Tech Directions - February 2009 - (Page 23) Training High School Mathematics ● English ● Welding ● Working Conditions Drafting ● Electronics ● Physics ● Technology education ● Computer science ● Technical or shop courses ● Postsecondary Traditionally, you could become a welding technician with only a high school diploma and some related technical experience. Today, however, most employers prefer to hire beginners who have some postsecondary training in welding, industrial technology, electricity/ electronics, automation and robotics, or a related field where welding is part of the curriculum. Throughout the U.S., there are approximately 700 postsecondary training programs available at community colleges or technical schools that focus primarily on the preparation of welding technicians. Students in these programs take classes on specialized topics, such as welding, math, process and fabrication fundamentals, automation/robotics, materials science, electricity/electronics, and manufacturing systems. Training in a related field, such as mechanical or electrical technology can provide adequate preparation for employment; however, additional courses in welding will be required. Welding technicians can also enter the field through an apprenticeship program. Several trade unions, such as Sheetmetal Workers, Ironworkers, Carpenters, and United Associations (including the Pipefitters, Plumbers, Sprinklerfitters, and Steamfitters Unions) have 3- to 5-year “earn while you learn” apprenticeships. Upon completion, participants may receive an associate’s degree in a welding discipline, plus help with employment through local unions. Working conditions vary greatly depending on type of job performed. Many technicians install, test, or repair equipment in factories and may work alone or in pairs. Although their basic work week is 35 to 40 hours, these technicians may be required to work night or weekend shifts and overtime on occasion. At times, they may be required to lift heavy parts and tools, handle greasy and dirty parts, and stand or lie in awkward positions. Those who work in laboratories or shops are often part of a team that includes other technicians, skilled workers, and engineers. Sometimes technicians must travel to inspect equipment in the field, and in many cases, they must deal with a wide range of customers and coworkers. Good communication skills, both written and verbal, are crucial. Because welding technicians often deal with a variety of problems and solutions, the work is challenging and not repetitious. Workers find their jobs highly enjoyable and satisfying. Employment Outlook Because welding is used in so many different industries, the need for technicians is growing rapidly. Currently, the demand for trained workers exceeds the supply. In addition, the number of retirements in the field is opening up even more opportunities. Welding and materials joining continues to be important in most markets, such as automotive, aerospace, shipbuilding, construction, and reestablished older markets, such as general manufacturing and heavy construction. Therefore, the welding industry is expected to remain strong through the next decade. Certification Certifications to a variety of standards are offered through the American Welding Society (AWS). Applicants must have job experience and should attend a preparation course prior to taking written exams. AWS recently approved a Welding Technician Qualification Standard, which is the first step towards creating a certification for welding technicians. Where the Jobs Are Aerospace industry Construction industry Agricultural industry Shipbuilding industry Automotive industry Medical devices industries General manufacturing Nuclear industry Chemical processing industry Advancement Opportunities Experienced welding technicians can become manufacturing managers or supervisors of maintenance crews in plants. They can also advance to careers in sales, marketing, management, technical writing, or teaching. Professional Associations American Welding Society www.aws.org Weld Ed—National Center for Welding Education and Training www.weld-ed.org International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers www.iamaw.org www.techdirections.com CAREER DIRECTIONS 23 http://www.aws.org http://www.weld-ed.org http://www.iamaw.org http://www.techdirections.com
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