Underwater Welding Training
Individuals looking for an exciting career might consider underwater welding training. Welder/divers usually acquire certifications in commercial diving and welding skills. Individuals having no experience in diving or welding may attend specialized training schools.
The intense underwater welding training programs cover an extensive amount of material, which upon completion, qualifies students for application of a number of certifications in commercial diving and welding.
Underwater welding professionals generally perform inspections, repair and support services for a number of different construction or industrial companies. Some training facilities also offer job placement after graduation.
Underwater Welding Training
A selection of coastal U.S. states, and some European countries, offer combined training programs offering instruction in commercial diving and underwater welding. Programs typically last 20 to 28 weeks and provide on or off campus housing and meals. Some schools provide all of the necessary commercial diving gear and others facilities require students purchase personal equipment.
These schools typically provide information concerning acceptable or required gear. Prospective students must be at least 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or GED, and must be able to pass a diving physical. Students should also know how to swim, be willing to work hard and posses an aptitude for mechanics. Previous scuba diving or welding experience is not required, but individuals having such experience are welcome.
Prior to donning a wet suit and entering the water, students receive classroom instruction pertaining to the physics of diving and familiarization with diving equipment. Individuals gain experience working with communication systems commonly used by underwater welders.
Underwater welding training also entails learning about dive medicine and hyperbaric chambers. Students obtain classroom and practical hands on experience in dealing with possible underwater emergency situations. Dive training begins in monitored indoor tanks and progresses to open waters at variable depths.
Students enrolled in underwater welding training learn ground level and underwater metal arc welding techniques. Instruction also includes working with the hand and power tools commonly used by underwater welders. Individuals gain knowledge pertaining to construction techniques while receiving practical experience with cutting, fitting and installation. Students learn the required skills for performing underwater inspections, searches and varied types of testing. Some facilities additionally provide training in dealing with explosives, hazardous and nuclear materials. Certain schools also offer advanced courses in commercial diving or underwater welding.
After completing underwater welding training, individuals may look into any number of offshore or onshore employment options. Wages vary with experience and specific job contracts. Graduates might work on offshore rigs or in harbors, repairing ships or other structures. Seaside vacation resorts and cruise lines also often employ underwater welding experts. Construction opportunities might include building or repairing bridges or dams. As divers progress in experience, underwater welding training may eventually include drafting, pre-job planning, and other duties required by construction contractors.
Category: Training, Underwater Welding Schools
