To research more careers options, see our previous Job Market articles . As a result, welders are in demand. But not everyone who takes welding classes is set on becoming a full-time welder. Roger Squirrel, who teaches welding at South Seattle Community College, said the demand for trained welders is growing as industries that fabricate medium and light-metal products expand.
Wages depend on the type of work done and whether the job is covered by a union contract.
A typical small-business employer of welders is Kvichak Marine Industries in Seattle's Fremont neighborhood. Between 25 and 30 welders work full-time building aluminum boats, from sightseeing boats for the Hawaiian Islands to enforcement vessels for fish and wildlife agencies. He waved his arm toward welders working on commercial boats of more than 50 feet long and several smaller utility boats for the Navy. There is work. Kvichak and other employers look for welders who hold certificates issued by the Washington Association of Building Officials.