Welding Schools in Iowa

Practical experience is vital for anyone who wants to become a successful welder in Iowa. Several important considerations are involved in the process, and these either contribute to a good start or a sustainable career with rapid career growth.

Candidates familiar with these requirements from the start will have an edge over those who are not. To ensure readers of this page fall into the first category, we have prepared a detailed guide below covering all the major considerations needed to become a successful welder in Iowa.

We examine the certification options, training pathways, networking potential, and annual average salary projection based on several criteria.

How to Become a Welder in Iowa

Welders in Iowa typically start their careers by following the steps below.

Basic Requirements

Welders are expected to have a high school diploma or GED and possess soft skills such as agility, physical strength, and attention to detail, which are basic requirements before education. A solid understanding of basic mathematics and geometry also helps candidates significantly along the way.

Educational Options

Welding students may choose between classroom training, on-the-job training, or a combination of both for their education.

• Classroom Training — is typically offered by academic programs such as trade schools and vocational institutions. This kind of training prepares candidates for the practical aspects of the job by teaching them the fundamental principles behind common tasks.

Candidates can also leverage these programs to acquire valuable degrees and credentials.

• On-the-Job Training—On-the-job training allows candidates to practice the fundamental principles they have been taught. It also ensures that they are well-prepared enough to take on full-time positions without needing constant supervision.

Some on-the-job programs may also offer salaries even as training goes on.

• Combination - Generally, the best option for candidates is to find a way to combine classroom training with hands-on training. They may do this by attending an academic program and then completing an apprenticeship program.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn to become an electrician in Iowa

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Even though receiving welding certification to start a career in Iowa is not mandatory, candidates are expected to pursue it to launch their careers on a strong path. Certification is a great way to verify a professional’s skills and also opens the door for continuing education and career opportunities.

Many people in Iowa and across the country turn to the American Welding Society first for a welding credential. Here, candidates can receive credentials like the Certified Welder, Certified Welding Technologist, and Certified Welding Educator, among others.

Those searching for an alternative to the AWS may consider the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Candidates should be prepared to pass professional examinations before they can be certified.

Just like certification, licensing is not mandatory for welders in Iowa.

Top Welding Schools in Iowa

The entries below are among the best places to study as an aspiring welder in Iowa.

Explore welding schools in Iowa by city:

• Welding schools in Des Moines

Salary & Career Outlook

While the annual average salary for welders in Iowa can get as high as $87,681, this will only be possible when candidates have optimized key factors and moved up to be among the top earners in the state. Those who have yet to do so may be among the low-level or median earners.

The median annual salary for welders in Iowa is $57,925, while the bottom 10% take home an annual average salary of $38,267. The key factors to optimize for a higher salary include experience level, specialty area, credentials, and location.

Welders in Quad Cities and Johnston earn the highest annual average income in Iowa, with salaries of around $80,620 and $77,611 yearly. Des Moines comes third with a $61,750 annual average salary.

The projections for welders in Iowa are as promising as they are across the country. Advancements in technology are set to lead to consistent year-on-year increases in employment, which will be sustained across the coming decade.