Aspiring welders in Utah can start long and successful careers thanks to several top-class training institutions in the state. They also enjoy several notable companies that are always looking to work with promising individuals and offer attractive salaries.
Interested candidates are advised to follow the steps below to begin their journey. This will ensure a direct entry into the field and give them ample opportunity for subsequent career growth.
Readers will also discover the top training programs for welders in Utah, curated using several quality metrics such as modern facilities and comprehensive, hands-on education. Lastly, we highlight some key figures that candidates can expect to earn throughout their careers based on a few determining factors.
How to Become a Welder in Utah
Aspiring welders in Utah may start their careers by following the steps below.
High School Diploma & Other Basic Requirements
All aspiring welders in Utah who want to start their careers by earning a degree or certificate from a formal program will likely have to possess a high school diploma or GED. This is because such institutions tend to make it a mandatory requirement. Some apprenticeship programs do as well.
Some may also ask for basic competency with tools and strong physical conditions.
Training Arrangements
A future welder must acquire technical proficiency in the classroom and real-world applications. Community colleges and trade schools offer welding programs that try as much as possible to provide candidates with comprehensive training in both aspects.
Apprenticeship programs organized by trade unions and professional organizations count as optional destinations with the capability of providing both hands-on and classroom training.
In an upcoming section, we dive into specific trade programs for aspiring welders in Utah to consider.
Continuing Education
Even after securing job placements at their establishment of choice, fresh welders in Utah are expected to stay updated on the latest developments, such as new techniques, technologies, and regulations. Typically, professionals in the field do this by participating in continuing education courses.
Such opportunities facilitate professional development and may be offered by trade schools, professional associations, and employers. Candidates may also consider earning professional credentials, which typically come with their continuing education requirements.
Explore trades with similar paths:
Licensure & Certification Requirements
Earning professional credentials in Utah will typically come with continuing education requirements. However, there are other benefits to taking such a step. There are so many advantages to doing so that even though the state mandates it, many welders nationwide still choose to become certified anyway.
It is important that, in the process of becoming certified, candidates in Utah go with credentials that are nationally recognized and offered by reputable organizations such as the American Welding Society (AWS). Those who would like to receive credentials in mechanical components may consider becoming certified by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
Certified Welding Educator (CWE), Certified Welder (CW), and Certified Robotic Arc Welder (CRAW) are some examples of the credentials offered by AWS.
Top Welding Schools in Utah
The following are some notable welding training programs in Utah.
Salt Lake Community College
Salt Lake City, UT Online + Campus
Salt Lake Community College offers a couple of strong student welding technology programs. These include a Certificate in Welding/Welding Technology program and an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Welding Fabrication and Inspection program.
Tuition
$4,257 - $13,701Contact
(801) 957-4073
admissions@slcc.edu
Davis Technical College
Kaysville, UT Campus Only
Davis Technical College runs an excellent welding training program that can be completed in 13 months. Candidates who complete this program typically enjoy a straightforward path to obtaining certification from the American Welding Society
Tuition
$95 - $190 per CreditContact
(801) 593-2500
info@davistech.edu
Southwest Technical College
Cedar City, UT Online + Campus
Southwest Technical College is another well-known institution with an excellent welding technology training program.
Tuition
$4,571 - $6,731Contact
(435) 586-2899
info@stech.edu
Explore welding schools in Utah by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
The best locations to work in Utah for welders looking to maximize their average salaries include Salt Lake City, with an annual average salary of $53,808; Ogden, with an annual average salary of $52,068; North Salt Lake, with an annual average salary of $50,707; Lindon, with an annual average salary of $49,650; and West Jordan, with an annual average salary of $49,627.
Generally, without focusing on a specific location, welders in Utah earn an annual average salary of $68,381 if they fall among the top 10% and an annual average salary of $36,895 if they fall among the bottom 10%.
Most common, however, are those in the midpoint range who take home an average of around $50,394 at the end of each year.
Along with location, welders in Utah may expect to earn more as they accrue more experience with time. They can also increase their yearly earnings by working in better companies, choosing a more lucrative specialty area, and obtaining higher-level professional credentials.