9 Promising Career Paths After Graduating from Workshops for Warriors
Workshops for Warriors provides accelerated training programs in welding and CNC machining, equipping veterans and transitioning service members with nationally recognized credentials and certifications in advanced manufacturing.
WFW graduates have a wealth of opportunities available to them in various industries across the United States. In this post, we explore nine promising career paths for individuals who have successfully graduated from Workshops for Warriors.
1. Manufacturing Technician
Manufacturing technicians play a crucial role in the production process. Graduates with certifications in welding or CNC machining can pursue careers as technicians in manufacturing facilities, assisting with equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, and ensuring smooth operations on the shop floor. The average starting salary for a manufacturing technician is around $45,000 to $64,000 per year, according to Salary.com. Salary may vary based on the specific industry and location.
2. Welding Fabricator
Welding fabricators bring blueprints and designs to life by welding together metal components to create structures or products. Graduates with strong welding skills can find employment in fabrication shops, construction companies, or manufacturing firms, working on diverse projects ranging from architectural structures to industrial machinery. The average starting salary for a welding fabricator is approximately $35,000 to $55,000 per year, according to the American Welding Society. This can vary depending on factors such as experience, location and industry.
3. CNC Machinist
As skilled CNC machinists, graduates can operate and maintain computer-controlled machines used for precision machining. These professionals work with various materials, producing intricate components and parts for industries such as aerospace, medical devices, and automotive. CNC machinists earn an average starting salary of $41,000 to $63,500 per year, according to ZipRecruiter. Salaries can vary based on factors such as experience, location and the complexity of the machining tasks.
4. Quality Control Inspector
Quality control inspectors are responsible for ensuring that finished products meet specified quality standards. Graduates with welding or CNC machining certifications can pursue this career path, conducting inspections, performing tests, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. The average starting salary for a quality control inspector is around $41,000 to $57,000 per year, according to Salary.com. Salary can vary depending on industry, location and level of experience.
5. Welding Inspector
With their expertise in welding techniques and industry standards, Workshops for Warriors graduates can pursue a career as a welding inspector. These professionals ensure that welding procedures and practices meet safety regulations and quality standards in industries such as construction, manufacturing and infrastructure. The average starting salary for a welding inspector is around $50,000 to $65,000 per year, depending on location and experience, according to the American Welding Society. With additional certifications and experience, this salary can increase significantly.
6. CNC Programmer
Computer Numerical Control (CNC) programmers are in high demand across industries like aerospace, automotive and engineering. Graduates proficient in CNC machining can leverage their skills to program and operate CNC machines, translating design specifications into precise machining instructions. The average starting salary for a CNC programmer is approximately $51,000 to $74,000 per year, according to Glassdoor. Experienced programmers or those working in specialized industries may earn higher salaries.
7. Welding Instructor
Passionate graduates who enjoy sharing their knowledge and skills can explore a career in teaching. They can become welding instructors, training the next generation of welders, and helping them develop the necessary techniques, safety practices, and industry knowledge. Welding instructors can earn an average starting salary of $45,000 to $60,000 per year, according to the American Welding Society. Salaries may vary depending on the educational institution, location and level of experience.
8. Welding Engineer
For those interested in the technical aspects of welding, a career as a welding engineer offers exciting opportunities. Welding engineers design and develop welding processes, assess weld quality, and provide expertise in areas such as metallurgy, materials science and welding automation. Welding engineers typically earn an average starting salary of $65,000 to $80,000 per year, according to the American Welding Society. As they gain more experience and expertise, their earning potential can increase substantially.
9. Entrepreneurship
Graduates who aspire to be their own boss can explore entrepreneurship opportunities in welding or CNC machining. With their specialized skills and credentials, they can establish their own welding or machining businesses, providing services to industries, contractors or individuals.
Graduating from Workshops for Warriors with nationally recognized credentials or certifications in welding or CNC machining opens up a world of exciting career opportunities for veterans and transitioning service members.
From becoming welding inspectors and CNC programmers to pursuing careers in teaching or entrepreneurship, graduates are well equipped to thrive in various industries, anywhere in our nation. With the right combination of skills, determination, and a passion for their craft, military veterans can forge successful and rewarding careers in the field of welding and CNC machining.