3 answers
Olivia
Student
Wasilla, Alaska
2
Questions
Updated
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What is the hardest part of being a welder?
I am a high school senior, looking to become a career welder. I know the job is messy and tough, but I also know I can handle it. I want to know, what is the toughest thing I'll have to prepare myself for? #fall25
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3 answers
Dave Buchanan
AWS CWI/CWE
6
Answers
Lapeer, Michigan
Updated
Dave’s Answer
Hi Olivia!
This question might seem easy enough to answer, but is quite difficult actually. There are so many different sectors, specialties, and processes in welding that it's hard to narrow it down to a single "toughest thing". However, I believe that the toughest thing you should prepare for is finding a business that will give you a chance given your age and lack of experience. Hopefully you'll find a place that will employ as well as teach. Good luck!
This question might seem easy enough to answer, but is quite difficult actually. There are so many different sectors, specialties, and processes in welding that it's hard to narrow it down to a single "toughest thing". However, I believe that the toughest thing you should prepare for is finding a business that will give you a chance given your age and lack of experience. Hopefully you'll find a place that will employ as well as teach. Good luck!
Thank you Dave! I'm planning on completing an advanced training course within a few years. Otherwise, I'm young and I have plenty of time, which I am willing to give :)
Olivia
Xander Swapp
Welder
3
Answers
Ogden, Utah
Updated
Xander’s Answer
Hey Olivia
The toughest thing about being a welder in my experience is being able to have some thick skin and being able to deal with a lot of physical and mental tolls. The welding industry is a great place, but sometimes people are mean for no reason at all, and other times they're teasing you to gauge what you’re comfortable with. Most of the things people say aren’t meant to offend you or insult you, they're just poking fun. As far as the physical toll it has on your body, I’d be lying if I said you’ll come out of it unscathed. You’re gonna burn yourself, you’re gonna hurt your eyes, you’re gonna breathe in some bad stuff, and your body is just generally gonna wear down. Don’t skimp on your PPE. Buy a good hood thats comfortable and protects your eyes. Get a good set of boots thats not going to hurt your feet or back if you’re standing for 8-12 hours a day. If you have the opportunity, invest in a good respirator or even a papper hood that will filter air while you’re welding. It’s going to be expensive, but it’s worth it in the long run
The toughest thing about being a welder in my experience is being able to have some thick skin and being able to deal with a lot of physical and mental tolls. The welding industry is a great place, but sometimes people are mean for no reason at all, and other times they're teasing you to gauge what you’re comfortable with. Most of the things people say aren’t meant to offend you or insult you, they're just poking fun. As far as the physical toll it has on your body, I’d be lying if I said you’ll come out of it unscathed. You’re gonna burn yourself, you’re gonna hurt your eyes, you’re gonna breathe in some bad stuff, and your body is just generally gonna wear down. Don’t skimp on your PPE. Buy a good hood thats comfortable and protects your eyes. Get a good set of boots thats not going to hurt your feet or back if you’re standing for 8-12 hours a day. If you have the opportunity, invest in a good respirator or even a papper hood that will filter air while you’re welding. It’s going to be expensive, but it’s worth it in the long run
Thanks for taking the time to answer! I already have a few good scars from slag haha. I have a nice hood, and as far as other PPE, I got most of it second hand. When I start welding more often, I plan on investing in some good quality PPE.
Olivia
Jenna Sullivan
Shipfitter
2
Answers
Brunswick, Maine
Updated
Jenna’s Answer
Hi Olivia!
There are a couple of things that you should be prepared for.
1. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Some employers will see that if you are smaller in stature, they can put you in tight spots that may not be the comfiest. Just take your time, breathe, and understand you don't have to get that weld done in one continuous motion.
2. Finding your niche. There are so many different processes in welding as well as industries. Don't be afraid to dip your toe in everything, and don't stay at a job you don't like. The worst thing, in my opinion, is being stuck under a hood for 8 or more hours doing welds you don't even want to be doing.
Good luck!
There are a couple of things that you should be prepared for.
1. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Some employers will see that if you are smaller in stature, they can put you in tight spots that may not be the comfiest. Just take your time, breathe, and understand you don't have to get that weld done in one continuous motion.
2. Finding your niche. There are so many different processes in welding as well as industries. Don't be afraid to dip your toe in everything, and don't stay at a job you don't like. The worst thing, in my opinion, is being stuck under a hood for 8 or more hours doing welds you don't even want to be doing.
Good luck!
Thank you, Jenna! I plan to explore different areas, and also maybe one day starting my own local fabrication business.
Olivia