Metal forming, fabricating, welding, and finishing. Torch kits, plasma cutters, and auto-darkening welding helmets. Do these unique skills and tools of the welding trade appeal to you? Here's why YOU should become a welder:

You are a problem-solver who likes to work with your hands.

Welders are problem solvers! They rely on eye-hand coordination to cut and join metal using a variety of techniques and processes. Projects often begin with a blueprint that welders interpret and execute with precision and accuracy. Some projects find a welder using their creativity and ingenuity to work out a solution.

You want a skilled trades career that is in demand.

From aerospace applications to bridge construction, today's welders land careers in a wide variety of industries! According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 47,600 openings for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Entry level welders are often hired for positions that carry titles such as MIG welder, TIG welder, fabricator/welder, sheet metal worker, steelworker, pipefitter, or auto body welder.

You're ready to start your professional career.

Whether you're entering the workforce for the first time or are planning a career change, you're ready to experience professional success! Working in the skilled trades feels like more than just a job as these careers are essential in your community and across the nation. And they come with earning potential-the annual mean wage of welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers in the state of Connecticut, May 2021, was $55,530. Your success as a professional relies on the decisions that you make today!

If you're a hands-on learner who would rather be under a welder's hood than stuck behind a desk all day, the Welding program at Porter and Chester Institute can train you to enter the workforce in as few as 10 months. We alternate in-person classroom learning with hands-on work where you get to use the same equipment and tools you'll find out in the field. You'll become familiar with a variety of welding machines, virtual welding simulators, plasma cutters, acetylene and oxygen torch kits, and protective gear. Fill out our form to request more information or apply online to get started!