To be certified, welders must pass qualification tests given by some employers, trade associations, and government agencies. There are several ways to get the experience needed to become a skilled combination welder. One is supervised classroom practice using different welding processes, tools, and machines. Some welders who have the necessary capital open job shops of their own. Welders and cutters with the required experience and training may advance to inspector or may become welding instructors.
Some welders belong to more than one union, which increases their job referral possibilities.
Often, employers use a pre-employment screening process. Some unions, apprenticeship training programs and vocational schools give job-hunting instruction as part of formal training programs. The purpose of this occupational guide is to provide you with useful information to help you make career decisions.