Key Points

• A welder joins metal parts using heat or pressure to build and repair structures, machinery, and products.
• Ohio welders earn an average of $52,210 per year (BLS 2024).
• Training can take 6 months to 2 years, depending on program type and certification level.
• Common certifications include AWS (American Welding Society) and ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers).
• Job demand for welders remains strong in manufacturing, construction, and automotive industries.

What is a Welder?

A welder is a skilled tradesperson who uses heat to fuse metal parts. They read blueprints, select welding techniques, operate specialized tools, and inspect their work for precision and safety. Welding methods include MIG, TIG, arc, and gas welding, depending on the material and project type.

Where Do Welders Work?

In Ohio, welders work in:

• Manufacturing plants – fabricating machinery, tools, and industrial parts
• Construction – building bridges, pipelines, and steel frameworks
• Automotive and aerospace – repairing and manufacturing precision components
• Shipyards and rail industries – maintaining and assembling transportation structures
• Independent contracting – operating personal workshops or freelance repair services

Requirements to Become a Welder in Ohio

To qualify for welding positions in Ohio, you’ll need:

• High school diploma or GED
• Completion of a welding training program (vocational or technical)
• Industry certification from AWS or ASME
• Good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
• Basic safety credentials, including OSHA and CPR/First Aid

These requirements ensure welders meet Ohio’s industrial safety and quality standards.

How to Become a Welder in Ohio?

Becoming a welder in Ohio requires training, practical experience, and certification. Here’s a clear breakdown.

1. Meet the Basic Requirements

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Pass a background check and drug screening (if required by the program)

2. Enroll in a Welding Training Program

Join a state-approved vocational or technical school that offers hands-on welding instruction. Most programs teach:

• Welding techniques (MIG, TIG, Arc)
• Blueprint reading
• Metal preparation and cutting
• Welding safety and equipment maintenance

Training usually lasts 6 months to 2 years depending on the chosen certificate or associate degree.

Use Dreambound to find and compare welding programs across Ohio by cost, schedule, and duration.

3. Gain Practical Experience

Practice is critical. Many students join apprenticeships or union training programs to work under experienced welders. This hands-on experience builds the confidence and technical precision required for certification testing.

4. Obtain Welding Certification

Certification proves you can perform industry-standard welds safely and effectively.
In Ohio, welders can pursue credentials through AWS or ASME, depending on the career path.

How to Get a Welder Certification

Welding certification verifies that you meet national performance standards. The two primary certifying bodies are AWS and ASME. Each has specific procedures, costs, and exam timelines.

1. AWS (American Welding Society) Certification

The AWS Certified Welder (CW) credential is the most widely recognized qualification for U.S. welders.

How to earn it:

• Train at an Accredited Test Facility (ATF).
• Perform a welding test under AWS supervision using required materials and processes.
• Pass visual and bend tests verifying the quality of your weld.
• Receive a Certified Welder Card once you meet AWS standards.

AWS Certification Costs (2025) (AWS Program Price List):

• Certified Welder Application: $60
• Maintenance of Certification: $35
• Prometric Exam (Endorsements): $430–$525 per test
• Full CWI (Certified Welding Inspector) Exam Package: $2,975–$3,240

Exam Code Update (Effective August 1, 2025)
Per AWS Code Edition Guidance:

• Until July 2025: Candidates may study the 2020 D1.1 Edition.
• August–December 2025: Either 2020 or 2025 D1.1 Code may be used.
• After December 31, 2025: Only the 2025 Edition is accepted.

AWS recommends using the 2025 edition by late 2025 to prepare for 2026 testing cycles.

AWS Certification Definitions (AWS Welding Digest):

• Welder Certification: Written verification that a welder has produced welds meeting prescribed standards.
• Performance Qualification: Proof that the welder can produce welds per those standards.

Most Ohio employers require AWS certification for structural, manufacturing, or fabrication roles.

2. ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) Certification

ASME certification is essential for welders working with pressure vessels, boilers, or industrial piping systems.

Step-by-Step Process (ASME Certification Process):

Preparation

• Review ASME’s certification standards and determine which scope applies to your work.
• Establish a quality program and prepare a written quality manual.
• Partner with an Authorized Inspection Agency (AIA) if required.
• Train personnel to implement ASME quality procedures.

Application

• Create a CA Connect Account on ASME’s platform.
• Submit a signed Accreditation and Certification Agreement Form and pay required fees.
• Upload your quality manual and supporting documentation.

Assessment

• ASME evaluates your documentation and performs a Review/Survey to verify your quality program.
• The review confirms compliance with ASME standards and safety codes.

Certification

• Once approved, ASME issues your certification, valid for three years.
• You must maintain compliance with ASME’s quality assurance standards for renewal.

Estimated Timeline:
The entire ASME certification process generally takes 4–6 months, including document review, survey, and approval.