Pros and Cons of Being a Welder

Introduction

• Focused on full-time welders aiming for high salaries (over $100,000)
• Speaker: 24 years old, 7 years of experience, certified welder, journeyman boilermaker for 1 year
• Emphasis on big-money positions in welding, particularly in versatile trades like boilermaking

Pros of Being a Welder

1. Pay

• Potential to earn $100,000 to $300,000 (especially in supervisory roles)
• Big money in welding exists, particularly in high-skill, high-demand fields (oil and gas, aerospace, mining, etc.)

2. Low Start-up Costs for Tools

• Minimal investment required for basic tools and personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Many jobs provide necessary equipment, reducing personal investment

3. Opportunity to Work on Interesting Projects

• Exposure to unique and diverse industries (nuclear power, mining, steel production, etc.)
• Experience working with impressive machinery and infrastructure

4. Employment Demand

• Welders are always in demand; job opportunities exist in populated areas
• Consistent need for welders, ensuring steady employment

5. Flexibility in Location

• Ability to work anywhere there is infrastructure
• Jobs available globally, depending on the local economy and industry presence

Cons of Being a Welder

1. Limited High-Paying Jobs

• Approximately 80% of welding jobs pay under $100,000
• High pay often requires specialized skills and work in major industries
• Many welding jobs (e.g., shop work) don't pay well

2. Travel Requirements

• Traveling for work can be demanding and may lead to long stretches away from home
• Two main scenarios: short-term travel for various projects or long-term assignments away from home
• Can disrupt work-life balance and lead to isolation

3. Health Hazards

• Physical dangers (e.g., working with heavy machinery, falls, injuries)
• Long-term health risks from inhalation of fumes and dust
• Potential for substance abuse issues due to lifestyle demands

4. Long Hours and Overtime

• High likelihood of working more than 40 hours a week
• Many jobs require 10-12 hour days, which can affect personal time and health

5. Extensive Testing

• Welders often face strict certification testing to secure jobs
• Potentially overwhelming testing requirements, especially for specialized jobs
• Failing tests can mean losing job opportunities or income

Conclusion

• Speaker encourages feedback and sharing additional pros and cons in comments
• Acknowledgement of the complexity of the welding profession and the variety of experiences within it.