Key Points

• What is a Welder? A welder is a skilled professional who uses specialized equipment to cut, shape, and join metal parts or structures.
• How to become a Welder in Illinois? To become a welder in Illinois, you must be 18 and have a high school diploma. The primary path is to complete a welding certificate program (4-12 months) and earn industry certifications from the American Welding Society (AWS).
• Length of training for Welder: Training can range from a 4-month certificate for specific processes to a 2-year associate's degree in welding technology.
• Average Welder salary in Illinois: The median salary for welders in Illinois is $49,730 per year ($23.91 per hour), according to May 2024 data from CareerOneStop.
• Number of employment of Welders in Illinois: Approximately 17,280 welders are employed in the state of Illinois (BLS, May 2023).

What is a Welder?

Welders are responsible for performing various welding techniques such as arc welding, gas welding, and resistance welding. They read and interpret blueprints, sketches, or specifications to determine the layout and dimensions of the metal components. Welders also inspect, clean, and prepare surfaces before welding, ensuring the quality and strength of the joints. Additionally, they may operate welding machines, monitor the welding process, and make adjustments as needed.

Where Does a Welder Work?

Welders can work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, construction, automotive, and aerospace. They may find employment in welding shops, fabrication companies, shipyards, or construction sites. Welders often work in indoor environments, but they may also need to work outdoors, depending on the nature of the project.

How to Become a Welder in Illinois?

To become a welder in Illinois, one must first complete a welding education program, such as a vocational school or community college course, to gain the necessary skills and knowledge. Next, the individual must obtain the required certifications, such as the American Welding Society (AWS) certification, to demonstrate their proficiency. Finally, the certified welder can search for job opportunities in various industries, earning a competitive salary commensurate with their expertise.

Requirements to Become a Welder in Illinois

To become a welder in Illinois, you typically need to meet certain education and legal requirements:

1. Education: While a high school diploma or equivalent is often sufficient for entry-level positions, completing a formal welding program can enhance your skills and job prospects. These programs are offered by vocational schools, community colleges, and trade schools. They provide hands-on training in welding techniques, safety procedures, blueprint reading, and metallurgy.

2. Legal Requirements: In Illinois, welders must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driver's license or state identification card. They must also pass a welder certification test, which evaluates their skills and knowledge in specific welding processes. Welders working on construction sites may also need to undergo additional certifications or training, such as OSHA safety training.

Where Can I Find Welder Classes in Illinois?

If you're looking for welding classes in Illinois, Dreambound can help you find the right program for your needs. Dreambound is the largest platform for students to find and compare vocational training programs, including welding courses. They offer a comprehensive directory of welding schools and programs in Illinois, allowing you to easily search and compare options.

To find welding classes near you in Illinois, visit Dreambound's page. You'll have access to detailed information about each program, including course descriptions, tuition costs, and contact details. Dreambound's user-friendly interface makes it convenient to explore your options and make an informed decision about your welding education.

How long does it take to become a Welder?

Becoming a certified welder involves several steps with variable timelines based on the chosen training program and personal dedication. Most start with vocational training, which can range from a few weeks to several months and covers welding fundamentals and safety. Following this, gaining hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level jobs is crucial, with the duration depending on individual progress. Finally, to achieve certification, welders must pass a test that demonstrates proficiency in various techniques, such as stick, MIG, or TIG welding. Preparation and testing for certification typically take a few weeks to a few months.

Exploring a Career in Welder Outside Illinois

If you're eager to start a career as a Welder but are situated in a different state, don't be discouraged. Your opportunity to work as a Welder might be found in Hawaii, Maryland, North Carolina, Texas, or West Virginia. If you don't live near these areas, Dreambound offers a straightforward solution to scout and compare Welding classes by searching with your zip code. No matter where you live, with dedication and the right resources, carving out a career in trade, construction, and industry is within your reach.

How do I get my Welder certification?

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a welder, obtaining a welder certification is a crucial step towards achieving your goal. Welder certification not only validates your skills and knowledge in the field but also opens up numerous job opportunities and increases your earning potential.

To obtain a welder certification, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Education and Training: Start by enrolling in a welding program at a vocational school, community college, or trade school. These programs provide hands-on training and theoretical knowledge about welding techniques, safety protocols, and equipment operation. In Illinois, you can find several institutions that offer welding programs, such as Illinois Welding School and Illinois Valley Community College.

2. Gain Experience: After completing your education, it's essential to gain practical experience in welding. Look for apprenticeship programs or entry-level positions at welding companies or construction firms. This will allow you to work under the guidance of experienced welders, honing your skills and gaining real-world experience.

3. Prepare for Certification: Once you have acquired the necessary skills and experience, it's time to start preparing for your welder certification exam. The American Welding Society (AWS) offers various welding certifications, including Certified Welder (CW), Certified Welding Inspector (CWI), and Certified Welding Educator (CWE). Each certification has its own eligibility requirements and examination processes. Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements for the certification you are interested in pursuing.

4. Pass the Certification Exam: The next step is to successfully pass your welder certification exam. The exam will assess your theoretical knowledge and practical skills in welding. It may include written tests, hands-on welding demonstrations, and visual inspections of your welds. Be sure to study and practice thoroughly before the exam to increase your chances of success.

5. Maintain Certification: Once you have obtained your welder certification, it is important to maintain it by keeping up with industry standards and regulations. This may involve completing continuing education courses, attending workshops or seminars, and staying updated on the latest welding techniques and technologies.

6. Specialize: As you gain more experience and expertise in welding, consider specializing in a specific area of welding. Specializations such as pipe welding, structural welding, or underwater welding can further enhance your career prospects and earning potential.

By following these steps, you can obtain your welder certification and embark on a rewarding career in welding.

How do I get a job as a Welder?

After obtaining your welder certification, the next step is to secure a job in the field. Here are some steps to help you get a job as a welder:

1. Create a Professional Resume: Craft a well-written resume that highlights your welding skills, education, certifications, and relevant work experience. Emphasize any specialized training or certifications you have obtained.

2. Build a Portfolio: Create a portfolio of your best welding work, including photographs or samples of completed projects. This will showcase your skills to potential employers and give them a visual representation of your capabilities.

3. Network: Attend industry events, job fairs, and trade shows to connect with professionals in the welding field. Networking can help you discover job opportunities, gain insights into the industry, and make valuable connections.

4. Search for Job Openings: Utilize online job boards, company websites, and industry-specific job portals to search for welding job openings. Don't limit yourself to just one source; explore multiple avenues to increase your chances of finding suitable job opportunities.

5. Apply for Positions: Submit your resume and portfolio to potential employers who are hiring welders. Tailor your application to each job opening, highlighting the specific skills and experience that match the requirements of the position.

6. Prepare for Interviews: If your application is successful, you may be invited for an interview. Prepare for the interview by researching the company, practicing common interview questions, and demonstrating your knowledge and passion for welding.

7. Demonstrate Your Skills: During the interview process, be prepared to demonstrate your welding skills. Some employers may require you to complete a welding test or provide a practical demonstration of your abilities. Showcasing your skills and confidence in your craft can leave a lasting impression on potential employers.

8. Consider Apprenticeships: If you are struggling to find a job as a welder, consider applying for apprenticeship programs. Apprenticeships provide valuable on-the-job training and can help you gain the necessary experience to secure a full-time welding position.

9. Continuously Improve: Once you have landed a job as a welder, it's important to continue honing your skills and knowledge. Stay updated on the latest welding techniques, equipment, and safety protocols. Seek out additional training opportunities or certifications to expand your expertise and increase your value as a professional welder.

Remember, finding a job as a welder may require persistence and patience. Keep refining your skills, networking, and applying to job openings, and you will increase your chances of finding the right opportunity.