What’s New In Welding

The petrochemical industry is a mainstay of the economy of the Gulf Coast region, and serves as one of the primary employers in the state of Louisiana. While the industry has been in something of a slump in recent years, there are signs that oil and gas prices are starting to rebound. If that upward trend in prices continues, skilled workers such as welders could see new employment opportunities materialize as the industry begins to enter an expansion phase. This potential growth, along with the projected workforce shortage caused by the impending retirement of a large percentage of the nation’s skilled workers, indicates that this might be an advantageous time to consider training for a profession such as welding.

If you’re in the Hammond or Greater New Orleans area and feeling uncertain about your career direction, the Pipe Technician program at Compass Career College might represent an opportunity to ride the next wave of petrochemical industry growth in the Gulf Coast Region—and there are several reasons why:

1. The petrochemical industry needs skilled welders to operate successfully. Refineries and chemical plants typically employ their own welders to maintain equipment and facilities. Additionally, skilled welders are needed for special, long-term projects such as construction of new equipment or facilities, including large-scale pipelines for transportation of petroleum products.

2. The overall job outlook for skilled welders is positive, and pay rates and benefits are competitive. Even if welders seek employment outside the petrochemical industry, their skills are overall in demand nationwide. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment opportunities for welders and pipe technicians will steadily increase for at least the next several years. Many welding-related jobs also offer union representation, which can ensure higher wages and access to benefits such as health insurance coverage.

3. Welding training programs offer a quicker path to employment than 4-year degrees. At Compass Career College, you can complete the Welding Technician program in only 16 weeks and the Pipe Technician program in only 30 weeks. Both programs will prepare you for entry into the workforce as an advanced welder, although the Pipe Technician program offers instruction on additional techniques and standards unique to pipe welding. CCC’s outstanding certification record and high standards of quality also provide you with an excellent return on your investment. The welding programs at CCC can have you ready for gainful employment in a matter of a months, and for a fraction of the cost of a university degree.

For more information on Compass Career College’s Welding program, or to talk to Admissions Counselor about other programs available to you at CCC, call (985) 419-2050 or visit compasscareercollege.net.