Articles & Podcast Episodes

Pipeline Welding Certifications: Essential Qualifications for Aspiring Welders

To work in pipeline welding, you need certifications in Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW). These certifications apply to materials like carbon steel, stainless steel, and alloy pipes. Always obtain certification from recognized bodies to comply with industry standards. To achieve certification, candidates typically undergo … Read more

Colleges Offering Welding Certificate Programs: Explore Top Classes and Technology

Houston Community College offers Structural Welding certificate programs. Pikes Peak State College provides welding certificates. St. Philip’s College, Hocking College, and College of DuPage also have welding technology programs. Bay College focuses on different types of welding. Explore these colleges for hands-on experience in welding. Some colleges emphasize hands-on training, allowing learners to practice in … Read more

Community Colleges Offering Comprehensive Welding Certificates and Programs

Community colleges that offer welding certificates include MCC, GRCC, and STLCC. Their programs feature Gas Metal Arc Welding, Flux Cored Arc Welding, and Pipe Welding. Students gain hands-on experience, receive certified training, and earn valuable certifications, which improve their employment opportunities in the welding technology field. Courses often include arc welding, MIG welding, and TIG … Read more

Do I Need a Welding Certification? Explore Its Career Benefits and Requirements

You don’t need a welding certification to become an apprentice welder. However, to advance, you need a journeyman certificate. Achieving this requires four years of apprenticeship under a certified welder or three years of experience plus a welding diploma from an accredited program. In many industries, including construction and manufacturing, a certification is often a … Read more

Welding Certification Card: What It Looks Like, Key Details, and Types Explained

A welding certification card measures 2”x3.5” for easy storage. It shows details like the AWS Certified Welder program, specific processes, metal types, thicknesses, and positions. The card confirms a welder’s qualifications after passing bend tests, ensuring compliance with essential guidelines for structural steel connections. Key details on a welding certification card ensure that employers can … Read more

Filler Metal F No in Welding Certification: Key Designations Explained

An F-number is a classification for filler metals, which include electrodes and bare wire. It helps streamline welding procedure specifications (WPS) and welder performance criteria. F-numbers group filler metals by their operational characteristics, ensuring welders select the right materials for effective welding. For instance, F No. 1 includes low-carbon steel filler metals, ideal for general-purpose … Read more

Welding Certifications: What is a Good Certification for Mechanics and Their Benefits?

The AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) is an excellent certification for mechanics in welding. It validates skills, supports career advancement, and ensures adherence to ethical standards. This certification improves job prospects and industry recognition, making it a top choice for those in the field. Additionally, the Structural Welding Code provides guidelines for welding practices in … Read more

Welding Certification for Newbies: A Complete Guide to Beginner Options and Benefits

For beginners, the best welding certification is in Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), or stick welding. SMAW is easy to learn and is often the first topic in welding schools and trade programs. This certification is widely available, making it an excellent choice for newcomers in the welding industry. These credentials provide critical benefits. They … Read more

Welding License vs. Certificate: What’s Better for Your Career and Qualifications?

A welding certificate is generally more valuable than a welding license. It shows your skills and knowledge as a qualified welder. Certified welders usually earn higher wages and have better job stability. Welding training programs focus on practical knowledge, enhancing your qualifications and improving your job prospects in the welding industry. A welding license is … Read more