The American Welding Society’s Professional Welding Certifications

Opportunities for welders are plentiful. Numerous industries require hard-working, reliable and experienced welders, providing ample job openings for interested candidates. Many find that successful welding careers in Umatilla County, OR begin with a solid education and ongoing training.

How to become a welder

The minimum level of education required to start work as a welder is a high school diploma or equivalent. However, most companies won’t hire welders that have no experience. To start your welding career on the right foot, look into programs available at local technical schools, vocational schools and community colleges. Earning a Welding Certificate of Achievement, an associate of science degree in welding or a bachelor of science degree in welding engineering goes a long way to differentiate you from other applicants.

While these programs lay the critical foundation for your career, you should consider some of the welding certifications in Umatilla County, OR available through the American Welding Society (AWS). As your career advances, pursuing these continuing education opportunities allows you to receive promotions and pay increases.

Some states require professional welders to obtain licensing or certification from the AWS. While other states, such as Oregon, do not require welders to receive special licensing or certification, further education in the field makes you a valuable applicant to potential employers.

Depending on the industry you’ll work in, you might need specialized training, licenses and/or certifications. For example, those who want to go into the oil and gas industry should look into the American Petroleum Institute’s welder certification.

Professional certifications from the AWS

Founded over a century ago, the American Welding Society is a worldwide nonprofit organization dedicated to the craft and science of welding. Over 70,000 members belong to the AWS to demonstrate their ongoing dedication to their chosen profession. These individuals pursue welding certifications in Umatilla County, OR from the AWS to advance their careers.

The AWS offers many certifications, including:

• Certified Welder
• Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
• Certified Welding Educator (CWE)
• Certified Resistance Welding Technician
• Certified Radiographic Interpreter
• Certified Welding Supervisor
• Certified Welding Sales Representative
• Certified Welding Engineer
• Certified Welder Program
• Certified Robotic Arc Welding (CRAW)

Depending on the direction you want to take with your professional life, you might consider pursuing one or more AWS certifications. The most important certification to obtain is the certified welder designation. Upon passing the certification test, you can carry your credentials with you between employers and from state to state. You’re also added to an online database that potential employers use to find qualified candidates.

As a premier choice for metal fabrication, we understand why many young people look into welding jobs in Umatilla County, OR. As a welder, you must exercise creative thinking to solve multifaceted problems. The work demands your body as well as mind.

A career as a welder is not only fulfilling, it can also be lucrative. As of 2018, welders earned an average salary of $44,360 annually. Businesses like NW Metal Fabricators Inc. always need well-educated welders to join the team. If you’re pursuing a career in welding, contact us today. Job openings fill quickly, so don’t hesitate to reach out now to learn more about these opportunities.

Categorised in: Welding Careers, Welding Certifications

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