New to the welding job market

admin

Hey guys I've never posted on the forum before but I'm always on looking at pics and getting tips. I'm currently just about to finish my schooling up here in New Jersey and am looking at jobs down south welding heavy structural plate. I guess my question is if there are any companies that take entry welders in and allow them to be apprentices. I am AWS d1.1 certified in structural plate. Any comments or suggestions would help. All the big jobs seem to be going on down south so thats where I'm kinda looking. Thanks guys
Reply:I'd suggest staying for pipe...if it's offered. Or if it's a possibility for you.Job market is incredibly tough for someone just breaking into "just" d1.1.  You'd have your best luck in the shippyards IMO. Either those down south such as in Mobile or those nearer you in VA.  You can get on the Union list as an Ironworker and might get lucky enough to get on.Your looking in the correct direction by asking for an apprenticeship. There was a gentleman on here not long ago that posted an add for an "apprentice" for his company in addition to other open positions. Might be right up your alley.GL1981 Lincoln SA 200Miller Trailblazer 302gMiller 211 Mig Welder w/ AutosetI'm learning to stick metal together
Reply:Yea well I've been doing open root and some pipe lately but I'm not gunna have enough time to get my cert. in pipe but at least I'll know how to do it. Yea I figured working with a company that would take apprentices would be my best bet. I come from a union family and tried getting into one of the locals up here but didn't get in. It kinda sucks I guess I'm going to just have to try and get as much experience as I can before I move down south.