Welders do more than join, cut, and repair pieces of metal. They can be viewed as key contributors to building modern society. Welding plays an important role in developing infrastructure facilities and elements, building homes and workplaces, and creating the machines we use for business and recreation. Without skilled welders, everything from indoor plumbing to cars and public transportation would not be possible.
There are many facts about welding that make it an alluring career. These facts are worth diving into, because they further demonstrate how welding is integrated into our society, and why this integration will continue to be strong in the future.
Why Pursue a Career in Welding
Welders can feel a unique sense of pride about the impact of their work, because welding is an essential part of building and manufacturing. While welders can opt to associate themselves with companies, they can also choose to work independently and select their own projects, giving them the freedom to choose the work they want to do.
Individuals who are interested in welding can develop skills and technical knowledge through a skilled trade training program. This is generally a quicker, more flexible, and more affordable option than pursuing a four-year degree at a university.
Once in the field, welders can be exposed to a broad range of projects involving different industries, including oil and gas, construction, manufacturing, and more. Welding is a field in global demand, so those who choose this route can potentially travel and take on exciting work all over the world.
4 Welding Facts
The potential benefits of becoming a welder are enticing and can make the trade a worthwhile pursuit. Other facts about welding demonstrate its importance and impact on the world at large.
1. Welding Offers Diverse Career Opportunities
A welding career offers more variety than other trades. Some of the various industries in which welders can ply their trade include motorsports fabrication, jewelry, plumbing, aerospace, and shipbuilding. This diversity can allow individuals to pursue projects that intrigue them and align with their personal interests.
2. Welders Are Important to the Economy
Industries that help drive economic growth, such as manufacturing, depend on welders to maintain and improve their operational functionality and for product development. This may entail everything from the building of factory equipment to the development of commercial products. The trade’s global market valuation demonstrates its economic impact: In 2022, the global welding market was valued at $23.75 billion, according to Fortune Business Insights. This number is projected to grow to over $34.18 billion by 2030.
3. More Welders Are Needed
There will be around 360,000 welding professionals needed by 2027, according to recent data gathered by the American Welding Society (AWS). The factors driving this growth include increased job demand coupled with the retirement of existing welders and professionals leaving the industry. There is also a need for more women in the trade, as AWS notes women currently make up only 5% of the industry.
4. Welding Is Experiencing a Tech Boom
Welding is actively embracing technological innovation, and it’s having a positive impact on the industry. Concepts like augmented reality, where computer-generated imagery is overlaid on top of real-world objects, can improve fabrication quality and the efficiency of welding projects. This can ultimately lead to quicker project turnaround times and better quality results.
Develop the Skills for Career in Welding
These facts about welding show a vital industry that’s flush with a wide variety of career opportunities. If you are looking to enter a skilled trade that can offer variety, stability, and the potential to call your own shots, a career in welding can potentially check all these boxes.
The Fortis Welding Technology training programs can prepare you to pursue this field with confidence. Our program focuses on allowing you to develop a strong understanding of the art, science, and technology of welding, all while helping you hone the skills to stand out in the field.
Fortis offers welding programs at campuses in Georgia, Ohio, Texas, and Alabama. All provide the education and training to enter the field as an industrial welder, welding apprentice, or check welder.
Learn more about Fortis welding programs today.
Recommended Readings
5 Types of Welding Jobs
How to Become a Welder
Certified Welding Inspector: Career Overview
