Welding schools, certification tests and careers, explained by people who weld.

If you've ever thought about a career in welding, you've come to the right place. GoWelding.org is your one-stop source for information on the best welding programs, career options, and useful articles to find success in the field. If you want to learn a trade that allows you to use your creativity for design and building purposes, welding may be for you. Our guides will teach you everything you need to know about:

• General Welding – including the four most common welding processes (Stick, MIG, TIG, and FCAW) taught in welding schools and used by professional welders.
• Welding Schools – find out what welder training entails and search our state-by-state database of welding schools and programs.
• Welder Certification – learn about each of the welding certification tests available and how to ace them.
• Welding Careers – find your niche in welding by learning about available career options, apprenticeships, how to find welding jobs, and more.

How to Choose a Welding School

Career-level welding schools and training programs can be found across the country. You may have taken welding courses in high school and want to build on your skills, or perhaps you are interested in earning a certificate or degree in welding to embark on a solid new career. Interested students will first need to consider which welding area they are interested in; these can include pipe welding, auto body welding, shipfitting, underwater welding, welding inspection, and more. Some programs may offer an emphasis in a particular welding specialty, but general welding programs are also available.

Schools offer welding programs that culminate at different levels, including professional certificates, Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees, and even Bachelor of Science degrees. Depending on the educational level you choose, your training can last anywhere from several months to several years. To accommodate busy schedules, programs are often offered on either a part-time or full-time basis, and night and weekend courses are not unusual. Students are always encouraged to choose a welding program that is staffed by Certified Welding Educators (CWEs).

Becoming a Welder in Your State

With welding programs and career opportunities available across the nation, becoming a welder in your state has never been more convenient. While many states only require a high school diploma to become a welder, the range and quality of professional certificate and undergraduate welding programs have grown over the years to accommodate all types of students. Many welders appreciate the increased employment opportunities and higher salaries that a welding certificate or degree affords them, as well as the preparation to pass the necessary certification exams.

Our guides will teach you how to choose a great welding program near you, as well as the certification process and requirements for your state.