Welding Schools in Colorado

While there are several areas of specialization in welding, the journey to becoming a welder in Colorado typically follows the same general pathways, at least in the beginning. Sure, candidates have a few alternatives regarding their training destination, but ultimately, the goal is the same.

Here, they are expected to be introduced to the fundamentals of the field while getting their hands on actual tools and equipment to ensure they are ready for the real world. They may then pursue specialization further down the road.

The article below breaks down all of these key steps, including certification and licensure requirements that an aspiring welder in Colorado must be familiar with. This will ensure they are well-prepared for the journey and confident about their chances.

How to Become a Welder in Colorado

Below are the steps involved in becoming a welder in Colorado.

Step 1: Identify a Specialty Area

Identifying a specialty area is usually something that candidates are advised to do at the start of their journeys. Even though it is possible to have a change of mind along the way, it usually helps to become familiar with the various options right from the start.

Step 2: Have your High School Diploma or GED

Once candidates identify which kind of welding specialization they want, the next major step is to fulfill the basic educational requirements needed for that specialty.

Most training programs will ask candidates to have at least a high school diploma or GED before enrolling in their institutions. It also helps greatly in understanding basic topics in mathematics and geometry.

Step 3: Enroll in a Top Training Program

Lastly, candidates may enroll in a training program for welding skills. Usually, they will receive training in general welding before possible specialist topics.

Candidates may receive welding training in Colorado from one of two places: one is from academic programs, while the other option is to enroll in an apprenticeship program.

Both training are valid as long as they provide classroom and hands-on experience, possibly in a real-world environment.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn to become a wind turbine technician in Colorado

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Colorado remains one of the states with statewide licensing requirements for welders. This means that candidates simply have to follow the steps above, secure employment, and they may begin to work legally in the state.

Of course, it is common to see certified welders in Colorado. Most of these professionals, however, choose to become certified of their own accord, thanks to the numerous benefits of doing so.

The American Welding Society, for example, offers a Certified Welder credential that helps candidates stand out and attain a degree of credibility typically appealing to potential employers. The credential requires attaining a passing score in a professional examination.

Because it requires continuing education to maintain, candidates also enjoy the benefit of being ahead in the field.

Top Welding Schools in Colorado

Here are some top-quality training destinations for comprehensive welding training in Colorado.

Notable Mentions

Destinations for comprehensive welding training in Colorado include Pickens Technical College in Aurora, Pikes Peak Community College in Colorado Springs, Pueblo Community College in Pueblo, Emily Griffith Technical College in Denver, and Community College of Denver in Denver.

Explore Welding Schools in Colorado by City:

• Welding Schools in Denver

Salary & Career Outlook

Entry-level welders in Colorado earn an average annual salary of $35,059, which is part of the bottom 10%. In comparison, those who have spent much time on the job tend to earn an annual average salary of up to $70,152 (thereby falling into the top 10% bracket).

Usually, however, the median annual salary for welders in Colorado is $49,593, according to a survey by Indeed. Location and experience are among the most prominent factors in determining how much a welder in Colorado will earn.

For instance, welders in Berthoud earn an annual average salary of $58,896, while those in Denver earn an annual average salary of $55,800. Welders in Westminster earn an annual average salary of $55,704.

Boulder and Arvada round up the top five highest-paying locations for welders in Colorado, with annual average salaries of $54,727 and $51,567, respectively.