Nevada residents interested in starting a welding career will inevitably have to make several choices regarding their training program, educational pathway, certification, and more.
The guide on this page breaks down all of these considerations into individual requirements to ensure that readers are well-informed enough to make the optimal career decision every step of the way. We start by exploring the basic requirements needed to become a welder in Nevada before moving on to the educational options and certification categories.
Interested individuals will also determine which programs are among the best in the state and what figures they can expect concerning their potential annual average salaries.
How to Become a Welder in Nevada
Individuals in Nevada typically follow the path below to start their welding careers in the state.
The Basic Requirements
Physical fitness, critical thinking, and manual dexterity are the basic requirements for becoming a welder. Candidates may also be asked to submit their high school transcripts or GED equivalent to secure admission into a training destination.
Choosing a Training Destination
Regarding their chosen training destination, candidates who want to receive a college degree or certificate typically start their careers with academic training. Here, they will be introduced to basic welding concepts and learn key topics in the classroom.
Some academic programs also boast laboratories and workshops where students can visualize the concepts they are being taught and even work with actual tools and equipment for hands-on training.
Work Experience
On the other hand, those who would like to launch their careers by practicing in a work environment under experienced welders typically choose apprenticeship programs as their preferred educational option.
This arrangement provides a solid base for pursuing job placement upon graduation and possible mentorship from established professionals.
Of course, candidates don’t have to choose one at the expense of the other. They can combine academic and hands-on training to gain the best of both worlds.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
Welders in Nevada can start their professional careers without a license. However, they need some way to stand out and give themselves an edge over competitors.
One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by pursuing certification. Becoming certified facilitates career opportunities through skills verification, continuing education, networking resources, and more.
In Nevada and across the country, welders needing certification tend to pursue credentials offered by the American Welding Society. These credentials are highly respected among companies and professionals.
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers also offers certification for welders, including those working in the shipbuilding industry.
Both organizations expect candidates to pass an examination to earn and renew their credentials through continuing education.
Top Welding Schools in Nevada
The schools below are among Nevada’s best choices for excellent welding training.
College of Southern Nevada
Las Vegas, NV Campus Only
The College of Southern Nevada offers welding training in various areas, such as oxyfuel cutting, gas tungsten arc welding, plasma cutting, and more.
Tuition
$123 - $223 per ProgramContact
(702) 651-5000
registrar@csn.edu
Western Nevada College
Carson City, NV Campus Only
Western Nevada College's Associate of Applied Science degree in Welding Technology is another excellent option.
Tuition
$123 - $223 per ProgramContact
(775) 445-3000
info_desk@wnc.edu
Las Vegas Institute of Welding
Las Vegas, NV Campus Only
Lastly, prospective welders in Nevada may turn to the Las Vegas Institute of Welding for a high-quality education. The school has modern equipment, skilled instructors, and a reputation for producing successful graduates.
Tuition
$6000 per ProgramContact
(702) 518-1157
Admin@LVIW.net
Explore welding schools in Nevada by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
Based on factors such as experience and location, welders in Nevada can fall among the top, median, and low-level earners. Those among the top earners make around $109,851 in annual average salary; those in the median category earn around $60,516 in annual average salary; and those among the bottom earners manage an annual average salary of $33,338.
Along with experience and location, specialty and industry of employment also play significant roles in influencing these numbers.
Focusing on specific locations, welders in Carson City are the highest-paid in the state, with an annual average salary of $109,851. Those working in Las Vegas Valley earn an annual salary of $66,289, while those working in Sparks get paid an average of $66,002 annually.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics and other employment platforms predict yearly growth in employment for welders in Nevada, consistent with the positive projections across the country.