In a recent post, we talked about the welder shortage America is facing.

To give a quick recap, in 1988, there were 570,000 welders in the US. As of 2012, there were 360,000. By 2020, the American Welding Society estimates we’ll need 290,000 more welders than we’ll have.

The reason for the shortage likely stems from a combination of the pressure on Millennials to earn four year degrees and a general stigma surrounding trade jobs.

But the truth is, welding and fabrication is perfectly respectable field to be in that offers steady work and quality pay. Plus you can earn your initial welding certification in months, not years, all for a much, much lower cost than a traditional four year degree.

With the current demand for welders, job placement and stability are guaranteed.

So how does one become a welder? It’s simple. You start by learning the trade.

For Those Still in High School

As with many things, the younger you can start preparing, the easier it will be in the long run. If you’re currently in high school, take some basic shop classes and pay close attention in your standard math and science classes.

An engineering class certainly doesn’t hurt either.

This can get you acquainted with the machinery, the methods, and the science behind how welding works.

For those who have already graduated, don’t worry. You can still just as easily become a welder.

Training and School

While some welding companies may be willing to train you on the job, most will expect you to have formal training and education. It’s not as complicated as it sounds.

The time it takes to be job ready will depend on what path you take. The quickest route is to earn a welding certificate. Typically, this can be done in months by taking a few classes. With certification in hand, you’ll have the welding basics down, and you should be able to land a steady job.

If you want to go more in depth, you can go for an associates degree in welding. Associates degrees are typically two-year programs. While more classes, more time, and more money are involved, the results can be worth it. For starters, you’ll know how to do much more about the craft, opening up more job opportunities while providing a higher ceiling of advancement.

This will also result in more money earned.

Many choose to get their initial certification, land a job, and then finish additional school while working. The choice is up to you. Who knows, maybe you’ll one day end up working for us at Ever-Roll.

We have a great team capable of making some of the best tubes and welded rings you’ll find.

Wherever you end up, we wish you luck on your journey to becoming a welder. It’s a great craft.