Welders are versatile professionals whose expertise is needed in various fields, from building construction to vehicles and even offshore activities. In Ohio, anyone considering a career as a welder must love tools and metal fabrication.
They must also go through some steps that are common to aspiring welders all over the country, as well as others that are peculiar to welders in Ohio. In the article below, we discuss all of these requirements.
We also look at the possible certification that may help a fresh welder in the state stand out, along with top schools in the area and the salary projection.
How to Become a Welder in Ohio
The following are the steps involved in becoming a professional welder in Ohio.
Step 1: Get your High School Diploma
Welders in Ohio need a high school diploma to help them gain admission into training programs. Additionally, passing through a high school course in welding or metal fabrication allows students to obtain the essential skills for the job. Those who don’t have a high school diploma may submit a GED equivalent.
Step 2: Enroll in an Academic Training Program
The second step for aspiring welders in Ohio to begin their careers is where they get to learn what they will need for their welding duties. Usually, individuals apply for certificate or degree programs at community colleges and trade schools. Such institutions provide various courses covering both classroom instructions and practical applications. The cost of using a welding program usually depends on the certificate or degree in sight and the school’s reputation, among other factors.
Step 3: Consider an Apprenticeship Program
Attending an academic program is optional for aspiring welders in Ohio. Those who wish to explore other alternatives may think of participating in an apprenticeship instead. This is a great avenue to gain welding knowledge while also building up experience on the job.
Step 4: Consider Certification
Certification is another aspect of starting a welding career that is not mandatory but can be incredibly beneficial. Having a professional credential helps individuals validate their skills while allowing them to grow and network with other professionals in the field.
In the upcoming sections, we look at some of the best certification options for welders in Ohio.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
The state of Ohio does not have mandatory licensure requirements for welders in the state. Welders who want to become certified usually consider the credentials offered by the American Welding Society (AWS).
To obtain certification from the organization, individuals must take a written exam and renew their license periodically.
The AWS offers certification in various categories, including Certified Welding Inspector, Certified Welding Educator, Certified Welding Engineer, Certified Robotic Arc Welding, Senior Certified Welding Inspector, Certified Radiographic Interpreter, and Certified Welding Supervisor, among others.
Top Welding Schools in Ohio
Below are some of the most notable training schools for aspiring welders in Ohio to consider.
Columbus State Community College
Future welders in Ohio tend to choose the welding program at Columbus State Community College thanks to its comprehensiveness and emphasis on classroom and hands-on training.
Students who get accepted here can choose between an associate degree program that can be completed in 24 months and a certificate program that can be completed in 12 months.
Owens Community College
Owens Community College offers an associate degree program in welding technology that can be completed in 24 months. The school also has a certificate option that can be completed in just 6 months. Regardless of which program a student chooses, they can enjoy quality education under the tutelage of experienced instructors.
Eastern Gateway Community College
Lastly, Eastern Gateway Community College is another option for aspiring welders in Ohio looking for high-quality training. Before they graduate, students of this program will have become familiar with how to read blueprints and carry out advanced fabrication.
The program can be completed in 24 months for an associate degree or 12 months for an advanced certificate.
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Salary & Career Outlook
The annual salary for welders in Ohio is $44,043, practically in line with the national average. Welders in Ohio who fall into the highest earning bracket may take home as high as $58,027, while those who fall into the lowest earning bracket still manage an annual average salary of $33,429.
There is currently around a $10,000 differential between welders with 1 year of experience and those with more than 10 years of experience.
Concerning the highest paying cities for welders in Ohio, they include Celina, with an annual average salary of $57,280; Mentor, with an average yearly salary of $48,710; and Columbus, with an average annual wage of $48,335.
Welders in Wooster and Cleveland earn annual average salaries of $46,322 and $45,588 respectively.
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