How to Train to Be a Welding Engineer

Becoming a welding engineer requires not only on-the-job training but also significant formal education as well as skill-building and information-gathering through opportunities such as internships. Welding engineers are responsible for both the actual performance of welds as well as the planning involved on various types of equipment including centrifugal compressors and steam turbines. Welding engineers' manufacturing processes impact approximately 50 percent of the products and equipment manufactured in the United States, according to the Ohio State University Welding Engineering Program.

• 1

  Attend and graduate a four-year university that offers a bachelor of science degree in welding engineering or a related field. Prior to enrolling, check to see if the program's curriculum is endorsed by either the American Welding Society (AWS) or the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) for best results.

• 2

  Join a professional welding association such as the American Welding Society (AWS). Professional associations can assist you when searching for employment and internship opportunities after you have graduated from college. This will also aid in your ability to create a network of professional peers and will also help you prepare for certification once you have sufficient training hours completed.

• 3

  Seek advice from an academic adviser in the welding department about entry-level welding engineer jobs in the local area, search the AWS for entry-level positions and create a resume. Include all of your education and welding experience on your resume, including any internships or extracurricular studies related to the field. Secure an entry-level position as a welding engineer.

• 4

  Get certified through the AWS in order to boost your professional clout within the welding community and increase your earning potential. Choose one of the two certification options--Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or Certified Welding Engineer(CWI)--and begin the application process. Find a testing location for the certifying exams. The specifics regarding the application process, requirements and application fees can be found at the AWS website.