Why Welding?
Welding craftsmen are highly thought of members of the construction and fabrication team and pay for a skilled person will often reflect the importance of the role. Major projects such as pipelines, bridges or oil rigs cannot be put at risk through bad workmanship. Welding is a transferable skill not confined to one country. Skills and qualifications obtained in the UK are valid in Europe and Worldwide.

If you are good with your hands and enjoy working with tools, you are likely to be able to respond to welder training. Contact Lois Appleyard for a copy of the fact sheet 'Welding as a Career' at the AWFTE (Association for Welding and Fabrication Training and Education) on 01223 899000.

What are the Prospects?
Trained welders who show an aptitude for management can through further training become a supervisor and go on through college to gain levels of European qualification such as technologist or Engineer. More details are available from TWI Training & Examinations on 01223 891162.

How do I Become a Welder?
If you are leaving school your best course of action is to get a place on a training scheme or modern apprenticeship which can be linked to appropriate vocational training courses.

Adults who want to change their career should approach their further education college for evening class availability. Ask the TWI for a copy of the 'AWFTE Directory' which has nation wide coverage of available courses. Full time 2 to 10 week courses are available through a number of commercial training organisations, check the Yellow Pages or search for Welder Training on the web.