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Why Welding Is Harder Than Most People Think

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Why Welding Is Harder Than Most People Think

Did you ever consider how metal can be bonded to hold up under enormous weights on buildings and bridgesOne of the primary reasons is that expert welders, who are highly trained and skilled, created welds that will withstand the weight and the elements for years to come.  

Experienced welders make the process look simple, but it’s far from it. It’s a skill that combines talent and creativity, honed over years of training, education, and on-the-job experience. The specific duties of a welder will depend on the industry in which they are working. 

Although there are several welding processes, most manufacturing employers are looking for welders familiar with Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding. It’s a type of arc welding in which two metals are heated using an electrical current and joined together.  

Stick welding is another popular arc-welding process. Here, the welder uses rods (sticks) to join various metals. It is the least expensive of the welding procedures and doesn’t require the skill level of the others. 

TIG welding, commonly used for aerospace and piping systems, is the most expensive process and requires the highest skill level. 

If this sounds like a career you want to pursue seriously, here are some details you should know: 

You’ll need to master several skills.

Welders are helping to build ships, cars, planes, and all sorts of structures, so you’ll often find them in the manufacturing and construction industries. They must be able to read blueprints and calculate dimensions and use that information to join metal parts together. Some welders have earned a college degree, but most are just certified.  

Here is a list of skills that you will need to develop to have a successful career in welding: 

  • Math skills: Math skills are a must when you are cutting and trimming metal parts to be welded to the proper dimensions. 
  • Attention to detail: Welders must pay attention to details since they are doing work that must be nearly flawless. 
  • Organizational skills: Welders sometimes work in potentially dangerous environments. Because of this, they need to keep their workspace clean and organized. 
  • Physical abilities: Welders lift, bend, twist, and stoop as they assemble or dismantle large objectsYou’ll also need a steady hand and grip to hold a torch in place for long periods. 
  • Adherence to safety standards: Electrical currents, molten metal, and arc flashes require welders to follow all safety guidelines strictly. 
  • Knowledge of the tools of the trade: Welders must use lifting devices, soldering irons, fillet and butt weld gauges, and all sorts of hand tools. 
  • Ability to learn the newest technology: Since welding methods keep evolving, welders must be willing and able to stay current with the latest technology. In some cases, a welder might oversee automated welding machines, which could require programming and ensuring that the machines are doing their welds correctly. 

Are you ready for a new challenge in this exciting career?

We’re here to help you find it. Contact Pro Resources for welding opportunities and other light industrial or technical/professional positions. We’ve been in business for over 30 years, so let us use our expertise to help you find your next job. 

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