Some may view welding as an unconventional career choice for women, but it is also one that offers numerous job opportunities and benefits. Demand is high, as there is set to be a shortage of over 400,000 welders by 2024. Fewer than 20% of all welders are under the age of 35, yet over half of all goods manufactured in the United States require some form of welding, illustrates the graphic from Tulsa Welding School. Another benefit is that the average annual welding salary is $40,040, much more than that of traditionally female-dominated fields like childcare or administrative assistance. Women have not overlooked all that welding has to offer, and, thanks to shifting norms and advances in equipment, more and more are donning welding helmets.
Equipped and Ready
Modern advances in equipment have played a role in making welding a viable career for many women. In times past, welding shops were dark, dangerous places for women to work and it was not uncommon to have to lift heavy equipment. Thankfully, times and technology have changed things: shops are now smoke-free environments, and robotic welding allows women to take on jobs that require lifting 50 pounds or more.
As a growing number of women opt for a career in construction, personal protective equipment (PPE) manufacturers are seeing the need to create gloves, hard hats, harnesses, boots and other equipment specifically for women. Experts in the skilled labor workforce have noted that unisex gear and gear that is made for men is often the wrong size for women and can create safety hazards in the workplace. While it is still a challenge for many women to find the equipment they need, manufacturers are taking notice and designing gear to fit them.
Our stores stock an extremely large variety of welding equipment, including safety apparel, torches, accessories, and hand tools. We take pride in serving men and women alike and can provide you with the tools and safety equipment you need to take on any welding job. We know that welding job growth in both Texas and New Mexico is higher than the national average and make a concerted effort to provide welding supplies made by all major brand names at a reasonable price.
Credit source: www.weldingschool.com
