Ready to start working as a welder but not sure if you need to get a certificate? If you want to work as a professional welder, you have options. You have the choice of first attaining a diploma or a certificate.
Both are important! Before you can apply for a certification, you must pass a preliminary exam that tests your ability as a professional welder. A great way to prepare for this exam is by attaining your diploma from Tulsa Welding School (TWS).
What is a Welding Certificate?
Attaining a welding certificate shows your proficiency as a professional welder. You are someone that can perform basic welding techniques and understands the safety protocols involved in the welding trade.
Do I Need a Welding Certificate to Start Working in the Industry?
Yes, a welder’s certification is necessary to work as a welder in Oklahoma. To apply for the certification, you must have knowledge of shielded metal arc welding, stud arc welding, and submerged arc welding.
Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) – also known as stick welding, SMAW is a type of welding that uses a consumable electrode covered with a flux coating that helps a welder join two metal pieces together.
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Stud Arc Welding – a welding process that attaches a metal stud or fastener to a metal base. The electric arc is used to heat the stud and base material. The heat melts the metal and forms a strong bond between the stud and base materials.
Submerged Arc Welding – involves the formation of an arc between an electrode and the base material. Powered flux creates a protective gas shield and a slap to protect the weld.
Welding Diploma vs Welder Certificate
Although both a welding diploma and certificate are important for a welder to obtain, a diploma can be the first step in the process to becoming a welder. A diploma can be earned at TWS in as little as 7 months. A diploma program is a great way to prepare for the certification exam.
After completing a welding diploma program, passing the certification exam, and obtaining 3 to 4 years of work experience as an apprentice, you become eligible to apply for a welder’s license at the Oklahoma Department of Labor. The welder’s license elevates you to the status of journeyman welder.
What are the Benefits of a Welding Diploma?
There are many benefits to having a welding diploma. They include:
Proof of Achievement
Obtaining a welding diploma demonstrates that you have foundational welding knowledge in both welding technique and safety protocol. This is important when applying for a new job. Employers look for educational achievement when they review resumes and having a welding diploma will put you at the head of the pack.
Better Job Security
Having a welding diploma gives you a competitive advantage when looking for a new job or applying for advancement. When it is time to reduce a company’s workforce, they will look to welders with educational achievements and job experience. It can also be easier to find another job with a diploma if the time comes.
The Confidence of Others
Employers and co-workers want to know that they are working with highly trained welders with both a diploma and certificate. Not only will you gain confidence in your abilities, but your co-workers will too. They know that you can work independently with little oversite and that everyone will be safe on the job site.
Want to Learn More?
Interested in learning how to obtain a welding diploma and certificate? The Professional Welder program at Tulsa Welding School starts by helping you learn what it’s really like to be a welder: in interactive workshop courses and welding booths. In as little as seven months, you’ll be trained in structural welding, flux core welding and pipe welding. You’ll also be prepared to excel in job interviews and welding tests for various certifications.
Read about the types of welding careers you can pursue with your welding skills. Ready to start a Professional Welder program? Contact us today.
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