The need for welders will continue into the 21st century. Tomorrow's welder must be highly skilled and knowledgeable in a variety of welding processes to meet the challenges of advanced technology and new materials. Welders will be expected to produce high-quality welds the first time. The welder needs to have knowledge to communicate well with the public. According to the American Welding Society, there will be an annual shortage of qualified welders into the 21st century.
Positions are available in metropolitan areas and a few select small cities and townships.
Instruction will be given in manual as well as automatic machine cutting and plasma arc cutting. Techniques such as scarfing, rivet blowing, and trimming will also be taught. Cutting of aluminum, mild steel, and stainless steel will be taught with the plasma arc cutting process. Instruction in safety, soldering, and braze-welding will also be stressed. Students will learn to weld ferrous and non-ferrous metals, such as mild steels, aluminum, stainless steels, light gauge and heavy gauge.