Would it be beneficial?

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I’ve been welding on my own for about 10 months.   I’ve done stick, flux core, and have a machine that is multi-process, and will do aluminum, tig, stick, mig,etc.  I got a mailing from our local technical college, and it is offering a course for what I think is a reasonable price…do you think it would be highly advantageous to take it, or just mildly beneficial?   They do offer some certifications connected to this program, but I’m beginning my welding near retirement, and probably would only do some repairs and light fabrication as a side hustle, and not sure if certification would help?  Would love to hear your perspective, especially if you do welding/fabrication for a living.
Reply:If you can swing it within your work schedule, why not.  The more you learn the better.  It's good that you have been welding for a while...  because you can decipher what works for you and what doesn't....In other words, there is a lot of personal opinion that goes into some educators.  It's either their way or the highway.  I say go for it and learn all you can.  Actually the neighbor kid when I was growing up after high school took a night course at a technical school. He ended getting a union job and the rest is history.  Best of luck.Miller 211Hypertherm PM 451961 Lincoln Idealarc 250HTP 221  True Wisdom only comes from Pain.
Reply:Certifications do help get more jobs in new construction .Remember you can cert without any school it is just test to see it you are a good welder.Dave

Originally Posted by metalmelter2021

I’ve been welding on my own for about 10 months.   I’ve done stick, flux core, and have a machine that is multi-process, and will do aluminum, tig, stick, mig,etc.  I got a mailing from our local technical college, and it is offering a course for what I think is a reasonable price…do you think it would be highly advantageous to take it, or just mildly beneficial?   They do offer some certifications connected to this program, but I’m beginning my welding near retirement, and probably would only do some repairs and light fabrication as a side hustle, and not sure if certification would help?  Would love to hear your perspective, especially if you do welding/fabrication for a living.
Reply:You won't get any usable "certifications" from a technical school night course.  But like I said, you will gain knowledge.Miller 211Hypertherm PM 451961 Lincoln Idealarc 250HTP 221  True Wisdom only comes from Pain.
Reply:I agree.It test given by by a state or a company licensed by state for cert in construction.  Dave

Originally Posted by John T

You won't get any usable "certifications" from a technical school night course.  But like I said, you will gain knowledge.
Reply:Most likely you will get much more than the cost of tuition in material and consumables. I took a similar course when I started and helped correct/avoid bad habits from self taught. I highly recommend you spend the time and money. My 74 year old friend just finished auditing a 5 month class and he has made great progress in his welding proficiency.Burt _____________________Miller Syncrowave 250Millermatic 211Miller 375 Plasma Cutter Hobart Handler 120www.10FtDrillBit.comwww.MyWelds.com - pictures of my work
Reply:

Originally Posted by wb4rt

I took a similar course when I started and helped correct/avoid bad habits from self taught.
Reply:A school does help if you need a school.All data you get from schools are in books 📚.  But you do need to to get educated on welding and most get from schools 🏫. Dave

Originally Posted by wb4rt

Most likely you will get much more than the cost of tuition in material and consumables. I took a similar course when I started and helped correct/avoid bad habits from self taught. I highly recommend you spend the time and money. My 74 year old friend just finished auditing a 5 month class and he has made great progress in his welding proficiency.