Welder

A welder is a trained professional that melds various types of metal together for construction or other purposes. Often welders work in factories, manufacturing plants, production lines or even automobile or steel working plants. Welders can work on large projects or very small detailed projects and may have formal education through vocational training programs or may have completed their training through apprenticeship programs or on the job training.

Welders may work with a variety of types of equipment including torches, hand held plasma cutting machines and even computer systems that are programmed to complete specific designs through plasma cutting systems. Materials that can be welding include steel, brass, aluminum and virtually all other types of metals. Each different type of materials requires specific welding styles and processes, and it is up to the professional welder to choose the methods, machine or tools, as well as the correct welding supplies to complete the job. Incorrect choices lead to welds that do not hold and potential safety hazards as well as missed deadlines with regards to job completion.

Welders often work outside even in very cold and wet conditions. Some welders are specially trained to weld under water on sea or ocean based drilling rigs. Welders are also used in gas pipe construction, shipbuilding, military and aerospace construction and vehicle manufacturing. Welders usually work as part of a production crew but largely work independently reporting back to a foremen or crew supervisor when required.

Common work activities include:

• Selecting tools, equipment and supplies needed for the welding job they have been assigned to.
• Completing welding as required following proper practices and appropriate welding procedures.
• Using safety equipment for welding in various places as required.
• Working as part of the welding crew or team to complete the project within the timeline indicated by the foreman or project team leader.
• Attending trainings and classes to keep up to date on the latest welding technology including the use of computers in plasma welding.

Top Online College Degree Programs

	Kaplan University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Kaplan University has a wide range of programs available for individuals who want to make a career change or improve their job prospects. As a leader in online education, Kaplan delivers innovative, relevant, and convenient education.
	Ashford University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Ashford University aims to make education accessible and affordable for every kind of student. Students can enhance their career opportunities without sacrificing commitments to work, family, or the military.
	University of Phoenix - Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's & Doctorate Degrees. University of Phoenix is an outstanding university with programs offered both online and on campus. Phoenix is committed to helping students develop intellectually and personally in order to reach their career goals.
	Liberty University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Liberty University is an evangelical school that offers programs online and on campus. Individuals who want to change career fields or advance in their current field will be able to obtain their degree in a flexible and affordable manner at Liberty.
	American InterContinental University Online - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. AIU is a career-oriented education that prepares students to take on today's fastest-growing jobs. With students all over the world, AIU is able to cater to the individual needs and career goals of every type of student.
	DeVry University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. DeVry University provides students with a practical, hands-on education from instructors who are accomplished in their respective field. DeVry has programs for students on campus and online so students can get their degree in an affordable, flexible way.
	Everest University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Everest University designs degree programs for today's fastest-growing job markets. For this reason, Everest graduates are well-trained and well-prepared to succeed in their respective fields.
	Westwood College - Associate's & Bachelor's Degrees. Westwood College is a career-oriented college that prepares students to meet the needs of today's fast-changing job market. Students can advance or change their career without putting the rest of their lives on hold.