Although many traditional jobs types have come and gone with the increase of technology, there will still always be a need for highly skilled welders to work in a variety of different manufacturing settings. Welding has been around for hundreds of centuries and, as long as we continue to build and manufacture in society, we will continue to need qualified welders.
If you are wondering how to become a welder in Connecticut, you are in the right place. As a recognized manufacturing school in the state, Goodwin College walks you through the basics of becoming a welder below.
-
Fulfill Welding Prerequisites:
There are many things you can do to prepare yourself for becoming a welder, even before you enroll in a post-secondary welding program. One of those things is to make sure you take shop, welding courses (if available), and math and science classes in high school. All these high school courses, while not required, can provide you with a foundational knowledge of welding technology, and familiarity on how to use certain metal-shaping materials and equipment.
-
Learn Key Welding Skills:
There are many technical and personal skills that one needs to develop when considering how to become a welder. Because welders work with their hands, it’s important that they have the physical strength and manual dexterity to be able to handle machinery and materials. Furthermore, welders need to have good communication, concentration, and problem-solving skills to be able to read blueprints and quickly understand a project. These skillsets can be shaped and sharpened in the right welding school.
-
Earn Proper Welding Certification and Training:
There are many welding programs out there that will give you the tools and training necessary to become a professional welder. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many employers prefer to hire welders who have been through training or credentialing programs. Choosing the right welding program is an important feat for your career. Before getting started, consider what you are looking for in a welding school, and what you are looking to walk away with upon completion of their program.
Goodwin’s affordable Welding Technology program is a great option for those who may be under-experienced in welding, but who also want to land a job in the field fast. We offer students the unique opportunity to complete their welding certificates in a few as 8 months – shorter than many other welding schools. Goodwin’s program teaches students everything from welding safety and fabrication, to foundational welding methods, to safely navigating a welding worksite. Goodwin students have access to state-of-the art machinery and hands-on training resources, including a virtual reality welding machine and an innovative Bluco table.
The Welding Technology program at Goodwin College is designed to prepare students to obtain a job as a welder or cutter. Upon completion of our program, you will walk away fully prepared to pursue professional certification or entry-level employment.
-
Obtain a Job as a Welder:
Once you have completed the steps involved with how to become a welder, it’s time to put your skills to good use and find a job in the field. Welders can use their skills in a variety of different settings including building construction, machinery manufacturing, infrastructure projects, general manufacturing and automotive related projects. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for this unique skill set is projected to rise 6 percent over the next several years. Goodwin College’s Career Services team can offer individualized counseling to help place you at a job as a welder.
-
Continue your Welding Education:
Once you obtain a job, your focus should shift from ‘how to become a welder’ to ‘how to become a better welder.’ Like with most careers, welding education is never ending. There are always new technologies and tools out there to help you advance your skills and knowledge as a welder. In addition to the industry pros you’ll learn from at Goodwin College, there are many educational resources available to welding professionals seeking to advance their skillset and pursue greater opportunities, including the American Welding Society.
Do you still have questions about how to become a welder? Learn more about this innovative, thriving career and the steps you can take to get there from our Goodwin advisors themselves. Call (800) 889-3282 or visit us online to request more information.
Goodwin University is a nonprofit institution of higher education and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Goodwin University was founded in 1999, with the goal of serving a diverse student population with career-focused degree programs that lead to strong employment outcomes.