Why Get an Associate’s Degree in Welding Technology?

An Associate’s degree in Welding Technology can open up exciting career. This sort of degree could give you the groundwork to succeed as a quality assurance inspector.

Quality Assurance Inspector Career

A quality assurance inspector conducts thorough visual inspections of welds to determine whether welded steel pieces conform to codes and industry standards. Additionally, welding inspectors must test welded pieces thoroughly for possible defects and to be familiar with different methods of testing. The average annual income for a certified welding inspector was $61,000 as of 2013. ¹

What Is an Associate’s Degree in Welding Technology?

After receiving professional welding training, some students may want to pursue a welding technology associate’s degree. Students enrolled in this program learn additional skills in the following:

• Metallurgy
• Quality control
• Leak testing
• Nondestructive testing
• Magnetic particle testing
• Ultrasonic testing
• Radiographic film interpretation
• Fabrication processes

The goal of the welding technology degree program is to give students the well-rounded understanding they’ll need for success in a variety of roles, including both welding and welding inspection. Hands-on learning is emphasized, with students receiving some classroom instruction  and practicing welding in real-world environments. In addition to learning essential welding techniques, students enrolled in the Associates program can gain leadership skills that can be implemented in construction sites, shipyards, and manufacturing plants.

Is a Welding Technology Associate’s Degree Right For Me?

Although an introductory welding program can give you a basic exposure to welding processes, you may eventually want to expand your knowledge if you hope to move on to higher level positions such as welding inspection. Getting addition training can give you a competitive advantage over other applicants when looking for a job. Employers in the welding industry are eager to hire highly skilled professionals who have undergone a training or credentialing program. ² The more you know about testing methods and industry regulations, the better equipped you’ll be to land the job.

Considering Your Career Options

If you’re looking to expand your educational credentials, an Associate’s degree in Welding Technology could be a good choice. A welding technology degree demonstrates to potential employers that you possess a thorough understanding of fundamental welding concepts, as well as the leadership skills required for upper-level positions in welding inspection.