is off shore welding for me?

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So I just completed an intensive welding course at my local community college. I got a state certification to weld 3g 1/8th inch steel with 1/8" 7018 rod(SMAW). (The state cert follows the same guidlines as AWS) My instructor is good enough to allow me to go in later this week and try for my 3g and 4g unlimited thickness with 7018. Im fairly confident that I will pass. Besides that I have limited dualshield and hardwire experience and am fairly competant with an oxyfuel torch, scarfing torch, and air carbon arc gouger. That being said my real question is how to get into offshore welding? My brother works for a company based out of calgary alberta and Ive heard a lot about working on a rig offshore, and I think I would enjoy the perks off working off shore and could also deal with some of the less pleasant parts of the job. The problem is, although I got my little sate cert Im still an entry level welder. Im wondering if anyone could give some advice as to how to break into offshore welding. Ive heard a few people say "work in the galley untill a position opens up" but that doesnt really sound too fun. i hate food service....any advice?
Reply:I worked offshore on a platform and it was an "OK" job. I had to start out roughnecking until a mechanics job came up, and I had 11 years in as a rig and equipment mechanic. Lucky for me I had roughnecked on land, or I wouldnt even got that. If you can work like h** for hours on end when something big breaks in addition to all your normal work, dont mind terrible weather (hot or cold) and dont mind living in tight quarters with a lot of men it could be for you. There will be times when you will have to make up stuff to do also. I really never saw any weldors that were "green" on the rig, they were all seasoned and darn good at their job. I worked in the Gulf Of Mexico and it was hot. The prevailing 35-40 MPH wind felt like a colassal hair dryer blowing on you. Set your goals high and work hard, and you will be rewarded..............................."Look Good Doing It"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Reply:There is money to be made offshore. Buttttttt! It's not for everyone!THE OLDER I GET! THE  SMARTER MY DAD WAS!Thermal Arc 185 inverter Tig welderABITIG 26  tig torchLotus foot pedalLincoln 225 stick welderClark 185SG Mig spoolgunwelderVictor torch/regulatorsHF36" shear,bender,roller.