Choosing a career path is never easy, so during the last year we’ve been breaking down all of the options the welding industry has to offer to help you determine what path is right for you. This month we’ve looked at the responsibilities required of a Certified Welding Supervisor. The series continues as American Welding Learning speaks to certification expert and 30-year industry veteran Jackie Morris to find out exactly why you should consider taking on those responsibilities.

Demand: A good Certified Welding Supervisor can have a significant positive impact on a company’s productivity, safety, and quality control. That means demand is high among business owners to hire them. Given how competitive the job market is now, getting certified is quickly becoming one of your best options for increasing employment opportunities and earnings.

Salary: Speaking of earnings. Certified Welding Inspectors can make anywhere between $40,000 and $100,000 a year. Sure, a CWS has more responsibility than the average employee, but that extra responsibility usually comes with a larger paycheck.

Incentive Bonuses: Quality is essential in any facet of the manufacturing industry. As a CWS, you’ll be the first line of defense against falling standards. Many employers will encourage you to work hard at raising those standards by offering lucrative incentive bonuses.

Travel: One of the best parts of being a CWS is the opportunity to travel. Not all supervisor jobs will have you on the move, so don’t be deterred if you prefer to stay grounded. However, travel is definitely a perk for those who have always wanted to see more of the country and meet new people.

Networking: Sometimes new opportunities are more a matter of who you know, rather than what you know. The duties of a CWS often provide occasions to meet colleagues in other fields and industries. Even certification training is an excellent place to make connections with other professionals.

So if you’re looking for a competitive edge in the job market, seeking to expand your skill set, or just want a job with good pay and lots of opportunity for networking and travel, becoming a CWS may be right for you. Join us next week when our special guest Jackie Morris shows us just why CWS are so important to the welding industry.

Source: American Welding Society