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Skills that raise your rate

• More welding processes

  MIG (metal inert gas) wire welding is the shop standard. Adding TIG (tungsten inert gas) for stainless and aluminum makes you rarer.

• CNC (computer numerical control) plasma and laser programming

  Somebody has to nest the parts on the plate and run the table. That person is usually the best paid on the floor.

• Certified Welding Inspector

  A credential from the American Welding Society. Better hours, better pay, less grinding.

• Blueprint reading and estimating

  Quoting jobs accurately is a rare skill and the step towards running a shop.