Becoming certified shows your proficiency in a trade, and certified welders are highly sought-after in the workforce. For those who are interested in becoming a welding apprentice, you will need to obtain specific certifications to work in the industry. Before starting as an apprentice welder, you should attend a diploma program and need a welder’s certificate to work in Oklahoma1, Florida, and Texas2.
How Many Certificates Do You Need for Welding?
Welding certificates are offered by the American Welding Society (AWS)3 to verify your welding knowledge and skills. You must pass practical welding expertise exams to work in the industry. Some of the welding certifications offered by AWS include:
Certified Welder (CW) – the certification exam tests a welder’s skills in standard procedures in different industries like oil and gas, pipeline, structural steel, and chemical refinery.
Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) – help assess newly graduated welders using the instructor’s experience in the welding industry and passing a three-part computerized exam.
Senior Certified Welding Inspector (SCWI) – for certified welding inspectors with advanced skills in quality systems, procedure qualifications, and other welding expertise.
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Certified Welding Educator (CWE) – starts a welder on the path to instructing welding at their local trade school.
Certified Resistance Welding Technician (CRWT) – gives welders proof of advanced abilities in resistance welding, resistance principles, and knowledge of industries like the automotive industry.
Certified Radiographic Interpreter (CRI) – certifies a welder’s ability to analyze radiographs, the units used to fuse two pieces together.
Certified Robotic Arc Welding (CRAW) – a measurement of a welder’s ability compared to occupational standards and their working knowledge of codes, standards, and specifications.
Certified Welding Sales Representative (CWSR) – shows a welder’s ability to be a liaison between manufacturers, distributors, and customers.
Certified Welding Supervisor (CWS) – the highest designation in the welding profession. A certification for managers in the welding industry to show exemplary leadership, experience in quality assurance, and excellent problem-solving skills.
Why Get a Welding Certification?
There are many reasons to get a welding certification. They include:
Proof of Proficiency
Passing the certified welder certification exam is an easier way to prove to employers that you have the knowledge and skills to be a welder. By passing this exam, you demonstrate your proficiency in welding fundamentals and can produce quality welds in different positions, using unique materials, and for multiple industries.
Visibility in the Job Market
Although there is a demand for welders*, standing out in the job market can be challenging. With certifications, you can catch the eye of employers and move your resume to the top of the stack.
Opportunities for Advancement
When you are ready to take on more responsibility and become a senior member of your crew, your employer will look for certifications to understand whether you are committed to the role and have an interest in continuous improvement.
Want to Learn More?
The Professional Welder program at Tulsa Welding School’s Jacksonville campus starts by helping you know what it’s like to be a welder in interactive workshop courses and welding booths. You’ll be trained in structural, flux core, and pipe welding in as little as seven months. 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 skills. Ready to start a Professional Welding program? Contact us today about our welding certification preparation program.
*Employment is expected to grow for Welders, Cutters, Solderers & Brazers (514121) in Oklahoma, Texas and Florida by 21%, 23%, and 19% respectively through 2030. https://www.careeronestop.org
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