Although the rate for hiring welders has slowed down somewhat, the demand is still high in certain states and cities. Moreover, in cities such as Cleveland, the demand for skilled, certified welding personnel is still above average. In this trade, it pays to be more than an average welder. It is very important to improve your chances of wages and position by learning all you can and keeping your training up-to-date.
Certified Welders and Welding
For those who wish to make a career in welding, certification is necessary. The American Welding Society (AWS) is the source of certification in the United States. It defines not only who qualifies as a certified welder but also whether a shop has complete compliance with all welding-related functions. After a third party assessment, a welding fabricator shop can become certified. It must, of course, demonstrate it is capable of producing proper weldments. It accomplishes this by demonstrating its personnel, knowledge, equipment and contingent of certified welders are all involved in producing products that conform to set standards and specifications.
Certifications
Welding is a craft and a trade. It requires time spent in trade schools in Cleveland or elsewhere mastering the basics. In order to achieve certification from the AWS, the welder must work within an accredited testing facility. Upon demonstrating the necessary skills, at work and to a testing supervisor, the welder undergoes an official test. If the individual successfully completes the weld for the inspector, he or she may gain certification, becoming a certified welder (CW). The test requires no written examination. It demands the display at regular intervals of knowledge of certain skills to an inspector.
Skilled CWs are in demand. They do, however, need to continually update and expand their learning base. Lately, technology has produced changes within the industry. Certified welding now encompasses more than basic welding skills. A fabrication shop now utilizes complex devices and equipment to accomplish welding tasks. Computer numerical control (CNC) systems now handle an increasing number of welding and other fabrication options. If a welder, even a certified welder, wishes to establish a firm foothold in today’s fabrication industry, it is very important that he or she completely comprehend the role and operation of mechanization, automation and computerization of the welding and fabrication process.
Certified Welding – The Future
Fabrication and welding shops require the skills of talented welders. CWs who work in such environments must not rest on the laurels of passing their initial certification. They must continually strive to learn more about their trade and the latest methods, techniques and technology. Only by doing so can they earn an active role in a certified welding shop in such demanding American cities as Cleveland.
