I learned to weld thru an apprenticeship. I learned about the opportunity thru word of mouth. I took a test and was accepted. It was a Union trade so I did go thru a 5 year apprenticeship. I went to school 1 day every 2 weeks.. during that time I worked on construction sites doing HVAC industrial installation. I got paid to work and go to school. I also had to sign school loan agreements so that when I became a journeyman, I didn't go out and work non union. If I did, I would have to pay for my training. 1/2 the training I received was welding. It's a long road to being a journeyman but everyone pays their dues and goes thru the same thing.
You can take welding classes at a community college and pay for them. It's not a bad idea to go to a few union halls and inquire if they are taking applications for apprentices. Also, go to a few construction sites or shops and ask. If anything, they can let you know what's available or where to go.
After, 4:00, check a few bars for people in carharts, with colorful headgear that look like they've been out in the sun all day, totally exhausted from work. Buy them a beer and they'll tell you what's available. It's hard work, but the pay is excellent.
Don't worry about your age. I'm alot older than you when I started the apprenticeship, I'm female and I love the work.
I learned about the opportunity thru word of mouth.
I took a test and was accepted.
It was a Union trade so I did go thru a 5 year apprenticeship.
I went to school 1 day every 2 weeks.. during that time I worked on construction sites doing HVAC industrial installation.
I got paid to work and go to school. I also had to sign school loan agreements so that when I became a journeyman, I didn't go out and work non union. If I did, I would have to pay for my training. 1/2 the training I received was welding.
It's a long road to being a journeyman but everyone pays their dues and goes thru the same thing.
You can take welding classes at a community college and pay for them. It's not a bad idea to go to a few union halls and inquire if they are taking applications for apprentices.
Also, go to a few construction sites or shops and ask.
If anything, they can let you know what's available or where to go.
After, 4:00, check a few bars for people in carharts, with colorful headgear that look like they've been out in the sun all day, totally exhausted from work. Buy them a beer and they'll tell you what's available.
It's hard work, but the pay is excellent.
Don't worry about your age.
I'm alot older than you when I started the apprenticeship,
I'm female and I love the work.
Good Luck and don't give up.
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