Looking for a job that allows you to work with your hands and is profitable? A welder is a great career choice for those who want to work in the trades. Individuals still in high school will need to meet certain training, educational, and age requirements depending on the state if they want to start their journey.
How Old Do You Need to Be to Become a Welder?
There is no national age requirement mandated for a person to become a welder. Though, many employers will want to you be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or GED.
Some trade schools will accept students at the age of 17 with no requirement for a high school diploma or GED.
If a person begins welding school at the age of 18, they can finish a one-year certificate program by the time they are 19.
Becoming a Welder
Want to become a welder? Many individuals can find welding programs and classes at local trade schools and vocational schools. Here students can get the instruction they need to obtain entry-level jobs in the field. Students may also choose to enroll in a local apprenticeship program with a professional welder.
Additionally, some states require that a welder be licensed in order to work.
How Long Is Welding School?
The time it takes to become a welder can vary depending on which program you choose and even by state. You can typically earn a welding certificate in about one year. Meanwhile, an associate degree can take up to two years.
Local apprenticeships may also be available in your area. These can vary in the time it takes to complete, but many individuals remain in an apprenticeship program for a few years.
What Is a Welder?
These workers fuse and bond metals together using a range of processes and techniques. What a welder does on a typical day may depend on the job site, the industry they’re working in, and how much experience they have. However, some typical job duties a welder can be responsible for are:
- Studying blueprints, drawings, and sketches for the job
- Calculating dimensions of metal pieces
- Laying out and securing metal parts
- Inspecting materials for defects
- Selecting the proper tools and methods for the current task
- Filling holes and hammering out bulges in the metal
- Maintaining tools and equipment
Conclusion
Once you meet all of your state’s training, education, and age requirements, you can apply to be a welder. Whichever path you take to start your career, always check the employer’s job requirements to ensure you’re meeting all the necessary qualifications laid out in the job description.
