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A quick peek in the future shows great potential for the welders of tomorrow. The next 5-10 years are promising for students interested in earning a welding certificate. However, talking about the future of welding brings up interesting discussion around automation and the role robotics will play in the welding industry.
Will Robots Take Over Your Job?
As with many of America's skilled trades, there appears to be a shortage of welders in comparison to workload. Many experienced welding professionals are retiring at what seems like a faster rate than before, with fewer new welders ready to take their place. Companies are turning toward automation in an effort to increase productivity and provide an answer to a potential shortage.
Robotic automation will be part of many industries in the coming years, but to what extent? As far as welding is concerned, an increase in productivity drives an increase in the corporate bottom line, allowing room for growth. It would be ideal for you to receive training in the area of robotic welding, as companies are going to need experts to lead the process. In order to tell the robot what it needs to do, the operator must be well-trained with a solid knowledge of welding techniques. Adding this to your resume will only make you more competitive as a welding professional.
The Industries Need You
Even with automation now and in the future, welders have the opportunity to work in all sorts of different fields. Industries including construction, military, and automotive all have a need for qualified and skilled welding professionals.
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for skilled welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers is projected to grow 8% percent through 2030, adding approximately 34,100 skilled welders to the trade.
It's No Contest — Humans Win
If you want to go into welding, then don’t let anything stop you from that. The career has been around for literally thousands of years; it will be there for you too. Get into a welding school now and add on areas of expertise as you go. You won’t have to worry about losing your prime position to automation if you have the right skills!
Further reading: Welding Career … Education, Training, Jobs and Salary
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