Welding is a vital profession that supports infrastructure, manufacturing, and safety around the world.
Welders are skilled specialists who work with metal, often in high-heat, high-pressure environments that require precision and focus.
They use various welding techniques and must understand metal preparation, safety protocols, and blueprint reading.
Most welders start with a high school diploma or GED, followed by vocational training or certification.
The average salary for a welder in the U.S. is around $43,000 per year.
In a special "Career Callout," the owners of DDT Welding and Fabrication shared insights into their journey.
Dez Ingram, a foreman and co-owner, trained at Lakeland Community College and started as a travel welder building fuel storage tanks.
Co-Owner Tanterruous Johnson loves the satisfaction of being trusted with challenging jobs and the hands-on nature of the work.
Welders commonly work with carbon steel, aluminum, and stainless steel, using extreme heat—sometimes up to 9,000°F—to fuse metals.
As they explained, welding is like working near lava, making safety and skill critical to success.
Career Callouts featured in NewsDepth are funded by the Ohio Broadcast Media Commission.