How to choose the right robot welding training program for you

Welders are an integral part of the manufacturing workforce today. As more and more welding becomes automated, it is necessary for these welders to be trained to operate welding robots, instead of just learning the skills of welding itself. There are many different paths someone can take to obtain the welding robot training needed to become successful in the industry.

There are several places where a welder can train to use welding torches, as well as robots, to complete a welding application. According to Education-Portal.com, community, technical colleges and universities throughout the United States are now offering certificates and even degree programs for welding technology tracks that include courses in robotics.

But, how do you choose which robotic welding training program is right for you? Is it better to get a certificate or a diploma? First off, it is good to know that many companies are looking for welders that have hands-on experience with welding and using robotics. So make sure that the program has hands-on and lab components that give you that experience.

A certificate only requires around 30 credit hours of work, so it is the shortest way to welding certification. After the program is completed, welders take a certification exam through the American Welding Society. These welding technology programs often look at fabrication, blueprints and other welding techniques helpful to the welder.

Welders who are looking for a more in-depth training program for robot welding can turn to a technical college or university for their associate and bachelor degree programs. These students will take classes in safety practices, as well as technical math and applied sciences to better prepare them for the welding world. Those who end up with a bachelor’s degree usually have a Bachelor of Science in Welding Engineering Technology at the end of their school career.

There are many different factors when looking into these programs. People have to consider how much time they want to dedicate to a welding robotics training program. If they want to dedicate a year, they could choose the certificate program. Those getting the bachelor’s degree would be most likely dedicating four years of their life to training. Money is another factor, with a certificate program costing significantly less than a bachelor’s degree. But, there may be grants and other funding available for those who decide on a bachelor’s degree.

Where do you go once you complete your certificate or degree? Well, you can work for a robotics company, a manufacturer who deals with welding automation or a robotics supplier like Robots.com. Robots.com expects its technicians and engineers to be highly trained in welding robotics, as well as other robotic applications.

Robots.com, a supplier for Fanuc, Motoman, ABB, and KUKA, works with companies all over the United States to create the best welding robot systems and cells available. For more information about Robots.com, contact us online or at 877-762-6881.