Diversity and Inclusion in Welding: How We Train and Support All Employees
Swanton Welding is a family, and we are committed to welcoming anyone into our family who has the passion and desire to be a member. Welding shops often have the stereotype of looking a certain way, but at Swanton, we are trying to recruit, train, and retain employees from all genders and backgrounds. An inclusive welding shop is a space where anyone can thrive in many different roles, and we know that when we are open and inclusive, we are building a shop that many other employees can call home.
Swanton’s Commitment to Diversity: What Does a Diverse Welding Shop Look Like?
When discussing diversity in the workplace, it is still assumed that we are talking about giving equal opportunities to different races and cultures. While our commitment to a diverse company that accurately reflects the diversity of our society remains strong, welding, along with the other skilled trades, needs commitment to diversity in more areas, particularly regarding gender.
We’ve come a long way from the era of “men’s work” and “women’s work,” yet many trades still have the reputation of being fields primarily dominated by men. Although there may not be any official barriers against women in the welding profession, women looking to pursue a welding career still face many challenges and stereotypes that can deter them. At Swanton, we are focused on making our shop open to all genders. This rewarding career should not be limited, and we are actively defying societal expectations of what a welder should look like. Many women who enter the welding field feel they must work harder and prove themselves more than men new to the field to earn respect and recognition. At Swanton, we train our employees that no one should face bias or skepticism. Quality work is quality work. As more women join our ranks, we are helping to transform the industry, inspiring more women to follow.
On-the-Job Training is Designed to Support a Diverse Workforce
While there are many different paths to begin a career in welding, on-the-job training has multiple advantages, including supporting a diverse workforce. With on-the-job training, personalized learning opportunities exist for other cultures, genders, and abilities. Rather than sitting in class and being forced to learn and progress at the same rate as the group, with on-the-job training, every new welder will learn from a mentor and master welder who can meet them where they are and take them through the knowledge and skills they will need to begin their career at their own pace. Those from diverse backgrounds, with different abilities, and different genders who go through a mentor or apprentice program do not face the same level of stereotyping and prejudice that those in a trade school may, and as a result, are more likely to stay in the profession, knowing they have the support of their welding shop community. As challenges arise, particularly those related to stereotypes, the mentors can help the new generation navigate those obstacles.
Swanton Needs More than Our Welders to Thrive
While skilled, experienced, and high-quality welders are essential to Swanton’s success, we could not be a successful shop with welders alone. Swanton Welding cares about having a diverse and thriving team of trade and non-trade roles that make us strong. Swanton is committed to exceptional support for non-trade positions, like administrative and management roles. Both men and women of all races, cultures, and abilities can find a place on the floor and in the offices. We look at the person and their skill set, not their gender or background, when building our team, promoting from within and mentoring our new workforce. We know that a successful welding shop needs a broad skill spectrum, and our commitment to every one of our employees reflects the commitment to this broad skill spectrum.
Swanton is a Culture Where Anyone Can Belong
Anyone can say the right things and put the right buzzwords out there, but unless you live the culture, words are just words. Swanton’s commitment to diversity and inclusion has created a culture of respect, teamwork, and support, fostering a welcoming environment where every employee can thrive. We don’t just say the right things – we do the right things. We have no tolerance for anyone who creates a toxic working environment and makes sure that our mentors and long-term employees are there to pull everyone up. When we help others to thrive, we all thrive. When we make every member of our team feel valued, we strengthen the team.
Swanton Welding is all about the people. We pride ourselves on ensuring every employee feels valued, from the newest who are just getting their first hours of on-the-job training to those who have been with us for years. Our mentorship program connects our entire team and gives every employee someone to go to who they can trust when facing challenges, whether those challenges are related to inclusion and stereotypes or simply the challenges of learning a new skill. At Swanton, we know that quality workers can come from anywhere, and once they are in our family, we want to see them succeed.
Start Earning and Learning Today
We believe that a truly inclusive workplace isn’t built on words alone—it’s built through action, support, and mutual respect. For anyone considering a career here, know that this is a place where your skills, dedication, and character define you—not your background, gender, or any stereotypes society may place on the industry. We’re committed to cultivating a strong team where everyone can learn, grow, and be respected for the value they bring.
If you’re ready to join a work community eager to invest in your success and welcome you for who you are, Swanton Welding is where it’s at. Contact us to learn more about our incredible job opportunities.
