From Welder to CWI

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I got the results Friday that I passed my test... I didn't know they send you an email on the AWS website with your scores! I was nervous I did so poorly. I knew I KILLED on Part C, but the rest I was nervous about.I took the test in Chicago on Sunday Aug 10 (My birthday was the 11th!). I spent 8-9 hours test taking, then drove 10 hours back to Buffalo (and a time zone change) to get an hour of sleep before work the following day.I took the seminar, however in the confirmation letter I didn't notice there were attachments and it said to bring highlighters and tabs and stuff... so I came empty handed. Everyone else was tabbing their code books during the seminar. I just made a mental note. However, the code portion was incredibly easy. I did API 1104, there's quite a bit of Natural Gas pipeline work going on in Buffalo so I thought I might be able to get in on it. My intention is to next take ASME since all of my welding career has revolved around it.Part A: 87%Part B: 85%Part C: 97%  (2 wrong)What did you other welder turned CWIs do?I've 6 years of welding under my belt, no QC experience. I'm wondering if I should take a QC position in a welding company to get my feet wet or jump right in to an inspection firm. I'd really like to convince someone to help get me some Level II NDT certifications. What's the next big step?
Reply:Don't about the career stuff since we are in different regions, but congrats on passing the exam. I was in the same session with you and passed as well. Don't have my scores yet but thought the test was pretty easy.EXO Fabrication, Inc.www.exofabrication.com
Reply:uou will be suprised how little a CWI will make compared to a welder.  Been under the hood for 23 years and got my CWI 6 yrs ago. The money is still good but I had only one job the paid better than if I was welding.sent while goofing off at workLong after the price is forgotten, the quality will remain.Both of my Poppy's 1954 Short Hoods -Third generation to weld with it and teaching a fourthSA 2## - Bought and sold more than I can remember or care to list, 8 in the shop right now