With graduation just around the corner, many young Arizonans are starting to feel the pressure of the question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?”
It is estimated there will be 155,000 open jobs in the state by 2022. Of these open jobs, welding is one of the most sought-after professions. Still, many young people lack the information they need to enter this career path.
This article provides information on welding careers, local training programs, and available scholarships for recent college graduates looking to enter the profession.
Welders are highly skilled professionals who specialize in joining metal objects together using heat and pressure. Their services are crucial to new constructions as well as ongoing maintenance of some of our state’s most important buildings.
A welder in Arizona earns an average salary of $43,202 per year. This number rises with experience and additional training. Very experienced welders can earn salaries in the six figures.
As with any skilled professional, welders are required to meet minimum training requirements. Training options can include a certificate program, an associate degree, or a bachelor’s degree in the field. Most training can be completed in 6-12 months.
Study Welding Technology at Mesa Community College
Location: 1833 W. Southern Ave., Mesa, AZ 85202
Contact: Curtis Casey, 480-461-7131 | curtis.casey@mesacc.edu
More information: mesacc.edu/programs/welding-technology
Study Welding at Gateway Community College in Central City
Location: 1245 East Buckeye Road., Phoenix, AZ 85034
Contact: Gateway Community College, 623-238-4350
More information: www.gatewaycc.edu
Highschool Level Training Programs
Study Welding at WestMEC in Glendale or Verrado
Locations: 500 N. Verrado Way, Buckeye, AZ 85027
6997 N. Glen Harbor Blvd., Glendale, AZ 85307
Contact: Katie Mehin, 623-872-6260 | Katie.Mehin@west-mec.org
More information: west-mec.edu
Students who need assistance paying for training programs can apply for industry scholarships. In addition to applying for scholarships, college students should apply for federal aid by filling out a free FAFSA application every semester.
AGC Workforce Development Scholarship
Amount: $1,000, renewable for up to two years.
Deadline: June 1st, 2020
Click here to apply.
American Welding Society Scholarships
Amount: $1,000-$2,500
Deadline: Yearly, on March 1st
Click here to apply for next year.
A career path in welding is a smart choice for graduates who wish to learn a new skill, work with their hands, and earn a high salary. Arizona education programs offer affordable training options for future welders. Additional scholarships and grants are available to make it even easier to pay for these programs.
Who knows how many Arizona graduates will be able to follow a career path in welding, if given the right tools?