How I got into welding was to find a really good welding school, showed up early everyday, worked my ass off, asked tons of questions and just showed the instructors that I was super passionate about welding. When I passed my CWB and AWS tests, the head instructor(owner of the school) gave me a number to call. I called, the guy asked if I wanted to weld, I said yes, he said go to the union hall, pay your dues and show up on Monday, and that was that. Ive been a welder ever since. Where things get interesting though is that I was 38 at the time and coming from a background in software development(got laid off from the company I was at for years and realized that I actually hated software development). Was definitely a huge change but was the best thing Ive ever done. I love what I do now. I weld every day. Its really amazing lol. Great video, as usual.
Omg! This is me. I was laid off last week. I’m 42 and looking for a career change from, get this......IT support. For the last 20 years. This must be a sign,!!!!!
Like most 25 year olds from my generation I don’t get excited about much but starting my welding journey got me pumped! I really appreciate the content it’s been a huge reference for my decision to pursue a Career in welding.
Agreed!! I’m also 25. I always lived my life when I was younger stressing cause I didn’t know what I wanted to be. But once I started welding I literally fell in love. I appreciate the ability to love my job because all I hear from people is how much they hate their jobs. I’m so happy and grateful to have found something I truly love
Hey everyone, thanks for taking the time to watch the video. I hope you were able to take something good away from it. Links to all of these resources are available in the description below the video. Check them out. If you have any additional questions, post them here in the comments and if I can help out I will. Work Hard and Stay Humble 🤘🔥
Automation engineer here, is it a good idea to get into welding right now as a job with the push for more and more robotic welding (especially MIG)? Have you noticed any impact on your students or number or them finding a job after education? I know lots of countries are also struggling to recruit enough welders and it is a reason why they're pushing automation so much, I dont know how those two factors correlate.
Yyunko its a great time to get into welding. Right now there’s over 400,000 job openings for welders alone. In order to program a robot to weld, you have to know how to weld as you have to program all the variables. It’s a lot easier for a welder to learn to program a robot than it is to train an operator to weld. In my program alone we have a 95% placement rate for employment, robots aren’t taking jobs at the moment, they’re creating them.
Graduated 1971,was then in the USMC ( 1972 -I976) I completed ENMU Welding course in 1978. An soon after I was hired as a powerhouse operator and never welded professionally. So now at 66 and retired I am considering going back to community college for training in GMAW, SMAW, FCAW. These instructional videos are priceless.
David Mcgee that should fall under picking a good school. You’re right though. I should have mentioned that. Especially since I went through the ironworkers program.
@@GodslilRedneck23 agreed it still falls under a school but it's more than just school. Not trying to discredit anyone for going to a school only, I just strongly feel an Apprenticeship can give you even more because its showing you how the real world applies the knowledge you gain as you learn. Thanks for the video and I plan to use some of the info you've provided to further my education as well.
David Mcgee I agree man. When I started with my local I only got called out because of skills learned in a welding school (aluminum MIG/TIG) that the hall didn’t teach. The more you know, the more valuable you’ll be. Apprenticeships are a great option as well.
Incredible that you are giving out great free career and life advice for the young guys getting starting. Makes me wish I was a few decades younger. Jason, you have more than filled Bob's shoes in his absence. I hope to see you continue with the videos when he returns. I've been impressed with all your work.
Kevin Lee thanks Kevin, I am truly humbled by your statement. Bob will be back soon, I can’t wait I could use a break, 3 videos a week is tough on a ginger 😂
I'm starting welding school in 2 months and I just turned 48. I know that I'm REALLY late jumping into welding but I'm hoping that I'll be able to make some good money while my body is still healthy.
Hi Guys, I'm just getting into welding and I really just started a week ago and watching your videos has really helped me a Great deal. In the beginning I "thought" welding was just melting steel over a gap between two pieces of steel like a piece of tape, but I quickly learned that that's not welding at all! Thanks for sharing and as always keep building👍
Building with Todd thanks man, the more I learn about welding the more I realize I don’t know anything about it. That’s what makes it so fun. It’s never ending and you’re constantly learning.
I'm in welding school right now, and I couldn't agree more about seeking financial aid. There's good money out there for the taking! Thanks for all the tips man!
@@mobchris937 I can't remember if he mentioned it in the video, but definitely check out the Mike Rowe trade scholarship. Also, many states have scholarship programs that you automatically qualify for just by being a resident, so google for wherever you live. I live in Colorado, and they have a stipend that pays for a significant amount of your tuition, you just have to activate it.
I totally agree with David Mcgee. The Apprenticeship Program from your local United Association is 2nd to none. Earn as you learn, benefits (including medical and pensions plus a ton more) and you learn from top notch Instructors. I highly recommend looking into that to anyone starting out.
A lot of very good information contained in this video. If you are looking at getting into welding or any other trade then watch this video numerous times and take notes because there are a lot of gold nuggets in it.
I'm a senior next year at my high school in Arkansas, this welding program we have here really brings out the best of us, and the worst too. Most people are really good at stick or mig welding here, but most kids here learn tig by year 2, and i'm already one of the best at it from year 1. Hopefully ill be a lot better and learn more positions next year :)
Thanks, Jason Becker. I've had a couple incidents but whats not to say we can't learn from them and not make them again? The worst was not tightening the nut on the grinder hard enough.
@@leftonpluto4300 I haven’t done anything welding related since and i started my first job doing road work. About to get my class A CDL so I can start hauling and get that dollar raise lol
Thanks for your video.I'm kind of old now but I went to a local trade school for welding and it cost almost nothing and after going I knew why.They only covered arc welding and taught almost nothing.Needless to say after I got out I bought my own welder and learned on my own and have done very well throughout my working life.When I was 15 I got a job in an auto wrecking yard and spent the days cutting up cars with oxy/acet. among other things.That was good experience.
my opinion.... go to school. i have worked in a lot of shops before i got my welding diploma, and most european companies only let the young boys do all the basic stuff but they dont learn how to weld correctly. if you go to a metal school instead, or like in the netherlands is also possible (but only works when you have a good boss) is to go 1 day per week to school, 4 days at work. but i did a fulltime metal-school, it was something special for youth with problems lol.. but the teacher learned me everything i need to know, thanks to him i can weld tig, mig/mag, gas-welding and elektrodes. and work with almost every machine a small metal factory has ..............i learned all of this in just 1,5 year time, before that i had worked for 10 years already doing all kinds of trades and still getting nowhere............... its not like the old days where you can follow a craftsman and learn a trade, these modern times when you work for a company its only about the money and nobody has time to teach new ones the trade..... that is why my advise is, go to school.
Great info. I went to school for collision repair and refinishing but I also weld on the side. Got everything from tombstone Lincoln acdc machine to 350p and Lincoln tig welder. Hood time is everything and having a good mentor is key. The diploma is "just a piece of paper" but it gets you in the door and then learn every day and dont get in the habit of the mindset of once you know it all that's all you'll ever know. Learn from everyone the guys who are great and also learn from the guys doing it wrong. Honestly I've learned more from the guys doing it wrong than the guys doing it correct procedure every time. Gotta know how to do it wrong to know how to do it right.
@@GodslilRedneck23 The books taught me enough to get started. I bought a government issued welding manual on CD on eBay. There's a plethora of information on that CD.
I would recommend going to school if at all possible, the overall experience you get from a school is so much more varied than what you would get being an apprentice. You can practice or atleast try all the different processes, positions, fillers and parent metals etc, while at work you might literally only type of joint for months (or years if you are pipe welding). Studying on the job is great and you learn to work on that job a lot quicker than you would in school, but that would almost only limit you to that kind of job. School is the way to go if welding is your dream job.
Great channel and you are a great inspiration for young and old, a day not learning is a day wasted, knowledge is power. Keep it up, as always very informative. Great narrative Jason
I learned on the job repairing heavy equipment, welding on production lines, fabrication shops, oilfield, structural ironwork, and alot of others and that gave me a hell of an education and at work things happened that do not happen in a clean controlled school shop. Along the way i found out repair welding is the best fit for me personally although right now im stuck n a structural fabrication shop. Years ago i realized i wanted to do other things as well as weld. Welding the same welds over and over is extremely boring plus thats not wht real skill is. U can only learn that on the job usually when things go wrong and u have to fix it yourself. Lets say u go to school and graduate and get a job and the first day they send u out to thy yard to start fixing a piece of equipment thats half rust and the other half is made of mud. U crawl underneath or inside of it where u can barely move your cutting torch or see at all and its wet and freezing and after u cut or gouge u have to weld across a jagged uneven one inch gap. Did they teach u how to calmly and professionally get the job done at school or even where to start? Didnt think so. Remember welding is not a real trade by itself, it something that is a part of alot of other trades. Thats having true skill.
Been a welder for thirty years..and yes go to a trade school like the 798 pipeline welders school And get certified in all aspects of welding as the more you can do the more valueable you will be to youre conpany which equals more hours ..more money ..more work.
Appreciate the video. Very good information. My opinion only, is if you want to be a welder, start welding. Period. I understand the need for the schools and certifications and what not. But if you can't learn how to weld by yourself and youtube, no amount of $$$ thrown into a school will make you a good welder period. 100+ years ago, maybe even longer, there was no such things as welding schools, or hardly any other schools for trades for that matter and people made it just fine. Get in there, burn some rod and teach your self how to weld. If you desire to advance and become certified, then you can do that, but for alot of just daily welding jobs, no certification required. My opinion only, so don't throw the tomatoes too hard. LOL. Great video again.
The school I've went to was okay if you researched on your own but once I was stuck on a 4g open root GTAW- the tig guy wasn't in until next week- then there was a wire guy and a stick guy. It was really challenging but I got my education thru knowledgeable good people like you, Bob, Jody and weld tube. My instructors were always doing their own side jobs while class was in session but I hear you on people got to make money.
Join the NAVY! Best welders I've ever met were U. S. Navy trained! I myself got my start as an U.S. Army Combat Engineer. This guy is right, when he says schools are a business and there business is their own pockets. The business of the military is war and if you are not the best trained at your job, we will lose that war! Military training is the best training in the world and an Honorable Discharge is way better than some trade school certificate! For welding, GO NAVY! Good luck!
@@Kal-El207 to learn the trade? Imho, yeah. Personally I hate unions, but some guys love it! The choice, for the time being, is still yours! Whats most important is you burn metal! You'll figure out whats best for you!
If you have experience as tig only but struggle to find work for mig/mag processes but have the knowledge of how it works take up a trainee role learn and get experienced in them fields to widen your experience and skills
As a code welder there's many tests I'd alleys pay for my local voc. Let them know what I'm doing. They have nice work areas after I set my both. It cheap buy yourself a machine. Voc school is cheaper then the material
What would you recommend for somebody in their 40s with a day job that wants to learn welding? My community college offers classes but they're 5 days per week.
This is tough because we don't know where you are or what your situation is. If there aren't any other schools with evening or weekend classes in the area I'm wondering if you might be able to find an informal group that meets on the weekends or someone who is retired but looking to make a few extra dollars or trade a case of beer for teaching you the ropes. You might ask the people where you would buy your welding equipment and supplies if they have any suggestions or know anyone who would be able to help you out. The other thing is being in your 40's are you looking to start a new career or just do this because you always wanted to and it will probably just be a hobby? If it's just for fun than maybe a full-time school might be overkill anyhow, but if you are thinking about starting a new career than how attached are you to that day job? Maybe find something to pay the bills that will let you work in the evenings or on the weekend and live on ramen noodles and tap water for a while. It's all a lot harder if you if you have people depending on you financially. The main thing is you really don't want to try and teach yourself because welding is so easy to get wrong and bad habits are a pain to break. Good luck, brother.
You could always buy a welder, and watch some RUclips videos. There’s some pretty good teachers on RUclips tbh. Watch some videos and put in some good amount of Hood time
@@jeepwk6.5L Always makes me nervous, but if he's going to go the teach yourself from the Internet route he should rent the equipment if he can instead of make a big investment in the wrong hardware - besides his own mask and gloves. That's like sharing a jock strap. Some things just gotta be your own.
Matt Soper there are some pretty affordable welders out there tbh. You don’t necessarily need top of the line or a pipe liner to learn. I used to have a little suitcase stick/tig combo I paid like $400 for. Gloves and a hood are cheap. I’ve never rented though so idk the prices on that. Could save some cash.
i was kicked out of porter and chester for attendance because i was a few mins late. So if the class starts at 7:15 and if you got there at 7;16 he would close the door and that was a point on your attendance. i was a month away from graduation, and all of a sudden, i got pulled into the hall, and they told me i was done because of attendance. so i got beat 28k. Fuck porter and chester. i am now really interested in welding and trying to find the best affordable school.
Great video. Get the best welding manuals and memorize them. Keep them handy for reference. Trust but verify. Your instructor might be passing along his bad habits. There might be a better way. Keep an open mind and do your OWN research.
This is great information, but you did not address a large segment of people out here that look to a few of the top welding channels like yours. I am an old guy (68) that just retired. I spent my career in the electrical trade and doing electrical engineering. I just never got around to learning to weld. Now is the time! I am not looking for a career in welding and I will never take a certification test. I just want to do home projects and use some metal in my woodworking projects. I need guidance on how to begin. It would be great if someone like you developed a program for guys like me, starting with stick, then mig and then maybe tig. I mean starting from the very beginning and going step-by-step through the processes. I read so many great reviews on the harbor freight multi process unlimited 200 that I went out and bought it. I’m sure it will be fine for me as there will never be a day when I want to weld for hours on end. I am all ready to plug it in (240 volts, of course). Some guidance for newbies like me would be awesome. I would be happy to pay for a reasonably priced program. I did mention that I am retired, didn’t I?
Dwight Hapeman hey Dwight, check out our Facebook page. We interact with many home hobbyists with no formal training all the time. You can learn at an entry level by getting the equipment, watching our videos, and participating in the group. We do a lot of helpmewelddotcom segments that help the hobbyists out. Aside from that, many community colleges and trade schools offer weekend classes for hobbyists.
Incredibly informational video to stumble across. My family and I just relocated to Fl following my wife’s active duty career in the AF. I got out a few years ago and have been struggling to decide what to do with my life since while being a stay at home dad and welding seems to be making since. We are outside Pensacola and I have found a couple technical colleges that offer welding programs and a couple pipe welding schools in Mobile, AL. I’m really not looking to spend more time away from home these days, so the pipe welding although sounds monetarily appealing, isn’t realistic. Mobile rigging somewhat local would probably be my route. So training/school wise, what does a guy suggest?
I currently weld in a cargo trailer shop. Mostly aluminum (spool gun). I've been there just over 2 years. I'm to a point where I feel getting some school time would be extremely beneficial. I live in Independence, OR. Are there any schools/programs you guys are familiar with in my area, that would be worth a close look?
Going to school is in my opinion the only way to go.Not only will it set you up for the future with more employment opportunities. It will alow you to actually u destiny the necessary fundamentals needed to understand exactly what is happening to the materials you are working with, the filler metals, how distortion works and how to counter it, and so much more. Its not only useful in the ways I've just mentioned, it will also give a young person entering the trade a basic u derstanding of how to be safe while doing what you're doing, and why. Faking it til you make it has worked in the past, however with the modernization of the trade, it won't fly for long. You may land a job in the short term while companies are screaming for people, but ince things slow down, the person with no educational background will be the first to go. Education is also very useful and will serve you well if you ever want to branch out into becoming a CWI or other NDT areas. The more you know when entering the trade, the better it will serve you long term. Schooling may be expensive to begin with, but it's short term pain for long-term gain. Remember that. You may even get lucky with a company that is willing to Apprentice you.
I can’t speak on behalf of the USA, but here in the UK we’re sick if people trying to just waltz in to the industry. In the UK the only real way to get into the industry is to serve an apprenticeship once you leave high school at 16. You serve a 4 year apprenticeship as either a Welder, Plater, Pipe fitter, Sheet metal worker, etc. And you stick to your specific trade. When serving your apprenticeship you learn the basics all the way up to complex stuff on the job training, whilst also attending a technical college learning the theory side of the job. Once you come out your apprenticeship then you decide where to go with your career. For example at 16 I started my apprenticeship as a Welder learning how to Mig and Stick weld. When i turned 20 and finished my apprenticeship I left the company thanked them dearly and put myself through my 6GR in virtually every process. Got all my safety passports i.e. CCNSG and CSCS. Nowadays you have people coming into the industry not knowing a butt from a fillet and all they have done is been put through a 6 week course paid by the government and have no real experience. (these people are known as chancers and dilutes) They take jobs for very low pay rates and drive the whole industries pay scheme down and now experienced, highly skilled tradesmen are expected to work for peanuts too. Enough is enough.
Well said! I'd rather quit this trade than work for peanuts.! There are welder/fabricator jobs being advertised for a minimum wage. There is no way I'd work as a Welder fumes, dust, use of agle grinders sanders etc for a minimum wage.
I've been going to school for my AS in welding i did almost all my welding classes and then when to do all my general education classes got finish with them and now I'm back and noticed I forgot a lot since you are a teacher do you think I should of done my general education first and then my main classes instead the other way around??
I'm lucky I live in Colorado so I get PPCC Pikes Peak Community College so at least from what I heard all the grads from the welding program have gotten jobs with the air force building planes and missiles and they teach everything
Question since every weld channel has avoided this question. If I have never welded before and want to start and buy a welder should I buy just a single stick welder or mig welder or if I can afford it should I just go get a multiprocessor.
Some things to consider. Do you have the electricity to run the machine. Do you have space to learn. How much money can you spend for the machine. MIG or stick is good to learn (you will want to learn both). MIG will be easier, but it cost more to set up because of the shielding gas. Some type of workbench will help out. Also a source for used metal so that you don't have to buy new metal. In this area scrap steel can go for $ 0.03 a pound. Get a used welding book, watch the videos on RUclips, Harbor Freight has auto darkening helmets (used one to become certified GTAW welding at Lincoln Electric). Hope this helps and never stop learning.
flatlandwelder I have the ability to run a 50 amp 240v circuit. As an electrician I understand the different requirements for each welder. But wasn’t sure if for a beginner if it would be better to learn on stick and then buy a mig machine or what would be best. I’ve heard that mig is easiest and know the associated cost with all consumables. I recently received a reply telling me although harder learning to tig first would be best as it is the most versatile as long as I get an ac/dc to where I can do aluminum as well. I do know I can do aluminum with a spool gun but so many decisions as to what to buy.
@@usplusfive5968 Start out with a small 110v welder that will do MIG and Flux core. Learn on it and then buy something bigger and better. With the small welder you can take it to other places and do small jobs without trouble. If you start and then determine you don't want to go further, your not in it for much money. Better to learn how to do it then spend thousands on equipment . Main thing is practice, practice practice and learn the basic. RUclips is good for that. Best to you.
Going self employed as a Stick Welder for $10 an hour. No job wants to hire me (I am NCCER certified on all positions, all processes, Aluminum) and it's alright. Stick Welding at $10 an hour isn't bad.
This was a great video I have a few questions . What school would you recommend for welding . I live in Huntsville al and my middle son is interested in welding . There is a school here JF drake state and there is a community college in key west that teaches welding and marine tech which my son is interested in. Also what are the advantage between going to school and joining the military to learn welding? Thanks again for the video
Get yaself a little stick machine there cheap an easy to buy. Get a spot with someone who has experience and practice. Keep practicing if your a beginner just practice running straight consistent beads. Main thing is practice practice practice
I was about to say this. No replacement for the education you get from behind a welding hood. With a little advise to get you in the ballpark, of course. That's what makes channels like this one so great.
RedBearBro, re 3:28 - you have to know the subject (welding in this context) in order to check if the instructor in question knows it too. But if you do know the subject, then you don't need to be instructed\taught (unless you are more after talking rather then welding). If you do not know the subject, then you cannot check if your instructor is good at the topic. By the way, how's uncle Bob doing?
Good point. However, you do not need to know the subject to evaluate motivation. That being said, ultimately satisfied working graduates is who you want to talk to.
How to be a welder. 1) Mix formal training and hands on. 2) Make lots of mistakes and learn from them. 3) pretend you know everything and learn to blame the other guy 4) drink cheap beer 5) spend you entire paycheck at the gentleman's club. 6) be ready to pull up anchor over the smallest jobsite issue. Practice the following and the bad attitude and temper will come naturally.
Just turned 20 today man I’m starting to get a sense of urgency now I’m ready to leave my job at chicken express no hate on it but bro I need a job that brings some money in
id say its quite easy to get a welder job there than in my country... in here u need at least 1 to 2 years of experience,must be a graduate of any welding related subject or ojt and the experience ive mention is different so its quite hard and one truth the payrate sucks 20$ perday since its mostly a monthly pay..1 reason most welders here who didnt go to a school but with experience and assest..always go other countries to be a welder..
Justin Beery depends on the type of wire you’re running. Different wires need different amps to run efficiently. Send me some more info and I’ll be glad to help out.
I went to welding school in Romania but no one is hiring they all want 2-3 years of experience on a specific type of welding if you dont know that exact process they dont want to hear about it and hang up. Getting into welding and schools is a first step but its pointless if you cant find a company or person to take you in as a beginner and let you work at least 6 months in production otherwise you might get stuck. I dont know how it is in america but where i live i stand no chance i cant find a company to let me start from helper and learn more as i go they just wont, private sectors suck.
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How I got into welding was to find a really good welding school, showed up early everyday, worked my ass off, asked tons of questions and just showed the instructors that I was super passionate about welding. When I passed my CWB and AWS tests, the head instructor(owner of the school) gave me a number to call. I called, the guy asked if I wanted to weld, I said yes, he said go to the union hall, pay your dues and show up on Monday, and that was that. Ive been a welder ever since. Where things get interesting though is that I was 38 at the time and coming from a background in software development(got laid off from the company I was at for years and realized that I actually hated software development). Was definitely a huge change but was the best thing Ive ever done. I love what I do now. I weld every day. Its really amazing lol. Great video, as usual.
So question...when you join the union are you paid to work, training only and the job placement, etc.? How does it work. Im in Atlanta.
@@stylesbylaunig7350 my question exactly
Omg! This is me. I was laid off last week. I’m 42 and looking for a career change from, get this......IT support. For the last 20 years. This must be a sign,!!!!!
Ken Adams what’s the fee for welding course at trade school ? 🙄
@@sameepthapa95 depends where you go. there are a few options where i live. they range from 10-20K
Like most 25 year olds from my generation I don’t get excited about much but starting my welding journey got me pumped! I really appreciate the content it’s been a huge reference for my decision to pursue a Career in welding.
I’m 21 and thinking about getting into it
How’s it going so far if you don’t mind me asking
Agreed!! I’m also 25. I always lived my life when I was younger stressing cause I didn’t know what I wanted to be. But once I started welding I literally fell in love. I appreciate the ability to love my job because all I hear from people is how much they hate their jobs. I’m so happy and grateful to have found something I truly love
@@aliennetwork08same but I don't know where to start
@@Pro1938ftc3ch google it , training centers are near you , it will cost , or apply for apprenticeship
Hey everyone, thanks for taking the time to watch the video. I hope you were able to take something good away from it. Links to all of these resources are available in the description below the video. Check them out. If you have any additional questions, post them here in the comments and if I can help out I will. Work Hard and Stay Humble 🤘🔥
I like it. work hard, stay humble. Sounds almost christian-like. :)
Automation engineer here, is it a good idea to get into welding right now as a job with the push for more and more robotic welding (especially MIG)?
Have you noticed any impact on your students or number or them finding a job after education?
I know lots of countries are also struggling to recruit enough welders and it is a reason why they're pushing automation so much, I dont know how those two factors correlate.
Yyunko its a great time to get into welding. Right now there’s over 400,000 job openings for welders alone. In order to program a robot to weld, you have to know how to weld as you have to program all the variables. It’s a lot easier for a welder to learn to program a robot than it is to train an operator to weld. In my program alone we have a 95% placement rate for employment, robots aren’t taking jobs at the moment, they’re creating them.
The problem with schools is that many are taught by shop teachers and the welding program is terrible.
@@GodslilRedneck23 thanks for your answer! Great to hear from someone who's in the field!
Graduated 1971,was then in the USMC ( 1972 -I976) I completed ENMU Welding course in 1978. An soon after I was hired as a powerhouse operator and never welded professionally. So now at 66 and retired I am considering going back to community college for training in GMAW, SMAW, FCAW. These instructional videos are priceless.
3rd option is an Apprenticeship. Book work and on the job training with qualified journeymen.
David Mcgee that should fall under picking a good school. You’re right though. I should have mentioned that. Especially since I went through the ironworkers program.
@@GodslilRedneck23 agreed it still falls under a school but it's more than just school. Not trying to discredit anyone for going to a school only, I just strongly feel an Apprenticeship can give you even more because its showing you how the real world applies the knowledge you gain as you learn. Thanks for the video and I plan to use some of the info you've provided to further my education as well.
David Mcgee I agree man. When I started with my local I only got called out because of skills learned in a welding school (aluminum MIG/TIG) that the hall didn’t teach. The more you know, the more valuable you’ll be. Apprenticeships are a great option as well.
Where do you look for an apprenticeship?
@@jonesy2245 look up trades union halls in your area. Boilermakers, pipefitters, machinists. Or find employer's that offer apprenticeship programs.
Incredible that you are giving out great free career and life advice for the young guys getting starting. Makes me wish I was a few decades younger.
Jason, you have more than filled Bob's shoes in his absence. I hope to see you continue with the videos when he returns. I've been impressed with all your work.
Kevin Lee thanks Kevin, I am truly humbled by your statement. Bob will be back soon, I can’t wait I could use a break, 3 videos a week is tough on a ginger 😂
I'm starting welding school in 2 months and I just turned 48. I know that I'm REALLY late jumping into welding but I'm hoping that I'll be able to make some good money while my body is still healthy.
Hi Guys, I'm just getting into welding and I really just started a week ago and watching your videos has really helped me a Great deal.
In the beginning I "thought" welding was just melting steel over a gap between two pieces of steel like a piece of tape, but I quickly learned that that's not welding at all!
Thanks for sharing and as always keep building👍
Building with Todd thanks man, the more I learn about welding the more I realize I don’t know anything about it. That’s what makes it so fun. It’s never ending and you’re constantly learning.
I'm in welding school right now, and I couldn't agree more about seeking financial aid. There's good money out there for the taking! Thanks for all the tips man!
Any sites you'd recommend for scholarships?
@@mobchris937 I can't remember if he mentioned it in the video, but definitely check out the Mike Rowe trade scholarship. Also, many states have scholarship programs that you automatically qualify for just by being a resident, so google for wherever you live. I live in Colorado, and they have a stipend that pays for a significant amount of your tuition, you just have to activate it.
What’s the fee for welding course at trade school ?
A Federal Pell grant is all you need.
wish i had this info 6 months ago when i first started school. so much gold in this video
I totally agree with David Mcgee. The Apprenticeship Program from your local United Association is 2nd to none. Earn as you learn, benefits (including medical and pensions plus a ton more) and you learn from top notch Instructors. I highly recommend looking into that to anyone starting out.
It’s good if you can get into one. Lot of times if you don’t know someone or not related to someone you’re not getting in
A lot of very good information contained in this video. If you are looking at getting into welding or any other trade then watch this video numerous times and take notes because there are a lot of gold nuggets in it.
Mark Fryer thanks man. We appreciate the support.
As a retiree, your advice t o the younger men is great. There ain’t no easy way to become skilled!
I'm a senior next year at my high school in Arkansas, this welding program we have here really brings out the best of us, and the worst too. Most people are really good at stick or mig welding here, but most kids here learn tig by year 2, and i'm already one of the best at it from year 1. Hopefully ill be a lot better and learn more positions next year :)
AverageJunior, the weirdo that streams. Keep at it man. The biggest difference is attitude, stay positive and put in the work.
Thanks, Jason Becker.
I've had a couple incidents but whats not to say we can't learn from them and not make them again? The worst was not tightening the nut on the grinder hard enough.
how’s it going
@@leftonpluto4300 I haven’t done anything welding related since and i started my first job doing road work. About to get my class A CDL so I can start hauling and get that dollar raise lol
Thanks for your video.I'm kind of old now but I went to a local trade school for welding and it cost almost nothing and after going I knew why.They only covered arc welding and taught almost nothing.Needless to say after I got out I bought my own welder and learned on my own and have done very well throughout my working life.When I was 15 I got a job in an auto wrecking yard and spent the days cutting up cars with oxy/acet. among other things.That was good experience.
my opinion.... go to school. i have worked in a lot of shops before i got my welding diploma, and most european companies only let the young boys do all the basic stuff but they dont learn how to weld correctly. if you go to a metal school instead, or like in the netherlands is also possible (but only works when you have a good boss) is to go 1 day per week to school, 4 days at work. but i did a fulltime metal-school, it was something special for youth with problems lol.. but the teacher learned me everything i need to know, thanks to him i can weld tig, mig/mag, gas-welding and elektrodes. and work with almost every machine a small metal factory has ..............i learned all of this in just 1,5 year time, before that i had worked for 10 years already doing all kinds of trades and still getting nowhere............... its not like the old days where you can follow a craftsman and learn a trade, these modern times when you work for a company its only about the money and nobody has time to teach new ones the trade..... that is why my advise is, go to school.
Im taking welding classes from my union. Joining a union is another way to get a great career welding.
Great info. I went to school for collision repair and refinishing but I also weld on the side. Got everything from tombstone Lincoln acdc machine to 350p and Lincoln tig welder. Hood time is everything and having a good mentor is key. The diploma is "just a piece of paper" but it gets you in the door and then learn every day and dont get in the habit of the mindset of once you know it all that's all you'll ever know. Learn from everyone the guys who are great and also learn from the guys doing it wrong. Honestly I've learned more from the guys doing it wrong than the guys doing it correct procedure every time. Gotta know how to do it wrong to know how to do it right.
I just got an AWS scolarship. It is gonna help.
Garrett Francis congratulations man.
I love these vids. So much more useful than the books I learned from. The books just can't show the proper speed or the angle of the dangle.
Ben Lee I feel ya man. I learn way better by hands on and visual. But there’s a lot of good info in books, you just have to find it.
You got that right Jason..... thanks for all you and the gang do. Give my hats off to Camera Guy....and edit guy....they do a bang up job.... Paul
@@GodslilRedneck23 The books taught me enough to get started. I bought a government issued welding manual on CD on eBay. There's a plethora of information on that CD.
I would recommend going to school if at all possible, the overall experience you get from a school is so much more varied than what you would get being an apprentice. You can practice or atleast try all the different processes, positions, fillers and parent metals etc, while at work you might literally only type of joint for months (or years if you are pipe welding). Studying on the job is great and you learn to work on that job a lot quicker than you would in school, but that would almost only limit you to that kind of job. School is the way to go if welding is your dream job.
Great channel and you are a great inspiration for young and old, a day not learning is a day wasted, knowledge is power. Keep it up, as always very informative. Great narrative Jason
Frankie Dontas thank you sir.
I learned on the job repairing heavy equipment, welding on production lines, fabrication shops, oilfield, structural ironwork, and alot of others and that gave me a hell of an education and at work things happened that do not happen in a clean controlled school shop. Along the way i found out repair welding is the best fit for me personally although right now im stuck n a structural fabrication shop. Years ago i realized i wanted to do other things as well as weld. Welding the same welds over and over is extremely boring plus thats not wht real skill is. U can only learn that on the job usually when things go wrong and u have to fix it yourself. Lets say u go to school and graduate and get a job and the first day they send u out to thy yard to start fixing a piece of equipment thats half rust and the other half is made of mud. U crawl underneath or inside of it where u can barely move your cutting torch or see at all and its wet and freezing and after u cut or gouge u have to weld across a jagged uneven one inch gap. Did they teach u how to calmly and professionally get the job done at school or even where to start? Didnt think so. Remember welding is not a real trade by itself, it something that is a part of alot of other trades. Thats having true skill.
Great advice especially about the pitfalls with student loans.
Awesome video seriously. I’m 22 and just now starting to look into welding . never done it before but I’m ready to give a shot just need to start
@@aliennetwork08 hows it going?
Shop talk should be a segment this was very helpful. I'm on the right steps but I've never thought about getting scholarships
Rafael Sanchez do it man, there’s plenty available. Check the description panel, I put in a few links of some good scholarships.
Rafael Sanchez we’ll keep that in mind. Thanks for the feedback.
@@GodslilRedneck23 thank you, God bless you and your love ones
Been a welder for thirty years..and yes go to a trade school like the 798 pipeline welders school
And get certified in all aspects of welding as the more you can do the more valueable you will be to youre conpany which equals more hours ..more
money ..more work.
Great info for anyone looking to learn more about welding. Thanks for taking the time to help everybody out 👍👍
Chris Wojnarski thanks man. I hope people are able to take something positive away from the video.
My school doesnt have a pipe course but the instructor will teach pipe once you can weld plate properly.
Matthew Williams that’s what I did with my students 👍 if they put in the effort, I would too.
@@GodslilRedneck23 thats what my instructor said and he has had some good welders graduate from his program at Texas State Technical College.
Appreciate the video. Very good information. My opinion only, is if you want to be a welder, start welding. Period. I understand the need for the schools and certifications and what not. But if you can't learn how to weld by yourself and youtube, no amount of $$$ thrown into a school will make you a good welder period. 100+ years ago, maybe even longer, there was no such things as welding schools, or hardly any other schools for trades for that matter and people made it just fine. Get in there, burn some rod and teach your self how to weld. If you desire to advance and become certified, then you can do that, but for alot of just daily welding jobs, no certification required. My opinion only, so don't throw the tomatoes too hard. LOL. Great video again.
Doing a terrific job. .. love the videos and knowledge . Can always learn more
Donny B thanks man, we’ve got more coming b
The school I've went to was okay if you researched on your own but once I was stuck on a 4g open root GTAW- the tig guy wasn't in until next week- then there was a wire guy and a stick guy. It was really challenging but I got my education thru knowledgeable good people like you, Bob, Jody and weld tube. My instructors were always doing their own side jobs while class was in session but I hear you on people got to make money.
Good for the young ones to know.
Hi, Jason thank you for creating this video. This is very helpful to beginner like me again thank you..
Tom Butsik thanks for watching. Let us know if we can help out.
Join the NAVY! Best welders I've ever met were U. S. Navy trained! I myself got my start as an U.S. Army Combat Engineer.
This guy is right, when he says schools are a business and there business is their own pockets. The business of the military is war and if you are not the best trained at your job, we will lose that war!
Military training is the best training in the world and an Honorable Discharge is way better than some trade school certificate!
For welding, GO NAVY!
Good luck!
Is Union okay?
@@Kal-El207 to learn the trade? Imho, yeah. Personally I hate unions, but some guys love it! The choice, for the time being, is still yours!
Whats most important is you burn metal! You'll figure out whats best for you!
@@patrickfarley8036 Thanks man.
This was pretty exactly the info I was looking for
If you have experience as tig only but struggle to find work for mig/mag processes but have the knowledge of how it works take up a trainee role learn and get experienced in them fields to widen your experience and skills
As a code welder there's many tests I'd alleys pay for my local voc. Let them know what I'm doing. They have nice work areas after I set my both. It cheap buy yourself a machine. Voc school is cheaper then the material
Excellent advice! Thanks for posting!
ZMXL thanks man. We appreciate the support.
What would you recommend for somebody in their 40s with a day job that wants to learn welding? My community college offers classes but they're 5 days per week.
Kyle May do they offer evening programs?
This is tough because we don't know where you are or what your situation is. If there aren't any other schools with evening or weekend classes in the area I'm wondering if you might be able to find an informal group that meets on the weekends or someone who is retired but looking to make a few extra dollars or trade a case of beer for teaching you the ropes. You might ask the people where you would buy your welding equipment and supplies if they have any suggestions or know anyone who would be able to help you out.
The other thing is being in your 40's are you looking to start a new career or just do this because you always wanted to and it will probably just be a hobby? If it's just for fun than maybe a full-time school might be overkill anyhow, but if you are thinking about starting a new career than how attached are you to that day job? Maybe find something to pay the bills that will let you work in the evenings or on the weekend and live on ramen noodles and tap water for a while. It's all a lot harder if you if you have people depending on you financially. The main thing is you really don't want to try and teach yourself because welding is so easy to get wrong and bad habits are a pain to break. Good luck, brother.
You could always buy a welder, and watch some RUclips videos. There’s some pretty good teachers on RUclips tbh. Watch some videos and put in some good amount of Hood time
@@jeepwk6.5L Always makes me nervous, but if he's going to go the teach yourself from the Internet route he should rent the equipment if he can instead of make a big investment in the wrong hardware - besides his own mask and gloves. That's like sharing a jock strap. Some things just gotta be your own.
Matt Soper there are some pretty affordable welders out there tbh. You don’t necessarily need top of the line or a pipe liner to learn. I used to have a little suitcase stick/tig combo I paid like $400 for. Gloves and a hood are cheap. I’ve never rented though so idk the prices on that. Could save some cash.
I wish I would’ve seen this before I went to school
It's never too late to learn
Im doing a trade school In high school for welding and just realised that my teacher might be putting us way deeper in than what we are supposed to be
Scott Gilbert what do you mean
i was kicked out of porter and chester for attendance because i was a few mins late. So if the class starts at 7:15 and if you got there at 7;16 he would close the door and that was a point on your attendance. i was a month away from graduation, and all of a sudden, i got pulled into the hall, and they told me i was done because of attendance. so i got beat 28k. Fuck porter and chester. i am now really interested in welding and trying to find the best affordable school.
Great video. Get the best welding manuals and memorize them. Keep them handy for reference. Trust but verify. Your instructor might be passing along his bad habits. There might be a better way. Keep an open mind and do your OWN research.
I go to Hobart for combined structural and pipe
Ayy im about to start classes there how was it, and where r u at now?
This is great information, but you did not address a large segment of people out here that look to a few of the top welding channels like yours.
I am an old guy (68) that just retired. I spent my career in the electrical trade and doing electrical engineering. I just never got around to learning to weld. Now is the time! I am not looking for a career in welding and I will never take a certification test. I just want to do home projects and use some metal in my woodworking projects. I need guidance on how to begin. It would be great if someone like you developed a program for guys like me, starting with stick, then mig and then maybe tig. I mean starting from the very beginning and going step-by-step through the processes.
I read so many great reviews on the harbor freight multi process unlimited 200 that I went out and bought it. I’m sure it will be fine for me as there will never be a day when I want to weld for hours on end. I am all ready to plug it in (240 volts, of course). Some guidance for newbies like me would be awesome. I would be happy to pay for a reasonably priced program. I did mention that I am retired, didn’t I?
Dwight Hapeman hey Dwight, check out our Facebook page. We interact with many home hobbyists with no formal training all the time. You can learn at an entry level by getting the equipment, watching our videos, and participating in the group. We do a lot of helpmewelddotcom segments that help the hobbyists out. Aside from that, many community colleges and trade schools offer weekend classes for hobbyists.
try switching polarity electrode + for solid wire if it is switched the wire will look real ropey and not wet in at the toes of the weld
I want to create my own business with my everlast equipment. I've got an everlast tig, mig, stick welders and a plasma cutter too.
Good advise here not only for welding in general 💯💪🏻
Advice*
Incredibly informational video to stumble across. My family and I just relocated to Fl following my wife’s active duty career in the AF. I got out a few years ago and have been struggling to decide what to do with my life since while being a stay at home dad and welding seems to be making since. We are outside Pensacola and I have found a couple technical colleges that offer welding programs and a couple pipe welding schools in Mobile, AL. I’m really not looking to spend more time away from home these days, so the pipe welding although sounds monetarily appealing, isn’t realistic. Mobile rigging somewhat local would probably be my route. So training/school wise, what does a guy suggest?
I currently weld in a cargo trailer shop. Mostly aluminum (spool gun). I've been there just over 2 years. I'm to a point where I feel getting some school time would be extremely beneficial. I live in Independence, OR. Are there any schools/programs you guys are familiar with in my area, that would be worth a close look?
Got an associates degree in welding technology for less than 5k! Way better than the 25k I spent on business school
Also I did get scholarships so my tuition was almost free
Did you land a job yet?
Going to school is in my opinion the only way to go.Not only will it set you up for the future with more employment opportunities. It will alow you to actually u destiny the necessary fundamentals needed to understand exactly what is happening to the materials you are working with, the filler metals, how distortion works and how to counter it, and so much more.
Its not only useful in the ways I've just mentioned, it will also give a young person entering the trade a basic u derstanding of how to be safe while doing what you're doing, and why.
Faking it til you make it has worked in the past, however with the modernization of the trade, it won't fly for long.
You may land a job in the short term while companies are screaming for people, but ince things slow down, the person with no educational background will be the first to go.
Education is also very useful and will serve you well if you ever want to branch out into becoming a CWI or other NDT areas.
The more you know when entering the trade, the better it will serve you long term.
Schooling may be expensive to begin with, but it's short term pain for long-term gain. Remember that.
You may even get lucky with a company that is willing to Apprentice you.
Excellent recommendations. Thank you.
I can’t speak on behalf of the USA, but here in the UK we’re sick if people trying to just waltz in to the industry.
In the UK the only real way to get into the industry is to serve an apprenticeship once you leave high school at 16. You serve a 4 year apprenticeship as either a Welder, Plater, Pipe fitter, Sheet metal worker, etc. And you stick to your specific trade.
When serving your apprenticeship you learn the basics all the way up to complex stuff on the job training, whilst also attending a technical college learning the theory side of the job.
Once you come out your apprenticeship then you decide where to go with your career. For example at 16 I started my apprenticeship as a Welder learning how to Mig and Stick weld.
When i turned 20 and finished my apprenticeship I left the company thanked them dearly and put myself through my 6GR in virtually every process. Got all my safety passports i.e. CCNSG and CSCS.
Nowadays you have people coming into the industry not knowing a butt from a fillet and all they have done is been put through a 6 week course paid by the government and have no real experience. (these people are known as chancers and dilutes)
They take jobs for very low pay rates and drive the whole industries pay scheme down and now experienced, highly skilled tradesmen are expected to work for peanuts too.
Enough is enough.
Well said! I'd rather quit this trade than work for peanuts.!
There are welder/fabricator jobs being advertised for a minimum wage. There is no way I'd work as a Welder fumes, dust, use of agle grinders sanders etc for a minimum wage.
Great video once again 🤙🏻💯 y’all killing it with all these great videos
Daniel Olivares thanks man, we appreciate you watching.
This is some solid information, thanks!
I've been going to school for my AS in welding i did almost all my welding classes and then when to do all my general education classes got finish with them and now I'm back and noticed I forgot a lot since you are a teacher do you think I should of done my general education first and then my main classes instead the other way around??
your video helped me out a lot i’ve been thinking about welding but I am lost.
I'm lucky I live in Colorado so I get PPCC Pikes Peak Community College so at least from what I heard all the grads from the welding program have gotten jobs with the air force building planes and missiles and they teach everything
Question since every weld channel has avoided this question. If I have never welded before and want to start and buy a welder should I buy just a single stick welder or mig welder or if I can afford it should I just go get a multiprocessor.
Some things to consider. Do you have the electricity to run the machine. Do you have space to learn. How much money can you spend for the machine. MIG or stick is good to learn (you will want to learn both). MIG will be easier, but it cost more to set up because of the shielding gas. Some type of workbench will help out. Also a source for used metal so that you don't have to buy new metal. In this area scrap steel can go for $ 0.03 a pound. Get a used welding book, watch the videos on RUclips, Harbor Freight has auto darkening helmets (used one to become certified GTAW welding at Lincoln Electric). Hope this helps and never stop learning.
flatlandwelder I have the ability to run a 50 amp 240v circuit. As an electrician I understand the different requirements for each welder. But wasn’t sure if for a beginner if it would be better to learn on stick and then buy a mig machine or what would be best. I’ve heard that mig is easiest and know the associated cost with all consumables. I recently received a reply telling me although harder learning to tig first would be best as it is the most versatile as long as I get an ac/dc to where I can do aluminum as well. I do know I can do aluminum with a spool gun but so many decisions as to what to buy.
@@usplusfive5968 Start out with a small 110v welder that will do MIG and Flux core. Learn on it and then buy something bigger and better. With the small welder you can take it to other places and do small jobs without trouble. If you start and then determine you don't want to go further, your not in it for much money. Better to learn how to do it then spend thousands on equipment . Main thing is practice, practice practice and learn the basic. RUclips is good for that. Best to you.
You forgot to mention one of the best learning resources available to young and old folks wanting to get into the trade. I'm talking about Weld.com.
Lee Barnhart I like the way you think. Thanks for the support.
Going self employed as a Stick Welder for $10 an hour. No job wants to hire me (I am NCCER certified on all positions, all processes, Aluminum) and it's alright. Stick Welding at $10 an hour isn't bad.
Where can it be possible to buy that quickie to cut the bevel? Thank you
This was a great video I have a few questions . What school would you recommend for welding . I live in Huntsville al and my middle son is interested in welding . There is a school here JF drake state and there is a community college in key west that teaches welding and marine tech which my son is interested in. Also what are the advantage between going to school and joining the military to learn welding? Thanks again for the video
I am an aerospace welder..
(16 years ) best decicion
The community college near me has certification and a 1 or 2 year degree program. What’s better ? And how r they different?
Thank you for the video. Do I have a chance to attend your courses even if I am international student?
Thanks for all the pointers. But not all of us up and comers are that young :)
any tips on how to get scrap to train?
Please excuse the stupid question but what would the cut look like if you didn't preheat the metal?
CADDED it just doesn’t cut as clean and it’s slower.
@@GodslilRedneck23 👍
Going to welding school!!
Get yaself a little stick machine there cheap an easy to buy. Get a spot with someone who has experience and practice. Keep practicing if your a beginner just practice running straight consistent beads. Main thing is practice practice practice
I was about to say this. No replacement for the education you get from behind a welding hood. With a little advise to get you in the ballpark, of course. That's what makes channels like this one so great.
Thanks I’m an upcoming welder in 7 month program
Banking and finance before the army. Enlisted and now out and learning how to become a welder 😂
Is it essential to take welding before underwater welding?
I’m 21 and thinking about getting into welding
If you had to recommend a school, which one?
I’m a sophomore in high school right now and thinking about tech schools in Texas any recommendations?
Great video you the best love your video good to learn from .
RedBearBro, re 3:28 - you have to know the subject (welding in this context) in order to check if the instructor in question knows it too. But if you do know the subject, then you don't need to be instructed\taught (unless you are more after talking rather then welding). If you do not know the subject, then you cannot check if your instructor is good at the topic.
By the way, how's uncle Bob doing?
Good point. However, you do not need to know the subject to evaluate motivation. That being said, ultimately satisfied working graduates is who you want to talk to.
+6061 on working graduates!
School is right CBC welding College
How to be a welder.
1) Mix formal training and hands on.
2) Make lots of mistakes and learn from them.
3) pretend you know everything and learn to blame the other guy
4) drink cheap beer
5) spend you entire paycheck at the gentleman's club.
6) be ready to pull up anchor over the smallest jobsite issue.
Practice the following and the bad attitude and temper will come naturally.
Just turned 20 today man I’m starting to get a sense of urgency now I’m ready to leave my job at chicken express no hate on it but bro I need a job that brings some money in
I love weld.com
Logan Trail me too 😂
Thanks
Solid advice!
TEB561 thanks man, I hope it helps some people out.
id say its quite easy to get a welder job there than in my country...
in here u need at least 1 to 2 years of experience,must be a graduate of any welding related subject or ojt and the experience ive mention is different so its quite hard and one truth the payrate sucks 20$ perday since its mostly a monthly pay..1 reason most welders here who didnt go to a school but with experience and assest..always go other countries to be a welder..
Do you suggest an actual private welding school or a community type college that offers different welding certificate programs?
@gardenstatePR im looking more for a fast track straight into the industry, which is why i figured an actual welding school would be best.
great video! thank you guys!
Can you do part of it online?
Hey what you run for self shielded flux core for a 2g and a 3g half inch weld test?
Justin Beery depends on the type of wire you’re running. Different wires need different amps to run efficiently. Send me some more info and I’ll be glad to help out.
Did they teach you to oxy cut with clear glasses?
I'm up for your videos
What would you say is a good cost for a program? I was looking at this one welding program but it's 17k
Am a student wishing to apply for a
course in welding in Canada need help on schools too go too
Also what school do you teach at . My son likes your video
Where's Bob?
@RedBeard What school do you teach at and how can one apply to it?
I went to welding school in Romania but no one is hiring they all want 2-3 years of experience on a specific type of welding if you dont know that exact process they dont want to hear about it and hang up.
Getting into welding and schools is a first step but its pointless if you cant find a company or person to take you in as a beginner and let you work at least 6 months in production otherwise you might get stuck.
I dont know how it is in america but where i live i stand no chance i cant find a company to let me start from helper and learn more as i go they just wont, private sectors suck.
What is the process to be a certified welding educator?
Goose Flat Waterfowlers you have to pass part A and B of the CWI Exam.