You might be coming up on the tail end of your high school career. Now, you should investigate various careers so that you can figure out what you want to do after you graduate. Going to a university isn’t for everyone. Trade schools and apprenticeship programs offer valuable skills and knowledge on multiple trade jobs. If you were thinking about becoming a professional pipe welder, keep reading for more information on how you can enter that line of work.
What Is a Pipe Welder?
A pipe welder is someone who permanently joins metal pipes together through various techniques. This professional may also assemble and install metal pipes to a structure using essential pipe welding tools. Along with the physical labor, pipe welders also need to be able to read diagrams and blueprints to determine the placement of the pipes.
What Skills Do Pipe Welders Need?
The general skills you need to become successful in this line of work are technical proficiency, problem-solving, communication, and customer service savviness. To properly handle welding tools and equipment, you must have technical skills. Welders use problem solving to find and fix problems in the system, and they use communication skills to create reports of their work activities. Lastly, you want to give customers the best experience possible. Therefore, you need customer service skills.
Other Details About Pipe Welders
Pipe welders typically work outdoors. In some instances, they work under extreme weather conditions. A usual pay rate for pipe welders is about $21.89 an hour or upward of $50,000 a year. The career is expected to grow by three percent between 2018 and 2028—creating 14,500 jobs!
How Do You Become a Pipe Welder?
This trade job requires a high school diploma or a GED, along with completing a 3-5 year apprenticeship program with a labor union. If you want to get slightly higher pay, you can achieve your certification in pipe welding through the American Welding Society (AWS), although it is not required. You must ensure you gain experience within the field before becoming a professional yourself.
Have you given thought to what you want to do after high school? If you’re leaning towards going to a trade school, consider becoming a professional pipe welder. If you join this line of work, prepare to gain valuable skills and experience.