Pull on PPE, scan the blueprint, confirm today's weld specs.
Grind, wire-brush, and clamp metal parts until they're arc-ready.
Strike the arc and run beads — adjusting heat and speed on the fly.
Check each weld for cracks or gaps; grind out anything that doesn't pass.
Switch to TIG for tight, precision work where MIG won't cut it.
Troubleshoot a wire-feed issue before it kills the afternoon's output.
Back on the torch — knock out the remaining joints on the assembly.
Walk the finished piece, mark any rework, sign off on quality.
Shut down machines, clear slag, store gear safely for next shift.
- Fuse metal pieces together using a welding torch or gun.
- Read blueprints and welding diagrams to plan each job.
- Grind, clean, and clamp metal parts before striking an arc.
- Choose the right welding method — MIG, TIG, or stick — for the material.
- Inspect finished welds for cracks, gaps, or weak spots.
- Is this weld strong enough to pass, or do I need to grind it out and redo it?
- Should I adjust my heat and speed now, or will this joint hold as-is?
- Is this metal clean enough to weld, or do I need to prep it more?
- Does this blueprint call for what I think it does, or am I misreading the symbol?
- Is this workspace safe enough to strike an arc right now?
People usually reach this work through experience rather than a college program.
Explore more colleges →Fabricators are skilled tradespeople who create, assemble, and repair metal structures and products. They work with various materials including steel, aluminum, and other metals to build everything from architectural components to industrial machinery parts. Fabricators combine technical skills with hands-on craftsmanship to transform raw materials into finished products.
Mechanics are skilled professionals responsible for diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining vehicles, machinery, and equipment. They play a crucial role in ensuring that cars, trucks, and other mechanical systems operate safely and efficiently. Mechanics often specialize in specific areas, such as automotive repair, diesel engines, or heavy equipment, and use a combination of technical expertise, diagnostic tools, and physical labor to complete their work.
A Mason is a skilled tradesperson who constructs, repairs, and restores structures using materials such as bricks, stones, concrete blocks, and mortar. They play a critical role in building durable and aesthetically pleasing structures, ranging from homes and commercial buildings to bridges and monuments.
