Do you want to break into the trades as a welding specialist? If this is your path, it is important to understand the different welding techniques that you will use on the job. From shield metal arc welding and gas metal arc welding to flux-cored arc welding and gas tungsten arc welding. Understanding these welding techniques is a good start to your educational process.
How Can I Learn to Weld?
But you might be asking yourself, “how can I learn these welding techniques?” You have two options.
Option #1: Apprenticeship
The first option is to start working as an apprentice, allowing a licensed welder to guide you through the process of learning welding. As an apprentice, you will get on-the-job training to develop the skills you need to perform fundamental welding techniques. As an apprentice, you will rely on the company and your direct supervisor to teach you about welding techniques and safety protocols.
Option #2: Formal Education + Apprenticeship
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A more succinct way to learn welding is by attending The Refrigeration School (RSI) Welding Specialist program. As a welding student, you will receive a well-rounded education and learn the many welding techniques that you will use on the job. You will have an instructor to guide you through the curriculum, and hands-on training to put that welding theory to the test. Plus, during formal education, you get to use the same welding techniques and equipment that you will use as a professional welder. Once you have a complete education in welding, you will be much more successful as an apprentice.
Do I Need to Complete a Welding Program to Be a Welder?
In Arizona, you must have 4 years of hands-on work experience and pass a Trade exam to legally work as a licensed welder. One of those years can be substituted by completing The Refrigeration School (RSI) Welding Specialist program. Attending RSI gives you a quicker and more complete path to becoming a licensed welder.
How Long Are Most Welding Programs?
Did you know that you can complete a Welding program in as little as 7 months, attending full-time? Many employers are looking for certified welders that have formal welding training. Why? The main reason is that the employer will spend less resources on training you in basic welding techniques. You will come to your first job with a well-rounded knowledge and skillset to be a welding specialist. Plus, you will already understand safety protocols and have the welding gear you need. Employers know that RSI graduates are ready to start working and have the knowledge and skills to start working on day one.
What Will I Learn During a Welding Program?
You will receive hands-on training in core welding processes including shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), flux-cored arc welding (FCAW), and gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW). Instruction is provided in fundamental welding procedures, such as how to prepare arc welding equipment, cut metal using thermal torch techniques, and prevent weld distortion. This Welding Specialist program also teaches welding safety best practices and basic metallurgy.
Want To Learn More?
That path to welding certification starts by enrolling in RSI’s Welding Specialist program. We offer hands-on training with classroom lectures to prepare you for entry-level job opportunities in structural, alloy, and pipeline welding. To learn more, contact us.
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