Step By Step Guide To Become A Welder In Kansas 2025
Step 1: Understand the Role of a Welder in Kansas
A welder in Kansas primarily works with metals, joining them through welding processes. Kansas industries, including construction, manufacturing, and repair services, heavily rely on skilled welders. The most commonly used welding methods are MIG, TIG, and Stick welding. Understanding these will be crucial when pursuing a career as a welder in the state.
Step 2: Complete High School Education or GED
Potential welders in Kansas must have at least a high school diploma or GED. High school courses in math, physics, and shop classes can provide foundational skills beneficial for welding.
Step 3: Enroll in a Welding Program
Kansas offers various educational avenues to become a welder:
- Technical Colleges: Enroll in programs such as those offered at Wichita Area Technical College or Johnson County Community College, which provide hands-on training and theoretical knowledge.
- Community Colleges: Schools like Kansas City Kansas Community College provide associate degrees in welding technology.
- Apprenticeships: Consider apprenticeship opportunities as they offer on-the-job training. They last approximately 3-4 years and combine working with experienced welders while attending lessons.
Step 4: Obtain Certification
In Kansas, certification is not mandatory but highly recommended for career advancement. The American Welding Society (AWS) certification is the standard:
- Certified Welder (CW): Candidates must pass a performance-based welding exam conducted at an AWS-Accredited Testing Facility.
- Visit AWS Certification Page for more details.
Step 5: Gain Work Experience
Begin working in entry-level positions to gain practical experience. This could involve assisting experienced welders or working on projects where you can apply your skills.
Step 6: Meet State Regulations and Licensing Requirements
While Kansas doesn’t require a state-specific welding license, compliance with OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) safety standards is mandatory. All welders must ensure they follow these guidelines rigorously.
Refer to the Kansas Department of Labor for more information on workplace safety regulations.
Step 7: Continue Education and Specialize
Welders can advance their careers by specializing in areas like:
- Pipe Welding
- Underwater Welding
- Structural Welding
Consider further certifications for these specializations to enhance skills and employability.
Step 8: Join Professional Associations
Engage with professional bodies to network and keep updated with industry trends:
- Join the American Welding Society.
- Participate in local welding workshops and events.
Step 9: Apply for Welding Jobs in Kansas
Start your job search by targeting industries commonly in demand for welders. Use platforms like KANSASWORKS to find welding job listings and opportunities tailored to your skills and certifications. Networking with local industry players also helps in finding job openings.
By following these steps, prospective welders can build a successful career in Kansas through the acquisition of skills, certifications, and real-world experience pertinent to the welding profession.