Welding Secrets Revealed
Arc, MIG, TIG and Stick Welding; but what does that actually mean? These are all methods of welding, techniques that you will use during your journey to becoming a welder.
Did you know that an Apprenticeship is the best route to help you get your foot in the door? Well you do now and better still; we’re here to help you.
So what does Welding involve?
Welders work in a wide variety of industries, they are often known as welder fabricators. They cut, shape and join materials to make products and components as well as carrying out repair and maintenance of equipment and machinery.
Types of Industries Welders can work within
Welding is such a broad career so you could be based within pretty much any industry, to name a few:
Agriculture
- Construction
- Shipbuilding
- Engineering
- Transport
- Power
- Automotive
- Aerospace
- Offshore oil and gas
What does a typical day in welding Apprenticeships involve?
Your day to day responsibilities as a welding apprentice will usually involve:
- You will select, lay and position materials to be cut or joined. To do this you’ll be required to pay close attention to engineering drawings, templates and specifications
- You’ll use the appropriate methods of welding to produce sections or make repairs
- You’ll inspect and test cuts, joins and tolerances using callipers, micrometers and various other precision measuring instruments
- You’ll also operate mechanised welding equipment
- Ensure the workplace is kept tidy to avoid potential hazards
- Wear protective clothing including head-shield, overalls, apron and gloves at all times
- If required ensure you wear additional specialist safety equipment such as a harness when working at heights or a breathing apparatus when working underwater Progression Routes In larger companies employing teams of welders, you could gain promotion to foreman/woman and supervisor is possible or even to fabrication workshop manager. Additionally, with experience, you could progress to inspection, quality control and non-destructive testing.
