17 Anything i can do?

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well im 17, ive been welding for about 2 years now,  learning everything i can, taken 2 years of autobody/welding classes in my vocational school.Is there any type of Maybe Jr welding program, or anything i can do like that at the age of 17?
Reply:VICA is a good place to get you some exposure to the industry while in school.  I went to a votech highschool also and we had annual state-level competitions in all types of industrial fields.  If you're good, you can even go to national competitions.  It's like a big conference for kids in the vocational arts.  If you don't already know this, VICA stands for Vocational Industrial Clubs of America.  They were big here in GA when I was a highschooler.  I tried to find you some info online but I cant find much other than info on individual high schools clubs.Smithboy...if it ain't broke, you ain't tryin'.
Reply:Keep welding to improve your hands-on skills while you research online and with books etc.  Find a school of interest where you can learn the fundamentals and understand what is going on beneath the arc.   Also, this will hopefully steer you away from bad habits formed from lack of knowledge or understanding.  Welding is an awsome hobby or career, and best of all, you get paid for having fun. MIG is relatively easy, but the real fun is old school...stick welding. There is so much to learn, we'll never know it all.
Reply:another questionMy dad just got his black seal for operating engineers, and he wants to become a certified welderWhat type of tests are there to become certified?
Reply:Blacksheep, there are a variety of test that he can take.  it depends on what area he wants to certify in.   I would suggest going to  www.asw.org  it has all the certification info that you would be looking for.   Have fun.  ~JacksonI'm a Lover, Fighter, Wild horse Rider, and a pretty good welding man......
Reply:If you are in school don't sell math short.  I fabricate for a living and trigonometry is essential for me.  Notice also that your Dad has one qualification and looking for another.  People that have welding plus another skill are much sought after.