Welding is the joining of materials with or without the application of heat, filler material and/or pressure. In addition to welding, welders:
- Maintain equipment and machinery
- Inspect structures or materials to be welded
- Calculate dimensions
- Review blueprints, sketches and specifications
Skills needed to become a welder include manual dexterity, good eyesight and eye-hand coordination, and the ability to concentrate on detailed work for long periods of time. You should also be able to stoop, bend, climb and work in awkward positions.
Manufacturing, construction and service industries employ the most welders. Welders are needed to work on transportation equipment, industrial machinery and fabricated metal products, as well as bridges, highways and buildings. As current welders retire, the need for skilled welders increases. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says job prospects are good for welders trained in the latest technologies.