Welding is a crucial component of almost all industries. Its applications are everywhere, from basic household appliances to the world’s tallest skyscraper.

Given its versatility, one would think that many young minds are drawn to the profession. But, unfortunately, this is not the case.

The American Welding Society says that by 2027, the U.S. will have a shortage of 360,000 welders, with 90,000 jobs opening every year.

This demand implies that skilled welders will be a hot commodity in the coming years, with potential welders benefiting from competitive salaries and job security. Plus, it can be a very fulfilling profession.

For further proof, take a look at the life of the average automotive welder. 

What Automotive Welders Do

An automotive welder, as the name suggests, fuses metal components of various automobiles — from passenger automobiles to military-grade vehicles to even supercars used in motorsport.

The daily tasks of an automotive welder could include making common repairs, crafting metal components, or improving the design and functionality of parts. A welder can also play a huge role in ensuring the safety and reliability of automobiles. 

There’s a lot of flexibility involved as well — automotive welders can work for companies in several ancillary industries, from car repair workshops to the boat and marine industry to agricultural or heavy equipment manufacturing.

A custom automotive fabrication expert, meanwhile, could decide to craft components of sports cars, trucks, or even antique vehicles, while an auto mechanic can carry out repairs or improve a car’s structural integrity and design, depending on their expertise. 

The options are limitless.

What skills and training are required?

Automotive welding is a highly skilled profession and requires years of training to get right. Depending on the scope of the project, a number of welding processes are in use — the most popular being arc, MIG, and TIG welding.

Training in newer processes like plasma or laser beam welding is, of course, a bonus. 

Apart from a strong knowledge of processes, potential automotive welders could also benefit from familiarizing themselves with the safety procedures and properties of the materials they will be working with.

As with any other profession, additional skills also count. Some basic qualities that can come in handy include: 

• Solid time management skills
• Attention to detail
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Good decision-making
• Problem-solving and lateral thinking
• Basic math and computational skills

In recent years, experience with automated welding systems has also proven to be beneficial. Automated specialists with specific training in robotic welding processes can stand to earn more money and be eligible for more jobs. 

The American Welding Society (AWS) offers several certifications that help potential welders get started on this journey. These range from certified welding educator to certified welding engineer to certifications in robotic arc welding. 

Work Smarter with nexAir’s KnowHow

Embarking on a new profession can be a challenging but also exciting prospect. As you embark on your journey, you can rely on nexAir, the leading supplier of welding equipment across the Southeast, to be your trusted ally. 

Since the 1940s, nexAir has shared its KnowHow with automotive industries across the U.S., helping them Forge Forward with not only the highest quality products but also the expertise and skills it takes to get to the top. 

For any further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is happy to help!