Welders are masters of metal fabrication. They can leverage existing technologies to produce aesthetic and functional utility creations.
Residents of Delaware who would like to express their artistic side in a profession that allows them to build important structures and utilities would do well to consider a welding career. To help them achieve optimal preparation, we have provided a guide below-containing everything they need to know to start their welding careers in the state on an excellent path.
We explore the basic prerequisites and educational alternatives. We then focus on how they can improve their employment potential and the licensure requirements in the state before focusing on some key salary figures.
How to Become a Welder in Delaware
These are the considerations involved in becoming a welder in Delaware:
Step 1: High School Diploma & Basic Requirements
Candidates who wish to become welders in Delaware are expected to have a high school diploma or GED and be in good physical condition, as the profession can be quite physically demanding.
Becoming familiar with various types of welding from the start will also give candidates an edge during their education.
Educational Considerations
Education is very important for aspiring welders, and candidates usually have to combine two forms of training to start their careers. The first form is classroom training, usually acquired in an academic environment.
The second form is on-the-job training, usually acquired in a work environment.
Combination Approach
Both forms of training are often provided in conjunction. For instance, academic programs such as community colleges that offer classroom training will also have some provisions for candidates to receive training in a laboratory.
Once they secure employment, they will work with the tools and equipment needed to perform their duties. Additionally, apprenticeship programs and employers who provide on-the-job training will also provide some form of classroom training so that students will understand the fundamental principles of the job and identify the theories behind what they are practicing.
Explore trades with similar paths:
Licensure & Certification Requirements
There are no licensing requirements to become a welder in Delaware. Candidates can start working when they feel educated enough to perform real-world duties.
However, it is worth pointing out that those taking on their contracts must receive a general contractor’s license.
As for certification, candidates are not expected to be certified to start their careers either. However, certification comes with several opportunities, so much so that candidates usually turn to a professional organization to receive credentials even at the beginning of their careers.
Doing so helps them verify their skills and take advantage of other career opportunities. For welders who would like to become certified in Delaware, the American Welding Society offers many high-quality credentials to consider.
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers also offers widely-recognized options.
Top Welding Schools in Delaware
Delaware welders often start their careers by attending any of the top programs below.
Delcastle Technical High School
Wilmington, DE Campus Only
Delcastle Technical High School in Wilmington is a wonderful place to receive welding training through programs recognized by top organizations like the American Welding Society (AWS) and the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).
Tuition
FreeContact
(302) 995-8000
debbie.dolde@nccvt.k12.de.us
Delaware Skills Center
New Castle, DE Campus Only
Delaware Skills Center in New Castle also offers excellent options for candidates to consider. Accepted applicants can expect to become proficient in basic principles and advanced topics.
Tuition
Call for DetailsContact
(302) 654-5392
POLYTECH Adult Education Center
Woodside, DE Campus Only
POLYTECH Adult Education Center offers apprenticeship programs in different fields. Thanks to its combination of classroom and hands-on training, the school has produced several successful welders.
Email: courtney.brown@polytech.k12.de.us
Tuition
$450 - $4,000 per ProgramContact
(302) 697-4545
Email in Bio
Explore welding schools in Delaware by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
Welders in Delaware fall into three distinct categories based on their yearly earnings. The median earners in the first category are the most common, and they manage an annual average salary of $60,643.
The low-level earners in the second category are less popular, but they still need to make an annual average salary of $35,718. The third and final category is the highest-paid in the state, and if they are among the top 10%, they can make an annual average salary of $102,960.
The experience level of a welder in Delaware can help them increase their earnings. Their location, specialization, and credentials also play huge roles.
Bear, New Castle, and Middletown currently boast the highest returns for welders in the state by location. Professionals in these places earn annual average salaries of $131,485, $96,411, and $66,645, respectively.
Welding as a discipline is expected to grow in Delaware, with thousands of job openings arising over the coming years.