by Welding is, put simply, the process of joining two metals together.
The process itself has been around in various incarnations for hundreds of years, and, though the methods have changed, the purpose itself, remains the same.
Many opportunities exist for welders, and the best way to learn how to weld is by attending a trade school.
Article Table of Contents
Things to Consider When Considering a Trade School
Welding trade schools will teach you how to work with welding equipment.
The best of these schools offer the latest welding information and techniques.
There are three things you should consider when searching for a welding school; cost, how long the program lasts, and the reputation of the school.
Cost is an easy one, how much do you have to invest in your education, and are there any options available to help mitigate the amount.
How long the program lasts, this one is important because certain times, one school offers a three-year course, but doesn’t cover anything more than another school would in an eighteen-month course.
Lastly, reputation, how accredited is the school, what’s the rate of their successful graduates?
Type of Instruction at Welding Trade Schools
The majority of your training at a welding school will be taught in a workshop.
In addition to your practical training in the workshop, you will also learn about math, physics, and blueprinting in a classroom setting.
When visiting a trade school’s campus to get an idea about their teaching style and curriculum, take some time to ask a school advisor about their program details; such as financial aid and program entry requirements.
While you are on campus, inspect the welding equipment found in the classrooms learning on outdated equipment will not serve you well.
Take Reputation Into Account
Before you enroll, you may wish to investigate the education and experience level of the instructors.
After all, an instructor that isn’t qualified, is no instructor at all. If you know any industry professionals, they may also be able to give you impressions of the different schools you look at.
One of the tasks afforded to the instructor, he or she should explain the various career paths available to professional welders in a manner that you understand.
Fostering Good Habits in Students
An education in welding requires good study habits. If you’re one of the many people who struggle with studying, there are countless resources available both via the internet and most likely via your school.
Online community boards and forums created by welding professionals and students, printable study guides, instructional videos, and so much more.
The most crucial habit you need to ensure your foster is safety.
Upon enrolling in a welding school, ensure that you read and comprehend all safety procedures and precautions.
Finding A School
Finding a school in your area is just a matter of simply searching online. When looking, keep in mind that most welding programs take three to twelve months to complete.
Many of these such programs offer financial assistance to help pay for the cost of your education.
Establish a good study habit and prepare to work hard, and lastly, keep in mind, hands-on training will help you learn this skill much faster.
Conclusion
Keep in mind the following five points when searching for a school and you’ll be on the path to success.
- Choose a school with a good reputation and quality instructors.
- Foster good study habits.
- Research and follow all guidelines for your course.
- Ensure you will be learning with modern equipment and not something 20 years old.
- Consult any professionals you may know in the industry to ask what school they would recommend.
Needs more information?
Read this How to Become a Certified Welder Guide, it will take you step-by-step on your way to becoming a welder.
Good luck!
Read the full guide: How to Become a Certified Welder
I am a Nigerian and I am very much interested in training in welding and fabrication in New Jersey. Can I possibly apply from Nigeria and be accepted?
My friend recently enrolled and started training to become a welder.
The school he chose is a good school but he said it was not what he expected.
The cost was much cheaper than another one in our area but they are dated in terms of training so he might end up needing to take another session of training down the road.
I am going to enroll in the other school in January for their spring/summer classes.
I do like that you pointed out that using the internet can help you to easily find a welding school online. My husband is interested in enrolling himself in welding programs. He said that he wanted to find a welding school that has a good reputation and near our place, so I’ll share your blog with him.