Welders are usually highly trained in fundamental metal fabrication techniques and methodologies. However, experts in this field often narrow their focus to a specific area.
This is a popular approach because welding is used in various industries, from shipbuilding and construction to aircraft manufacturing.
Wyoming residents looking to enter a welding specialty must follow the guidelines set by the state and potential employers. We discuss these guidelines in detail below.
Along with breaking down the journey into individual steps, we also explore the licensing and certification considerations and reveal a list of top-quality institutions from which to receive comprehensive education right from the start.
How to Become a Welder in Wyoming
The outline below reveals how to become a welder in Wyoming.
Step 1: Choosing an Educational Pathway
The following are the educational pathways available to start a welding career in Wyoming.
Technical Institutions
Technical institutions like community colleges and vocational schools offer comprehensive welding programs in various categories and specialties. Wyoming residents can take advantage of these destinations to start their careers excellently.
Depending on the duration of their chosen training, students can earn a certificate or an associate degree. Some schools also offer the opportunity to receive training in the real world.
On-the-Job Training
Prospective welders may attend an apprenticeship program for “on-the-job” training. Trade unions and professional organizations are the best places for this training arrangement.
It is also possible to receive training directly through a welding company. Students can learn directly from licensed welders.
It is more common to begin a career this way if a candidate already has some experience in a related area.
Step 2: Employment & Specialty
Properly trained candidates may secure full-time employment as welders in Wyoming. They may choose a specialty area and earn professional certification to this effect.
Certification can help them with specialization while offering other benefits. We explore this topic in detail below.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
In Wyoming, the law does not compel welders to pursue licensing or certification. They must simply meet the requirements set by employers, and they’ll be fine.
Completing all the steps we’ve listed earlier will help them achieve this goal. However, it is increasingly common for employers to prefer working with certified professionals over uncertified ones.
Thankfully, becoming certified as a welder in Wyoming is quite straightforward. Candidates first need to choose a certifying organization. The American Welding Society and the National Institute for Metalworking Skills are the most common options.
Afterward, they need to select a specific credential. The AWS offers certification as welders, welding inspectors, welding educators, welding engineers, and welding supervisors.
Lastly, candidates must pass a certification examination and periodically renew their credentials to remain certified welders in the state.
Top Welding Schools in Wyoming
The following schools offer high-quality welding programs for candidates in Wyoming.
Wyotech
Laramie, WY Campus Only
Wyoming residents can enroll in an Applied Welding Technology program at Wyotech to start their careers on a favorable path.
Tuition
$27,500 per ProgramContact
(307) 742-3776
info@wyotech.edu
Eastern Wyoming Community College
Torrington, WY Campus Only
Eastern Wyoming Community College has offered a Welding and Joining Technology training program since 1980. Those who complete this program earn an associate of applied science degree.
Tuition
$105 - $315 per CreditContact
(307) 532-8200
ewcadmissions@ewc.wy.edu
Western Wyoming Community College
Rock Springs, WY Campus Only
Western Wyoming Community College's Welding Technology program is another excellent choice. The program is over 80 years old and has produced its fair share of successful graduates.
Tuition
$105 - $351 per CreditContact
(307) 382-1600
admissions@westernwyoming.edu
Explore welding schools in Wyoming by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
A survey of welders in Wyoming revealed that the average salary of these professionals in the state could be as high as $91,658. However, this figure will only be possible for those who have managed to find themselves among the top 10% in the state.
A fresh candidate starting their career will fall among the median or bottom 10% earners. The survey also shows that the annual average salary for the median earners is $67,221, while the average salary for the lowest earners is $49,299.
Some factors capable of launching professionals from a low-earning bracket to a high-earning bracket are experience, specialty, credentials, and establishment/capacity of employment. Location also plays a role.
Gillette is where welders in Wyoming manage the highest annual average salary. The people who work here take home an annual average salary of $69,478.
Another excellent destination is Casper, with an annual average salary of $63,675. The projections for welding in Wyoming are very favorable, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a year-on-year increase for the foreseeable future.