Discover Hands-On Welding Training and Advancement Opportunities

If you like working with your hands, are looking for an in-demand career with great job security, and are excited by the prospect of working with new technologies and innovations, welding could be the perfect job for you. Welding offers many opportunities for specialization, advancement, and growth. Starting a career in welding will require hard work and dedication, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Beginning a career in welding can be as easy as finding the right welding company to bring you in and give you the on-the-job training that will set you up for a lifetime of success.

Vocational School vs. On-the Job Training  

If you are interested in starting a career as a welder, you will need training to get started. The only prerequisite to begin your training is a high school diploma or GED, but before you can become a certified welder, you will need to spend some time learning the craft. Welders need to know how to read and understand blueprints, have knowledge of welding techniques, and proficiency in using welding tools and equipment as well as safety knowledge. Over time you will develop excellent manual dexterity and precision skills, and the stamina to work in this demanding environment. You can get your training and hone your skills in several different ways. 

Technical colleges, vocational schools, or trade schools are a very popular way to begin a career as a welder. Typically these schools will offer a degree or certification program that will involve a combination of classwork and hands-on training. You can expect these programs to take 1-2 years to complete, and you will likely need to invest a few thousand dollars in the program. One of the great advantages of going through a trade school are the flexible schedules designed for working adults, job placement assistance after graduation, and help getting your certification. You’ll likely develop a variety of basic skills that will allow you to get an entry level welding job in several different industries.

Another option is an apprenticeship or on-the-job training. You can begin working with a master welder right away, learning the skills and information you will need while gaining practical experience. Instead of investing money in your education, you will begin earning right away. Because your education will take place in a practical environment, you will understand the importance of each skill or concept and have the opportunity to learn from mentors who are dedicated to training the next generation of welders. 

Practical Training Will Shape Your Skills

While having knowledge of techniques, safety codes, and skills are essential to your success as a welder, it is the practical training that will really shape your skills and lead to your success. This is where opting for on-the-job training has the greatest benefit. Aspiring welders will hone their skills by getting experience and practicing the techniques in real-life situations. In an on-the-job training situation, you will be matched with a mentor who will guide you through the learning process, helping you develop and sharpen your new skills. Experienced welders make the best teachers, and their skill and proficiency in using welding tools and equipment can be passed on to you. Many welding companies embrace this approach, preserving the skills and knowledge they’ve built over years, and welcoming the new methods and technologies that are coming. 

Getting Hands-On Training Will Impact Your Career Trajectory

Many fabrication shops that embrace hands-on and mentor-based training also value continuous education. Every member of the team is encouraged to master new techniques, stay current with the latest welding trends such as robotic welding, laser welding, and other new methods, and develop specialized skills necessary to work in different industries. Once you have the essentials mastered, you can focus on career advancement. Sometimes, welders will advance in their career by becoming specialists. In other cases, welders will advance in their career by moving through additional certifications that allow them to become welding inspectors, welding engineers, welding instructors, or welding supervisors. Some welders will find they have a talent for project management, and can move from working as a technician on a project to organizing and managing jobs from start to finish. Starting with hands-on training in a welding company that values education means that you will always have support as you advance in your welding career.

Find Your Career Home at Swanton

The working environment at Swanton Welding Company is perfect for career development. We understand that our team is the most valuable resource. They allow us to maintain our reputation for quality work. Swanton Welding Company demonstrates this dedication by having:

• On-the-job training and mentorship for new employees.
• A culture of continuous improvement that encourages team members to pursue knowledge in new techniques and methods.
• A safe environment that protects our team through rigorous safety standards.
• A focus on promoting and advancing within the company, always looking to give our team members opportunities to progress in their careers with Swanton.
• A tight-knit team of welders who support each other and value collaboration.

If you’re ready to explore a career in welding, Swanton Welding Company can give you the opportunity to earn as you learn with on-the-job training. Our approach to teaching and mentoring will set you on a path toward career development, stability, and advancement. If you’re interested in learning more about our job opportunities, contact Swanton Welding Company today.