Four-year degrees are constantly pushed on our youth and while this might be the right path for your classmates or peers, it doesn’t mean that it has to be right for you. Trade schools for skills in HVAC, construction, or welding are truly the way of the future. Not only is attending a trade school lighter on your wallet but it provides you with all of the skills and training necessary to get a job once your degree is complete. In turn, fattening your wallet significantly!
I can actually say, first-hand, how satisfying welding can be as I took it in high school. My parents still have the table and picture frame I welded proudly displayed in their home! It was hard work, but I still remember how proud I was to bring my projects home. If you are interested in welding or are an experienced pro, consider the following as you embark on a new career or work on perfecting the skills that you already have:
Keeping Up to Date:
We live in a world where technology is constantly being improved on. While it’s exciting to always have the latest and greatest, it’s important to know how to use new tools in your field even if you don’t yet have one for yourself. For example, do you know what Welding Plasma Cutters are? Not only are plasma cutters efficient, as you don’t have to wait for them to preheat, but they also will help to give you smooth, accurate cuts with every use.
Keeping up to date in your field isn’t just about knowing about new technology but it also includes always knowing the proper safety precautions to take, which can continue to change too. It’s easy to see how welding could be dangerous so always take note of any memos on safety. While small changes to a process may seem insignificant, they are in place to help prevent injuries and keep you safe on the job.
Having the Right Gear for Your Safety:
Speaking of being safe on the job, the gear that you wear when welding is paramount to keeping you from getting hurt. Consider the following when purchasing welding equipment.
Always inspect your welding mask, goggles, gloves, and jackets carefully before putting them on. Any tear, no matter how small, can get caught in machinery and leave your skin open to the extreme heat that you will be working with. Be sure to also take a look at your goggles and mask before you begin working. Any scratches or smudges will hinder you, as accuracy is so important in welding.
Do Some Job Hunting:
If you already have a job in your field, it never hurts to shop around for a new position for more competitive pay or the opportunity to travel for your work. If you are interested in potentially choosing welding for a career, look at job listings to help inspire you because the pay, benefits, and opportunities will encourage you to go for it! Many high schools now not only offer shop classes to introduce you to construction but courses in welding too. As some positions only require you to have a high school diploma or GED, it would be good to have experience beforehand so you will know if you like it enough to turn it into your career.
Working in a trade field should never be frowned upon, regardless of gender must I say, but only encouraged because it will open the doors to you for a long career. You don’t need a four-year degree to get paid well and do something meaningful and if you love to create and work with your hands, a career in welding could be just right for you.
