6 answers
Jonathan
Student
Odessa, Texas
2
Questions
Asked
741 views
what are some things you wish you knew before starting you're trade?
i am looking into welding as a trade after taking a compatibility exam ive found im supposedly more suited for computer and finance an am looking for insight on the matter
6 answers
Daniel Chasteen
Welder
29
Answers
Pontiac, Illinois
Updated
Daniel’s Answer
As someone who's been passionately welding for nearly two decades, I often find myself wishing I had kept one foot in the classroom after finishing trade school. I bypassed college and dove headfirst into the trades, which served me well for many years. However, I've recently returned to school to bolster my career prospects. Experience and time are valuable teachers, but they can only take you so far. To truly ascend in my field, I realized I needed formal degrees.
Had I immediately pursued further education in welding after trade school, I would have had a wider range of opportunities. Now, with my sights set on becoming a welding instructor, I plan to emphasize this point to my future students: Don't halt your education just because you've secured a job. Continual learning is key to personal and professional growth.
Had I immediately pursued further education in welding after trade school, I would have had a wider range of opportunities. Now, with my sights set on becoming a welding instructor, I plan to emphasize this point to my future students: Don't halt your education just because you've secured a job. Continual learning is key to personal and professional growth.
Mark Evans
Industrial Arts STEM Teacher
36
Answers
Crete, Illinois
Updated
Mark’s Answer
As an experienced welding instructor for more than a decade, I assure you that welders are highly sought after. You're guaranteed to earn more as a proficient welder than in any entry-level position. In fact, some welders earn substantially over 100K. Plus, the student loans for welding school are significantly lower, saving you from decades of college debt. Rest assured, as a welder, you will always have job security!
Darron McCowan
Welding
1
Answer
Las Cruces, New Mexico
Updated
Darron’s Answer
Hi Jonathan, I’ve been welding since I got out of high school started working in a Fab shop just to try it out and fell in love with welding. So i decided to go to a trade school to perfect my craft. But there’s a side of welding that’s the hard part you see these guys with $100k trucks with the slick machines in the back and you got to really bust your behind to get there especially if your a first generation welder or you don’t know anyone to pull you in. My best advice is start out in a Fab shop or somewhere that lets you weld and see if it’s for you! Remember don’t get discouraged you’ll come across guys that are rude and tell you you can’t do it. Just keep your head up and keep on going.
Elliot Jordan
Web Developer
76
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Elliot’s Answer
Things I wish I knew -
I'd stress the part of the answer below on "soft" skills / people skills. Its very critical. The technology, the hard skills, the book work are all critical but what is never covered in school is soft skills /people skills. You will work with teams and managers and other folks from around an organization. You will encounter a variety of personalities and situations. Sometimes these will require patience, tact, and psychology to negotiate. Read some good management books and business success bestsellers - they help! Read Harvard Business Review and Psychology Today Mag. Read up on how to work effectively with others. Good luck.
I'd stress the part of the answer below on "soft" skills / people skills. Its very critical. The technology, the hard skills, the book work are all critical but what is never covered in school is soft skills /people skills. You will work with teams and managers and other folks from around an organization. You will encounter a variety of personalities and situations. Sometimes these will require patience, tact, and psychology to negotiate. Read some good management books and business success bestsellers - they help! Read Harvard Business Review and Psychology Today Mag. Read up on how to work effectively with others. Good luck.
Ryan Pichardo
Video Editing
5
Answers
Lynn, Massachusetts
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
Starting a career in any trade can be daunting, and there are always lessons learned along the way. Here are some things that many professionals wish they had known before starting their trade, which could apply broadly across various fields:
1. The Importance of Networking
Building a network of contacts within your industry can open doors to opportunities, mentorship, and collaborations that you might not find otherwise.
2. Continuous Learning is Essential
Technology and methodologies evolve rapidly. Being committed to lifelong learning and staying updated with the latest trends and skills is crucial for staying relevant and competitive.
3. Balancing Creativity with Business Acumen
For creative fields, such as fashion design or software development, balancing your creative passion with strong business skills is essential. Understanding marketing, finance, and operations can significantly impact your success.
4. The Value of Soft Skills
Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability are just as important as technical skills. These soft skills help in navigating workplace dynamics and fostering professional relationships.
5. The Reality of Starting Small
Many successful professionals start with small projects or entry-level positions. Patience and perseverance are key, as it takes time to build experience and reputation.
6. The Role of Failure and Resilience
Failure is an inevitable part of the journey. Learning to view failures as opportunities for growth and being resilient in the face of setbacks can lead to long-term success.
1. The Importance of Networking
Building a network of contacts within your industry can open doors to opportunities, mentorship, and collaborations that you might not find otherwise.
2. Continuous Learning is Essential
Technology and methodologies evolve rapidly. Being committed to lifelong learning and staying updated with the latest trends and skills is crucial for staying relevant and competitive.
3. Balancing Creativity with Business Acumen
For creative fields, such as fashion design or software development, balancing your creative passion with strong business skills is essential. Understanding marketing, finance, and operations can significantly impact your success.
4. The Value of Soft Skills
Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability are just as important as technical skills. These soft skills help in navigating workplace dynamics and fostering professional relationships.
5. The Reality of Starting Small
Many successful professionals start with small projects or entry-level positions. Patience and perseverance are key, as it takes time to build experience and reputation.
6. The Role of Failure and Resilience
Failure is an inevitable part of the journey. Learning to view failures as opportunities for growth and being resilient in the face of setbacks can lead to long-term success.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Jonathan
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6180
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Jonathan!
ME:-
[BECAME A DIETITIAN-PROGRAMMER]
I initially didn't take much interest in physics during my 11th grade, but I found my passion in computer programming! Unforeseen circumstances led to the loss of my Uncle during my final 12th grade year, he was just 38. Following this, Professor Masters, who was my Uncle's academic supervisor, began teaching biochemistry at our university. He was quite amiable and remembered my Uncle fondly. This led me to switch my major to biochemistry.
The untimely death of my father at the age of 50 due to cardiovascular disease was a turning point for me. I chose to devote my studies to nutrition and dietetics, with a mission to help those suffering from similar health issues and other nutrition-related conditions. Why did I become a dietitian? To make a difference in people's lives. In 1994, I decided to merge my two skills - computer programming and nutrition education. Since then, I've been developing nutrition education software. Launching a YouTube Studio site has greatly helped in promoting my software, DIET WIZARD.
AI:-
Things to Consider Before Starting a Career in Welding
When contemplating a career in welding, especially after receiving insights from a compatibility exam suggesting strengths in computer and finance, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of this trade. Here are several critical aspects you should consider:
1. Understanding the Trade
Welding is a skilled trade that involves joining materials, typically metals or thermoplastics, using high heat. It requires not only technical skills but also an understanding of various welding techniques (such as MIG, TIG, and Stick welding), safety protocols, and the properties of different materials.
2. Training and Education
Before diving into welding, it’s crucial to understand the educational pathways available:
Vocational Schools: Many community colleges and technical schools offer welding programs that can last from a few months to two years.
Apprenticeships: These programs combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, allowing you to earn while you learn.
Certifications: Obtaining certifications from organizations like the American Welding Society (AWS) can enhance your employability.
3. Job Market Insights
Researching the job market for welders is vital. The demand for skilled welders can vary by region and industry:
Industries: Welders are needed in construction, manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and more.
Job Stability: Welding jobs often provide good job security due to ongoing infrastructure projects and industrial needs.
4. Physical Demands
Welding can be physically demanding:
Work Environment: Expect to work in various environments including outdoors or in confined spaces.
Physical Fitness: Good physical health is important as the job may require lifting heavy materials and standing for long periods.
5. Safety Considerations
Safety is paramount in welding:
Protective Gear: You will need appropriate protective equipment such as helmets with face shields, gloves, and flame-resistant clothing.
Hazards Awareness: Understanding potential hazards like fumes, burns, and electric shock is crucial for your safety.
6. Financial Aspects
While welding can be lucrative:
Initial Investment: There may be costs associated with training programs or purchasing tools.
Earning Potential: Experienced welders can earn competitive salaries; however, entry-level positions may start lower.
7. Career Advancement Opportunities
Welding offers various paths for advancement:
Specialization: You might choose to specialize in specific types of welding or industries.
Management Roles: With experience, there are opportunities to move into supervisory or management positions.
8. Personal Satisfaction
Consider what brings you fulfillment:
If you enjoy hands-on work and seeing tangible results from your efforts, welding could be rewarding.
Conversely, if you prefer working with computers or finance-related tasks more than manual labor, it might be worth exploring those fields further.
Conclusion
Ultimately, before making a decision about pursuing welding as a trade versus following paths aligned with computer science or finance based on your compatibility exam results, reflect on your interests and strengths. Engaging with professionals in both fields through informational interviews could provide valuable insights that help guide your decision-making process.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Welding Society (AWS)
A leading organization providing resources on welding education standards and certification processes.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Offers comprehensive data on job outlooks, salary information, and employment trends across various trades including welding.
National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER)
Provides curriculum guidelines for training programs in construction trades including detailed information about apprenticeship opportunities in welding.
God Bless You,
JC.
ME:-
[BECAME A DIETITIAN-PROGRAMMER]
I initially didn't take much interest in physics during my 11th grade, but I found my passion in computer programming! Unforeseen circumstances led to the loss of my Uncle during my final 12th grade year, he was just 38. Following this, Professor Masters, who was my Uncle's academic supervisor, began teaching biochemistry at our university. He was quite amiable and remembered my Uncle fondly. This led me to switch my major to biochemistry.
The untimely death of my father at the age of 50 due to cardiovascular disease was a turning point for me. I chose to devote my studies to nutrition and dietetics, with a mission to help those suffering from similar health issues and other nutrition-related conditions. Why did I become a dietitian? To make a difference in people's lives. In 1994, I decided to merge my two skills - computer programming and nutrition education. Since then, I've been developing nutrition education software. Launching a YouTube Studio site has greatly helped in promoting my software, DIET WIZARD.
AI:-
Things to Consider Before Starting a Career in Welding
When contemplating a career in welding, especially after receiving insights from a compatibility exam suggesting strengths in computer and finance, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of this trade. Here are several critical aspects you should consider:
1. Understanding the Trade
Welding is a skilled trade that involves joining materials, typically metals or thermoplastics, using high heat. It requires not only technical skills but also an understanding of various welding techniques (such as MIG, TIG, and Stick welding), safety protocols, and the properties of different materials.
2. Training and Education
Before diving into welding, it’s crucial to understand the educational pathways available:
Vocational Schools: Many community colleges and technical schools offer welding programs that can last from a few months to two years.
Apprenticeships: These programs combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, allowing you to earn while you learn.
Certifications: Obtaining certifications from organizations like the American Welding Society (AWS) can enhance your employability.
3. Job Market Insights
Researching the job market for welders is vital. The demand for skilled welders can vary by region and industry:
Industries: Welders are needed in construction, manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and more.
Job Stability: Welding jobs often provide good job security due to ongoing infrastructure projects and industrial needs.
4. Physical Demands
Welding can be physically demanding:
Work Environment: Expect to work in various environments including outdoors or in confined spaces.
Physical Fitness: Good physical health is important as the job may require lifting heavy materials and standing for long periods.
5. Safety Considerations
Safety is paramount in welding:
Protective Gear: You will need appropriate protective equipment such as helmets with face shields, gloves, and flame-resistant clothing.
Hazards Awareness: Understanding potential hazards like fumes, burns, and electric shock is crucial for your safety.
6. Financial Aspects
While welding can be lucrative:
Initial Investment: There may be costs associated with training programs or purchasing tools.
Earning Potential: Experienced welders can earn competitive salaries; however, entry-level positions may start lower.
7. Career Advancement Opportunities
Welding offers various paths for advancement:
Specialization: You might choose to specialize in specific types of welding or industries.
Management Roles: With experience, there are opportunities to move into supervisory or management positions.
8. Personal Satisfaction
Consider what brings you fulfillment:
If you enjoy hands-on work and seeing tangible results from your efforts, welding could be rewarding.
Conversely, if you prefer working with computers or finance-related tasks more than manual labor, it might be worth exploring those fields further.
Conclusion
Ultimately, before making a decision about pursuing welding as a trade versus following paths aligned with computer science or finance based on your compatibility exam results, reflect on your interests and strengths. Engaging with professionals in both fields through informational interviews could provide valuable insights that help guide your decision-making process.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Welding Society (AWS)
A leading organization providing resources on welding education standards and certification processes.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Offers comprehensive data on job outlooks, salary information, and employment trends across various trades including welding.
National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER)
Provides curriculum guidelines for training programs in construction trades including detailed information about apprenticeship opportunities in welding.
God Bless You,
JC.
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