When we think of welding, we typically envision sparks flying in a workshop as a welder fuses metal components together. However, the welding and materials joining field extends far beyond this perception and requires diverse skill sets for various innovative applications.
Countless career opportunities exist for welders, and they encompass various interests alongside new and emerging ways to weld and join, using innovative technologies such as robotics and remote welding devices.
Ironworking
Ironworkers fabricate structural components, such as beams, columns, and trusses, then transport and install them while meticulously following blueprints and engineering specifications. These units create the skeletal frameworks for structures such as skyscrapers, bridges, and industrial facilities. They operate heavy machinery and cranes to move components into position and use various welding techniques to fuse them together safely.
Welding in Military Applications
Welders in military service may manufacture military hardware, including armoured vehicles, weapon systems, and communication equipment, and perform field repairs. Shipbuilding, aircraft maintenance and infrastructure support are also essential components of being a welder in the military, making this an incredibly diverse industry to be a part of.
Underwater Welding
Underwater welding combines welding expertise with diving skills to repair and maintain submerged structures. This demanding career requires specialized training and safety protocols. Underwater welders play a critical role in industries like oil and gas, shipping, and coastal construction, with high earning potential due to the job’s risks and specialized skills.
Nuclear Welding
Nuclear welding combines welding skills with nuclear science to ensure the structural integrity of nuclear facilities. This specialized field demands extensive training and regulatory oversight to manage the effects of radiation and high-pressure environments. Nuclear welders are crucial for clean energy production, scientific research, and safe waste management.
Materials Joining Research
Materials joining research drives innovation in the welding industry, exploring new techniques and materials to create stronger, more efficient connections. This research is vital across multiple industries, including aerospace, automotive, and renewable energy, and involves collaboration among materials scientists, engineers, and physicists.
Collaborative Robotics (Cobots)
Robotic welding, or cobot welding, integrates advanced technology with traditional welding principles, enabling precision and efficiency in complex tasks. Cobots perform repetitive functions, allowing human welders to focus on higher-level tasks. This technology enhances safety and expands the welding workforce by making high-risk operations more manageable.
Tele-welding
Tele-welding allows welders to operate robotic systems from a distance, providing precision and safety in challenging environments. This technology broadens the welding labour pool and offers opportunities for individuals with physical limitations or geographical constraints.
The Future of Welding
With over 115,000 new journeypersons needed in the largest Red Seal trades over the next five years, the demand for skilled trades is more crucial than ever. Recent data from the CWB Group reveals a 25 per cent decline in the number of welders in North America between 2012 and 2021, opening the door to exciting and in-demand career opportunities.
A transformative shift towards greater automation and digitalization is set to shake up the future of welding, but it still requires the human expertise and mastery it always has. These technologies are evolving to make welding processes more accessible, ensuring that welders remain vital to modern manufacturing.
It is important that today’s welding students are exposed to innovative technologies such as tele-welding, cobots, and robotics so the welders of tomorrow can enter the workforce with the appropriate technical skills and confidence.
Whether you’re new to welding or an experienced professional, visit cwbweldingfoundation.org to learn about our welding programs, initiatives, and student awards.
