controlled) but frequently are not. Production welders typically produce the same or similar product(s) on a repetitive basis. They will sometimes use jigs and fixtures in their work. Production welding is frequently automated - sometimes even using robots! In construction work, welders can generally expect to find themselves outdoors or semi-outdoors as their work is supporting the construction of a building, structure, or facility that previously did not exist or is being modified. Construction work presents a host of potential hazards including working from heights, working in confined spaces, temperature/weather extremes, and rigging/lifting hazards. In a maintenance welding application, the welder will be working in a facility where welding is used to maintain or repair processing and manufacturing equipment. Similar to construction welders, maintenance welders can find themselves indoors or outdoors and can encounter all the hazards associated with construction work. In addition to these, maintenance welders can also be exposed to hazardous chemicals and equipment that is in operation near to where they're working.
What kinds of skills do I need to succeed in the field? Curiosity, willingness to learn, safety conscientiousness, and a strong work ethic will serve you well in the welding industry.
Chosen Osarodion Iyen
Maintenance
66
Answers
Benin City, Edo, Nigeria
Updated
Chosen Osarodion’s Answer
### Current Responsibilities in Welding
As a welder, your responsibilities may include:
1. **Reading Blueprints and Specifications**: Understanding the design and dimensions of the project.
2. **Preparing Materials**: Cutting, shaping, and arranging materials for welding.
3. **Welding**: Joining materials using various welding techniques like MIG (Metal Inert Gas), TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas), and arc welding.
4. **Inspecting and Testing**: Ensuring welds are strong and meet quality standards through visual inspection and testing.
5. **Maintaining Equipment**: Keeping welding tools and machines in good working order.
6. **Safety Compliance**: Following safety protocols to protect yourself and others from hazards.
### Typical Day for a Welder
A typical day for a welder might look like this:
1. **Morning**:
- Review daily assignments and blueprints.
- Set up your workspace and prepare materials.
- Perform initial welds and conduct quality checks.
2. **Midday**:
- Continue welding projects, taking breaks as needed.
- Perform routine maintenance on equipment.
- Collaborate with colleagues on larger projects.
3. **Afternoon**:
- Inspect and test completed welds.
- Document work and any issues encountered.
- Clean up your workspace and store tools safely.
### Qualities of a Welder
To be successful in welding, consider applying these qualities to yourself:
1. **Attention to Detail**: Precision is crucial for strong, clean welds.
2. **Physical Stamina and Strength**: Welding can be physically demanding.
3. **Manual Dexterity**: Steady hands and good hand-eye coordination are essential.
4. **Problem-Solving Skills**: Ability to troubleshoot and fix issues as they arise.
5. **Patience and Persistence**: Some projects take time and require repetitive work.
6. **Safety-Conscious**: Always prioritizing safety to prevent accidents and injuries.
### Asking Welders/Mechanical Operators
When speaking with professionals in the field, consider asking these questions:
1. What led you to choose welding as a career?
2. What training or certifications did you need to start?
3. What are the biggest challenges you face in your daily work?
4. How do you stay current with new welding technologies and techniques?
5. What advice would you give to someone considering a career in welding?
As a welder, your responsibilities may include:
1. **Reading Blueprints and Specifications**: Understanding the design and dimensions of the project.
2. **Preparing Materials**: Cutting, shaping, and arranging materials for welding.
3. **Welding**: Joining materials using various welding techniques like MIG (Metal Inert Gas), TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas), and arc welding.
4. **Inspecting and Testing**: Ensuring welds are strong and meet quality standards through visual inspection and testing.
5. **Maintaining Equipment**: Keeping welding tools and machines in good working order.
6. **Safety Compliance**: Following safety protocols to protect yourself and others from hazards.
### Typical Day for a Welder
A typical day for a welder might look like this:
1. **Morning**:
- Review daily assignments and blueprints.
- Set up your workspace and prepare materials.
- Perform initial welds and conduct quality checks.
2. **Midday**:
- Continue welding projects, taking breaks as needed.
- Perform routine maintenance on equipment.
- Collaborate with colleagues on larger projects.
3. **Afternoon**:
- Inspect and test completed welds.
- Document work and any issues encountered.
- Clean up your workspace and store tools safely.
### Qualities of a Welder
To be successful in welding, consider applying these qualities to yourself:
1. **Attention to Detail**: Precision is crucial for strong, clean welds.
2. **Physical Stamina and Strength**: Welding can be physically demanding.
3. **Manual Dexterity**: Steady hands and good hand-eye coordination are essential.
4. **Problem-Solving Skills**: Ability to troubleshoot and fix issues as they arise.
5. **Patience and Persistence**: Some projects take time and require repetitive work.
6. **Safety-Conscious**: Always prioritizing safety to prevent accidents and injuries.
### Asking Welders/Mechanical Operators
When speaking with professionals in the field, consider asking these questions:
1. What led you to choose welding as a career?
2. What training or certifications did you need to start?
3. What are the biggest challenges you face in your daily work?
4. How do you stay current with new welding technologies and techniques?
5. What advice would you give to someone considering a career in welding?
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
5667
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Nathan!
Career Path in Welding
In the field of welding, there are various career paths and opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a welder or mechanical operator. As a 16-year-old student exploring this field, it’s essential to understand the responsibilities, typical day-to-day activities, and qualities required to excel in this profession.
Responsibilities in Welding:
Welders are responsible for joining metal parts together using various welding techniques such as arc welding, MIG welding, TIG welding, and more.
They interpret blueprints, specifications, and instructions to determine the appropriate welding process.
Inspecting and testing welded surfaces to ensure they meet quality standards.
Maintaining welding equipment and ensuring a safe working environment.
Typical Day in the Life of a Welder: A typical day for a welder may involve:
Reviewing work orders and blueprints to determine the materials needed and the welding process required.
Preparing metal surfaces by cleaning, cutting, or shaping them as necessary.
Setting up welding equipment and selecting the appropriate welding technique.
Welding metal components together according to specifications.
Inspecting finished welds for quality and making any necessary repairs.
Qualities of a Successful Welder:
Attention to Detail: Precision is crucial in welding to ensure strong and durable welds.
Physical Strength: Welding often involves working with heavy materials and equipment, requiring physical strength.
Problem-Solving Skills: Being able to troubleshoot issues with welds or equipment is essential.
Technical Skills: Understanding different welding techniques and being able to operate welding equipment effectively.
Safety Consciousness: Prioritizing safety protocols to prevent accidents and injuries in the workplace.
By developing these qualities and skills, you can prepare yourself for a successful career in welding. It’s also beneficial to seek mentorship from experienced welders or enroll in vocational training programs to gain hands-on experience.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
American Welding Society (AWS) - The AWS is a leading organization that provides resources, certifications, and industry standards for professionals in the welding field.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - The BLS offers detailed information on job outlook, salary data, and educational requirements for careers in welding.
Welding Career Path Guide by Tulsa Welding School - This comprehensive guide offers insights into different career paths within the welding industry and provides valuable information for individuals considering a career in welding.
God Bless You,
JC.
Career Path in Welding
In the field of welding, there are various career paths and opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a welder or mechanical operator. As a 16-year-old student exploring this field, it’s essential to understand the responsibilities, typical day-to-day activities, and qualities required to excel in this profession.
Responsibilities in Welding:
Welders are responsible for joining metal parts together using various welding techniques such as arc welding, MIG welding, TIG welding, and more.
They interpret blueprints, specifications, and instructions to determine the appropriate welding process.
Inspecting and testing welded surfaces to ensure they meet quality standards.
Maintaining welding equipment and ensuring a safe working environment.
Typical Day in the Life of a Welder: A typical day for a welder may involve:
Reviewing work orders and blueprints to determine the materials needed and the welding process required.
Preparing metal surfaces by cleaning, cutting, or shaping them as necessary.
Setting up welding equipment and selecting the appropriate welding technique.
Welding metal components together according to specifications.
Inspecting finished welds for quality and making any necessary repairs.
Qualities of a Successful Welder:
Attention to Detail: Precision is crucial in welding to ensure strong and durable welds.
Physical Strength: Welding often involves working with heavy materials and equipment, requiring physical strength.
Problem-Solving Skills: Being able to troubleshoot issues with welds or equipment is essential.
Technical Skills: Understanding different welding techniques and being able to operate welding equipment effectively.
Safety Consciousness: Prioritizing safety protocols to prevent accidents and injuries in the workplace.
By developing these qualities and skills, you can prepare yourself for a successful career in welding. It’s also beneficial to seek mentorship from experienced welders or enroll in vocational training programs to gain hands-on experience.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
American Welding Society (AWS) - The AWS is a leading organization that provides resources, certifications, and industry standards for professionals in the welding field.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - The BLS offers detailed information on job outlook, salary data, and educational requirements for careers in welding.
Welding Career Path Guide by Tulsa Welding School - This comprehensive guide offers insights into different career paths within the welding industry and provides valuable information for individuals considering a career in welding.
God Bless You,
JC.
Reema Patel
sales associate
86
Answers
Greenwood, South Carolina
Updated
Reema’s Answer
As an eager 16-year-old with an interest in welding, don't hesitate to connect with experienced welders or mechanical operators - they can offer you a wealth of knowledge about this exciting career path. Welders play a crucial role in joining metal parts together using a variety of techniques such as MIG, TIG, and arc welding. Their duties involve reading and understanding blueprints, maintaining welding equipment, and ensuring the robustness of their work.
Imagine a day in the life of a welder: it starts with reviewing the day's projects, setting up the workspace, and prepping materials. Then, the real magic happens as they dive into the welding tasks, requiring keen precision and meticulous attention to detail. Throughout the day, they check their work for top-notch quality, make any necessary tweaks, and perform regular maintenance on their tools.
What does it take to be a great welder? Attention to detail, excellent hand-eye coordination, and the ability to thrive in challenging environments are key. Physical stamina and dexterity are also vital, as welding can be a physically engaging job. Moreover, problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of safety protocols are indispensable. As you venture into this career path, strive to cultivate these qualities in yourself.
You can boost your skills and confidence by getting hands-on practice, enrolling in vocational welding courses, and seeking guidance from seasoned welders. This journey may be challenging, but remember, every step you take is bringing you closer to success in the welding field. So, gear up and get ready to create, because the world of welding awaits you!
Imagine a day in the life of a welder: it starts with reviewing the day's projects, setting up the workspace, and prepping materials. Then, the real magic happens as they dive into the welding tasks, requiring keen precision and meticulous attention to detail. Throughout the day, they check their work for top-notch quality, make any necessary tweaks, and perform regular maintenance on their tools.
What does it take to be a great welder? Attention to detail, excellent hand-eye coordination, and the ability to thrive in challenging environments are key. Physical stamina and dexterity are also vital, as welding can be a physically engaging job. Moreover, problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of safety protocols are indispensable. As you venture into this career path, strive to cultivate these qualities in yourself.
You can boost your skills and confidence by getting hands-on practice, enrolling in vocational welding courses, and seeking guidance from seasoned welders. This journey may be challenging, but remember, every step you take is bringing you closer to success in the welding field. So, gear up and get ready to create, because the world of welding awaits you!
Sheila Schultz
Engineering Leader
46
Answers
Brighton, Michigan
Updated
Sheila’s Answer
Hi Nathan,
This is a great question!
I will comment from the perspective of the proving ground garage where I have worked. Our team included electrical, general assembly and fabrication technicians and our focus was automotive and military advanced future vehicles. The work varied daily which made it very exciting. Welding was critical in the building of our advanced concept vehicles. Our Fabrication technicians fabricated small to very large parts – using numerous types of shop equipment, welding, working with engineers and CAD designers to develop concept vehicles including providing input on designs and concepts, and inventing. Our team was highly skilled and in great demand – it is a great field to go into.
Best wishes as you explore your future career.
This is a great question!
I will comment from the perspective of the proving ground garage where I have worked. Our team included electrical, general assembly and fabrication technicians and our focus was automotive and military advanced future vehicles. The work varied daily which made it very exciting. Welding was critical in the building of our advanced concept vehicles. Our Fabrication technicians fabricated small to very large parts – using numerous types of shop equipment, welding, working with engineers and CAD designers to develop concept vehicles including providing input on designs and concepts, and inventing. Our team was highly skilled and in great demand – it is a great field to go into.
Best wishes as you explore your future career.