--- title: "Welding Blog | Western Welding Academy" url: "https://www.westernweldingacademy.com/blog" --- ![](/_astro/classroom.DRhCgMZU_18qqlN.jpg) 1. [Home](/) 2. /Blog The WWA blog # Welding blog Straight answers on pipe welding training, certifications, careers and costs, from the shop floor in Gillette, Wyoming. [ ![](/media/img/welddefects-pipe-og-38f04281.webp) Latest ยท Technique & Skills ## What Are the Most Common Weld Defects on Pipe and How Do You Avoid Them? Learn to identify and prevent the 6 most common pipe weld defects: porosity, lack of fusion, undercut, slag inclusions, cracking, and incomplete penetration. Oct 5, 2026Read article ](/blog/pipe-weld-defects-and-how-to-avoid-them) ## All articles All 158Certifications & Testing 54Careers & Pay 39Cost & Financing 34Technique & Skills 17Choosing a School 11General 2Veterans & Military 1 - [ ![](/media/img/weldsymbols-blueprints-main-ee8636f7.webp) Careers & Pay ### How to Read Welding Blueprints and Weld Symbols for Pipe Jobs Oct 5, 2026 ](/blog/how-to-read-welding-blueprints-and-weld-symbols) - [ ![](/media/img/heat-input-welding-pipe-thumbnail-32e7984a.webp) Careers & Pay ### What Is Heat Input in Welding and Why It Matters for Pipe Oct 5, 2026 ](/blog/what-is-heat-input-in-welding-and-why-it-matters-for-pipe) - [ ![](/media/img/tig-root-pass-failures-thumbnail-ee26bb08.webp) Technique & Skills ### Why Does a TIG Root Pass Fail and How Do Pipe Welders Prevent It? Oct 5, 2026 ](/blog/why-tig-root-passes-fail-and-how-to-prevent-it) - [ ![](/media/img/6g-pipe-weld-test-thumbnail-d9c2e17c.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Happens During a 6G Pipe Weld Test and How Do You Pass It? Oct 5, 2026 ](/blog/what-happens-during-a-6g-pipe-weld-test-and-how-to-pass) - [ ![](/media/img/1g-2g-5g-6g-welding-positions-main-0026fb4c.webp) Certifications & Testing ### 1G, 2G, 5G, and 6G Welding Positions: What's the Difference? Oct 2, 2026 ](/blog/difference-between-1g-2g-5g-6g-welding-positions) - [ ![](/media/img/reading-wps-step-by-step-main-ca84a60e.webp) Certifications & Testing ### How to Read a Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) Step by Step Oct 2, 2026 ](/blog/how-to-read-welding-procedure-specification-wps) - [ ![](/media/img/porosity-pipe-welds-main-60b40b43.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Causes Porosity in Pipe Welds and How to Fix It? Oct 2, 2026 ](/blog/what-causes-porosity-in-pipe-welds-how-to-fix-it) - [ ![](/media/img/good-pipe-welding-instructor-main-a7c04e08.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Makes a Good Pipe Welding Instructor and Why Does It Matter? Oct 2, 2026 ](/blog/what-makes-a-good-pipe-welding-instructor) - [ ![](/media/img/graduates-land-pipeline-job-main-d04c60e6.webp) Certifications & Testing ### How Do Welding School Graduates Land Their First Pipeline Job? Oct 2, 2026 ](/blog/how-welding-graduates-land-first-pipeline-job) - [ ![](/media/img/basic-welding-vs-pipe-welding-main-002ea094.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Is the Difference Between Basic Welding and Pipe Welding? Oct 1, 2026 ](/blog/basic-welding-vs-pipe-welding-difference) - [ ![](/media/img/aws-accreditation-quality-main-ddf423e7.webp) Certifications & Testing ### How Does AWS Accreditation Impact Welding School Quality? Oct 1, 2026 ](/blog/aws-accreditation-welding-school-quality) - [ ![](/media/img/higher-job-placement-rates-main-069d8b21.webp) Certifications & Testing ### Why Do Some Welding Schools Have Higher Job Placement Rates Than Others? Oct 1, 2026 ](/blog/why-welding-school-job-placement-rates-vary) - [ ![](/media/img/questions-before-choosing-program-main-086fad4d.webp) Choosing a School ### What Questions Should You Ask Before Choosing a Pipe Welding Program? Oct 1, 2026 ](/blog/questions-before-choosing-pipe-welding-program) - [ ![](/media/img/booth-time-vs-classroom-main-7f549f05.webp) Technique & Skills ### Why Does Hands-On Booth Time Matter More Than Classroom Hours in Welding School? Oct 1, 2026 ](/blog/booth-time-vs-classroom-hours-welding) - [ ![](/media/img/welding-schools-pipeline-job-sites-main-b0d639ea.webp) Certifications & Testing ### How Do Welding Schools Prepare Students for Real Pipeline Job Sites? Sep 30, 2026 ](/blog/welding-schools-prepare-pipeline-job-sites) - [ ![](/media/img/short-term-refresher-course-main-d4672861.webp) Choosing a School ### What Should a Working Welder Look for in a Short-Term Refresher Course? Sep 30, 2026 ](/blog/working-welder-short-term-refresher-course) - [ ![](/media/img/formal-training-fundamentals-main-6f512aee.webp) Certifications & Testing ### How Does Formal Training Help Experienced Welders Tighten Their Fundamentals? Sep 30, 2026 ](/blog/formal-training-tighten-fundamentals) - [ ![](/media/img/working-welders-back-school-main-0aaaf81a.webp) Certifications & Testing ### Why Do Working Welders Go Back to School After Years in the Field? Sep 30, 2026 ](/blog/working-welders-go-back-school) - [ ![](/media/img/skill-gaps-ojt-welders-main-2b373d1e.webp) Careers & Pay ### What Causes Skill Gaps in Welders Who Learned on the Job? Sep 30, 2026 ](/blog/skill-gaps-welders-learned-on-job) - [ ![](/media/img/refresher-course-promoted-main-d27e72c0.webp) Certifications & Testing ### How Does a Refresher Welding Course Help Working Welders Get Promoted? Sep 29, 2026 ](/blog/refresher-course-working-welders-promoted) - [ ![](/media/img/good-welder-vs-pipeline-main-73ff9e65.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Is the Difference Between Being a Good Welder and a Pipeline Welder? Sep 29, 2026 ](/blog/good-welder-vs-pipeline-welder) - [ ![](/media/img/weak-fundamentals-experienced-main-f458c7dd.webp) General ### Why Do Some Experienced Welders Still Have Weak Fundamentals? Sep 29, 2026 ](/blog/experienced-welders-weak-fundamentals) - [ ![](/media/img/structural-welder-pipeline-main-0d62689b.webp) Certifications & Testing ### Can a Structural Welder Transition to Pipeline Welding Without Starting Over? Sep 29, 2026 ](/blog/structural-welder-pipeline-welding-transition) - [ ![](/media/img/certifications-pipeline-jobs-main-25cce854.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Certifications Should an Experienced Welder Get to Work Pipeline Jobs? Sep 29, 2026 ](/blog/certifications-experienced-welder-pipeline-jobs) - [ ![](/media/img/experienced-welder-transition-timeline-main-933c2493.webp) Certifications & Testing ### How Long Does It Take an Experienced Welder to Transition to Pipe Work? Sep 25, 2026 ](/blog/experienced-welder-pipe-transition-timeline) - [ ![](/media/img/experienced-welders-wrong-pipe-main-92a036e7.webp) Cost & Financing ### What Do Experienced Welders Get Wrong When They Move to Pipe Welding? Sep 25, 2026 ](/blog/experienced-welders-get-wrong-pipe-welding) - [ ![](/media/img/specialized-pipe-training-experienced-main-54747192.webp) Certifications & Testing ### Why Is Specialized Pipe Training Necessary Even for Experienced Welders? Sep 25, 2026 ](/blog/experienced-welders-need-pipe-training) - [ ![](/media/img/plate-welding-help-hurt-pipe-main-7723fffe.webp) Certifications & Testing ### How Does Plate Welding Experience Help or Hurt in Pipe Welding School? Sep 25, 2026 ](/blog/plate-welding-help-hurt-pipe-school) - [ ![](/media/img/good-welders-fail-pipe-cert-main-2a4d0ad3.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Stops Good Welders From Passing Pipe Welding Certification Tests? Sep 25, 2026 ](/blog/good-welders-fail-pipe-certification) - [ ![](/media/img/experienced-welders-pipe-work-main-23a15c98.webp) Certifications & Testing ### Why Do Experienced Welders Struggle When They Switch to Pipe Work? Sep 24, 2026 ](/blog/experienced-welders-struggle-pipe-work) - [ ![](/media/img/career-changers-over-25-main-fc842703.webp) Cost & Financing ### Why Do Career Changers Over 25 Actually Have an Advantage in Welding School? Sep 24, 2026 ](/blog/career-changers-over-25-welding-advantage) - [ ![](/media/img/fastest-path-career-change-main-af3f25c5.webp) Cost & Financing ### What Is the Fastest Path From Career Change to First Pipe Welding Paycheck? Sep 24, 2026 ](/blog/fastest-path-career-change-pipe-welding) - [ ![](/media/img/no-trade-skills-pipe-welder-main-45200094.webp) Certifications & Testing ### Can an Adult With No Trade Skills Become a Pipe Welder in Under a Year? Sep 24, 2026 ](/blog/no-trade-skills-pipe-welder-under-year) - [ ![](/media/img/booth-welder-aztec-main-3d32adca.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Does a Structured Pipe Welding Program Actually Include? Sep 24, 2026 ](/blog/structured-pipe-welding-program-includes) - [ ![](/media/img/career-changer-earning-speed-main-a9f0ec8d.webp) Cost & Financing ### How Fast Can an Adult Career Changer Start Earning as a Pipe Welder? Sep 23, 2026 ](/blog/career-changer-earning-speed-pipe-welding) - [ ![](/media/img/career-changer-before-enrolling-main-07513d02.webp) Cost & Financing ### What Should Every Career Changer Know Before Enrolling in Pipe Welding School? Sep 23, 2026 ](/blog/career-changer-before-enrolling-welding-school) - [ ![](/media/img/intensive-welding-program-main-8ac7a078.webp) Certifications & Testing ### How Does an Intensive Welding Program Work for Someone Switching Careers? Sep 23, 2026 ](/blog/intensive-welding-program-career-switch) - [ ![](/media/img/adults-welding-school-main-9d17df77.webp) Choosing a School ### Why Do Adults Struggle More Than Younger Students in Welding School? Sep 23, 2026 ](/blog/do-adults-struggle-welding-school) - [ ![](/media/img/is-30-too-old-welding-thumbnail-078aaa3f.webp) Certifications & Testing ### Is 30 Too Old to Start Pipe Welding Training From Scratch? Sep 23, 2026 ](/blog/is-30-too-old-pipe-welding) - [ ![](/media/img/mig-vs-tig-welding-main-009d800f.webp) Cost & Financing ### What Is the Difference Between MIG and TIG Welding? Sep 22, 2026 ](/blog/mig-vs-tig-welding) - [ ![](/media/img/alex-oliver-main-e5227e99.webp) Certifications & Testing ### How Do Career Changers With No Trade Background Become Pipe Welders? Sep 21, 2026 ](/blog/career-changers-pipe-welding) - [ ![](/media/img/justin-fisher-main-18b2472b.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Scares Adults Away From Starting Welding Training Later in Life? Sep 21, 2026 ](/blog/adult-welding-training-fears) - [ ![](/media/img/tanner-scudder-main-2-236061c2.webp) Certifications & Testing ### Why Do Aspiring Pipe Welders Need Specialized Training Instead of General Welding? Sep 21, 2026 ](/blog/specialized-pipe-welding-training) - [ ![](/media/img/grace-williams-main-b94cb40d.webp) Choosing a School ### How Does a Pipe Welding Course Build Confidence for First-Time Trade Students? Sep 21, 2026 ](/blog/pipe-welding-course-confidence-beginners) - [ ![](/media/img/mccoy-bilharz-main-image-e06153f6.webp) Technique & Skills ### What Happens During the First Week of Pipe Welding School? Sep 21, 2026 ](/blog/first-week-pipe-welding-school) - [ ![](/media/img/joshua-borkowski-main-23b117ee.webp) Certifications & Testing ### Why Is Structured Welding Training Better Than Learning on the Job? Sep 18, 2026 ](/blog/structured-welding-training-vs-on-the-job) - [ ![](/media/img/welding-competition-sparks-main-ee7a141f.webp) Choosing a School ### What Basic Skills Does Every Beginner Need Before Pipe Welding School? Sep 18, 2026 ](/blog/basic-skills-pipe-welding-school) - [ ![](/media/img/cole-barbacci-main-1-5ccd8410.webp) Certifications & Testing ### Can You Start Pipe Welding School With Absolutely No Welding Experience? Sep 18, 2026 ](/blog/pipe-welding-school-no-experience) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1083-open-graph-fd2a3afd.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Is the Average Welder Salary in the United States in 2026? Sep 17, 2026 ](/blog/what-is-the-average-welder-salary-in-the-united-states-in-2026) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1104-open-graph-8ef7e5f4.webp) Certifications & Testing ### How Do You Become a Welder in 2026? Sep 17, 2026 ](/blog/how-do-you-become-a-welder-in-2026) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1062-open-graph-e18d5751.webp) Cost & Financing ### How Long Does It Take a Beginner to Become a Certified Pipe Welder? Sep 17, 2026 ](/blog/how-long-does-it-take-a-beginner-to-become-a-certified-pipe-welder) - [ ![](/media/img/0r1a5714-open-graph-4e8cf2bb.webp) Cost & Financing ### What Should a First-Time Welder Look for in a Pipe Welding Course? Sep 17, 2026 ](/blog/what-should-a-first-time-welder-look-for-in-a-pipe-welding-course) - [ ![](/media/img/0r1a0078-open-graph-75db5a76.webp) Technique & Skills ### How Does a Complete Beginner Go From Stick Welding to Pipe Welding? Sep 17, 2026 ](/blog/how-does-a-complete-beginner-go-from-stick-welding-to-pipe-welding) - [ ![](/media/img/0r1a0105-open-graph-6f2a7a60.webp) Choosing a School ### What Makes Pipe Welding Harder Than Basic Welding for Beginners? Sep 17, 2026 ](/blog/what-makes-pipe-welding-harder-than-basic-welding-for-beginners) - [ ![](/media/img/esabandbct2026-152-open-graph-0ce1c8e1.webp) Technique & Skills ### Why Do Most New Welders Struggle With Pipe Welding at First? Sep 17, 2026 ](/blog/why-do-most-new-welders-struggle-with-pipe-welding-at-first) - [ ![](/media/img/0r1a0112-open-graph-8478bc6e.webp) Cost & Financing ### How Do You Choose the Right Welding School for a Career Change? Sep 16, 2026 ](/blog/how-do-you-choose-the-right-welding-school-for-a-career-change) - [ ![](/media/img/mg-2669-open-graph-72b2aa43.webp) Certifications & Testing ### Which Is Better: A 12-Week or 24-Week Welding Program? Sep 16, 2026 ](/blog/which-is-better-a-12-week-or-24-week-welding-program) - [ ![](/media/img/0r1a0074-open-graph-a5371129.webp) Certifications & Testing ### Welding School vs Apprenticeship: Which Path Gets You to Six Figures Faster? Sep 16, 2026 ](/blog/welding-school-vs-apprenticeship-which-path-gets-you-to-six-figures-faster) - [ ![](/media/img/0r1a5586-open-graph-0ead6447.webp) Cost & Financing ### Welding Trade School vs Community College: Which Path Pays Off Faster? Sep 16, 2026 ](/blog/welding-trade-school-vs-community-college-which-path-pays-off-faster) - [ ![](/media/img/0r1a5691-open-graph-dab46108.webp) Cost & Financing ### Western Welding Academy vs Tulsa Welding School: Cost, Length, and Housing Compared Sep 16, 2026 ](/blog/western-welding-academy-vs-tulsa-welding-school-which-one-gets-you-hired-faster) - [ ![](/media/img/0r1a5697-open-graph-a608eb67.webp) Cost & Financing ### How Do You Compare Pipe Welding Schools in the USA on Job Placement, Cost, and Booth Time? Sep 16, 2026 ](/blog/what-are-the-best-pipe-welding-schools-in-the-usa-ranked-by-job-placement) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1148-open-graph-a9dcb8f3.webp) Technique & Skills ### How Do You Weld Stainless Steel Pipe? Sep 15, 2026 ](/blog/how-do-you-weld-stainless-steel-pipe) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0985-open-graph-acbb92ed.webp) Cost & Financing ### How Long Is Underwater Welding School? Sep 15, 2026 ](/blog/how-long-is-underwater-welding-school) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1536-open-graph-0d7508cd.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Can You Do with a Welding Certification? Sep 15, 2026 ](/blog/what-can-you-do-with-a-welding-certification) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1087-open-graph-d3a9ac8c.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Is the Hardest Welding Certification? 6G, 6GR, and Beyond Sep 14, 2026 ](/blog/what-is-the-hardest-welding-certification-6g-6gr-and-beyond) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1083-open-graph-fd2a3afd.webp) Careers & Pay ### How Long Does a Welding Job Take? Time Per Project Explained Sep 14, 2026 ](/blog/how-long-does-a-welding-job-take-time-per-project-explained) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1062-open-graph-e18d5751.webp) Technique & Skills ### Can You Weld Ductile Iron Pipe? What Every Welder Needs to Know Sep 14, 2026 ](/blog/can-you-weld-ductile-iron-pipe-what-every-welder-needs-to-know) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1104-open-graph-8ef7e5f4.webp) Technique & Skills ### What Is Downhill Pipe Welding and When Should You Use It? Sep 14, 2026 ](/blog/what-is-downhill-pipe-welding-and-when-should-you-use-it) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1109-open-graph-62f8502c.webp) Technique & Skills ### How To Weld Aluminum For Beginners Sep 14, 2026 ](/blog/how-to-weld-aluminum-for-beginners) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0923-open-graph-b26ea492.webp) Careers & Pay ### What Is an Underwater Welding Job? Sep 10, 2026 ](/blog/what-is-an-underwater-welding-job) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1128-open-graph-82fcd8a5.webp) Careers & Pay ### What Type of Welder Is Used for Pipelines? Sep 10, 2026 ](/blog/what-type-of-welder-is-used-for-pipelines) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1563-open-graph-58d57d6a.webp) Cost & Financing ### How Much Does a Welding Certification Cost? Sep 10, 2026 ](/blog/how-much-does-a-welding-certification-cost) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1577-open-graph-30f36957.webp) Certifications & Testing ### How Many Welding Certifications Are There? Sep 10, 2026 ](/blog/how-many-welding-certifications-are-there) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1142-open-graph-07f7d3e0.webp) Technique & Skills ### How Do You Stick Weld for Beginners? Sep 10, 2026 ](/blog/how-do-you-stick-weld-for-beginners) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0932-open-graph-56ba89ea.webp) Technique & Skills ### Can You Weld Black Iron Pipe? Sep 9, 2026 ](/blog/can-you-weld-black-iron-pipe) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1405-open-graph-b3d3cd1e.webp) Cost & Financing ### How Much Is Tulsa Welding School? Sep 9, 2026 ](/blog/how-much-is-tulsa-welding-school) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1116-open-graph-afd96d0f.webp) General ### Can You Weld Galvanized Pipe? Sep 9, 2026 ](/blog/can-you-weld-galvanized-pipe) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1409-open-graph-1-e1755f56.webp) Certifications & Testing ### How Long Does a Welding Certification Last? Sep 9, 2026 ](/blog/how-long-does-a-welding-certification-last) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1141-open-graph-caa9ee35.webp) Technique & Skills ### How Do You MIG Weld for Beginners? Sep 9, 2026 ](/blog/how-do-you-mig-weld-for-beginners) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1403-open-graph-1-7d8c25e3.webp) Cost & Financing ### How Do You Get Welding Certified Without School? Sep 8, 2026 ](/blog/how-do-you-get-welding-certified-without-school) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1034-open-graph-1-5dcd6b08.webp) Careers & Pay ### Is Welding a Dangerous Job? Sep 8, 2026 ](/blog/is-welding-a-dangerous-job) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1049-open-graph-3-2fc697e0.webp) Careers & Pay ### Is Welding a Hard Job? Sep 8, 2026 ](/blog/is-welding-a-hard-job) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1078-open-graph-1-75484d01.webp) Cost & Financing ### How Much Does Welding School Cost? Sep 8, 2026 ](/blog/how-much-does-welding-school-cost) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1288-open-graph-e7272cee.webp) Cost & Financing ### How Long Is Welding School? Sep 8, 2026 ](/blog/how-long-is-welding-school) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0927-open-graph-1-e6a7c5e9.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Do You Need to Know Before Starting an Aerospace Welding Career? Sep 7, 2026 ](/blog/what-do-you-need-to-know-before-starting-an-aerospace-welding-career) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1143-1-open-graph-4f6e1c0d.webp) Careers & Pay ### What Are Nuclear Welding Jobs and How Do You Get In? Sep 7, 2026 ](/blog/what-are-nuclear-welding-jobs-and-how-do-you-get-in) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1120-open-graph-a9f1ae67.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Is a Welding Inspector and How Do You Become One? Sep 7, 2026 ](/blog/what-is-a-welding-inspector-and-how-do-you-become-one) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1108-open-graph-1-fff0458e.webp) Choosing a School ### How Do You Get a Welding Apprenticeship Step by Step? Sep 4, 2026 ](/blog/how-do-you-get-a-welding-apprenticeship-step-by-step) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0122-open-graph-5f8c067d.webp) Cost & Financing ### Is a Welding Apprenticeship Better Than Welding School? Sep 1, 2026 ](/blog/is-a-welding-apprenticeship-better-than-welding-school) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1064-open-graph-f4bb6ca7.webp) Cost & Financing ### How Do You Set Up a Home Welding Shop on a Budget? Sep 1, 2026 ](/blog/how-do-you-set-up-a-home-welding-shop-on-a-budget) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0084-open-graph-d993dcdc.webp) Cost & Financing ### What Tools Does a Welder Need to Own? Sep 1, 2026 ](/blog/what-tools-does-a-welder-need-to-own) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0185-open-graph-b6297801.webp) Technique & Skills ### What Is FCAW Welding and When Do You Use It? Sep 1, 2026 ](/blog/what-is-fcaw-welding-and-when-do-you-use-it) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0610-open-graph-71977d8e.webp) Careers & Pay ### Should You Learn MIG, TIG, or Stick Welding First? Sep 1, 2026 ](/blog/should-you-learn-mig-tig-or-stick-welding-first) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0633-open-graph-472515d1.webp) Technique & Skills ### What Is Orbital Welding and Where Is It Used? Aug 28, 2026 ](/blog/what-is-orbital-welding-and-where-is-it-used) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0431-open-graph-e836a8c7.webp) Cost & Financing ### What Is It Like Living in Gillette, Wyoming as a Welding Student? Aug 28, 2026 ](/blog/what-is-it-like-living-in-gillette-wyoming-as-a-welding-student) - [ ![](/media/img/img-1585-open-graph-86fe5913.webp) Careers & Pay ### Why Do Welders in Wyoming Earn More Than the National Average? Aug 28, 2026 ](/blog/why-do-welders-in-wyoming-earn-more-than-the-national-average) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0576-open-graph-38d5c1cb.webp) Choosing a School ### How Do You Protect Your Eyes and Lungs While Welding? Aug 28, 2026 ](/blog/how-do-you-protect-your-eyes-and-lungs-while-welding) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0088-open-graph-5159f74e.webp) Cost & Financing ### What Is the Best Welding Helmet and Safety Gear for Beginners? Aug 28, 2026 ](/blog/what-is-the-best-welding-helmet-and-safety-gear-for-beginners) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0837-open-graph-4803b0c7.webp) Choosing a School ### What Are the Long Term Health Risks of Welding? Aug 27, 2026 ](/blog/what-are-the-long-term-health-risks-of-welding) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0155-open-graph-9b9490a8.webp) Careers & Pay ### How Are AI and Automation Changing Welding Careers? Aug 27, 2026 ](/blog/how-are-ai-and-automation-changing-welding-careers) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0117-open-graph-d09d5453.webp) Careers & Pay ### What Industries Are Hiring the Most Welders Right Now? Aug 27, 2026 ](/blog/what-industries-are-hiring-the-most-welders-right-now) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0702-open-graph-36188cad.webp) Careers & Pay ### Why Is the Welder Shortage Getting Worse in 2026? Aug 27, 2026 ](/blog/why-is-the-welder-shortage-getting-worse-in-2026) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0329-open-graph-1b22f193.webp) Certifications & Testing ### How Much Practice Does It Take to Get Good at Welding? Aug 27, 2026 ](/blog/how-much-practice-does-it-take-to-get-good-at-welding) - [ ![](/media/img/open-graph-a29d086a.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Is the Difference Between Pipeline, Refinery, and Structural Welding Careers? Aug 26, 2026 ](/blog/what-is-the-difference-between-pipeline-refinery-and-structural-welding-careers) - [ ![](/media/img/open-graph-d8562a88.webp) Cost & Financing ### How Do You Choose Between the Foundational, Professional, and Expert Program? Aug 26, 2026 ](/blog/how-do-you-choose-between-the-foundational-professional-and-expert-program) - [ ![](/media/img/open-graph-f5b36db8.webp) Veterans & Military ### Why Do Military Veterans Make the Best Pipe Welders? Aug 26, 2026 ](/blog/why-do-military-veterans-make-the-best-pipe-welders) - [ ![](/media/img/open-graph-837fe6e1.webp) Cost & Financing ### Does Welding School or College Debt Pay Off Faster? Aug 26, 2026 ](/blog/does-welding-school-or-college-debt-pay-off-faster) - [ ![](/media/img/open-graph-compliant-940efd1e.webp) Cost & Financing ### How Do You Budget for Welding School While Working Full Time? Aug 26, 2026 ](/blog/how-do-you-budget-for-welding-school-while-working-full-time) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0938-open-graph-63357cf5.webp) Careers & Pay ### Is Welding a Good Career Change From Construction or Oil Field Work? Aug 25, 2026 ](/blog/is-welding-a-good-career-change-from-construction-or-oil-field-work) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0153-open-graph-da56af05.webp) Careers & Pay ### Can You Become a Welder at 40 or Older? Aug 25, 2026 ](/blog/can-you-become-a-welder-at-40-or-older) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0575-open-graph-3be30f3e.webp) Careers & Pay ### How Do You Switch Careers to Welding in Your 30s? Aug 25, 2026 ](/blog/how-do-you-switch-careers-to-welding-in-your-30s) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0137-open-graph-86c92111.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Do Employers Look For When Hiring New Welders? Aug 25, 2026 ](/blog/what-do-employers-look-for-when-hiring-new-welders) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0103-open-graph-2d51fdc9.webp) Careers & Pay ### How Long After Welding School Before You Get Hired? Aug 25, 2026 ](/blog/how-long-after-welding-school-before-you-get-hired) - [ ![](/media/img/open-graph-image-1200x630-7520946e.webp) Careers & Pay ### What Do Welding School Graduates Actually Earn Their First Year? Aug 24, 2026 ](/blog/what-do-welding-school-graduates-actually-earn-their-first-year) - [ ![](/media/img/open-graph-image-1200x630-d263a32a.webp) Careers & Pay ### How Does Welding Pay Compare to Other Skilled Trades in 2026? Aug 24, 2026 ](/blog/how-does-welding-pay-compare-to-other-skilled-trades-in-2026) - [ ![](/media/img/open-graph-image-1200x630-88937afc.webp) Careers & Pay ### How Does Graduating From Welding School Help You Get Hired Faster? Aug 24, 2026 ](/blog/how-does-graduating-from-welding-school-help-you-get-hired-faster) - [ ![](/media/img/open-graph-image-1200x630-c391534a.webp) Careers & Pay ### What Is the Demand for Pipeline Welders in Oil and Gas Right Now? Aug 24, 2026 ](/blog/what-is-the-demand-for-pipeline-welders-in-oil-and-gas-right-now) - [ ![](/media/img/open-graph-image-1200x630-e78c780e.webp) Careers & Pay ### Are There Good Welding Career Paths for Women in 2026? Aug 24, 2026 ](/blog/are-there-good-welding-career-paths-for-women-in-2026) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0575-open-graph-2638f999.webp) Careers & Pay ### What Should You Expect During Your First Week at Welding School? Aug 20, 2026 ](/blog/what-should-you-expect-during-your-first-week-at-welding-school) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0312-open-graph-6aa3d161.webp) Careers & Pay ### How Is Automation Changing the Demand for Skilled Welders? Aug 20, 2026 ](/blog/how-is-automation-changing-the-demand-for-skilled-welders) - [ ![](/media/img/img-0304-open-graph-7f4850d4.webp) Careers & Pay ### What Are the Highest Paying Welding Specialties in 2026? Aug 20, 2026 ](/blog/what-are-the-highest-paying-welding-specialties-in-2026) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-21-1-b5232f6e.webp) Cost & Financing ### How Is Welding School Different From a Welding Apprenticeship? Aug 19, 2026 ](/blog/how-is-welding-school-different-from-a-welding-apprenticeship) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-20-bdad4331.webp) Careers & Pay ### How Do Welding Unions Work and Should New Welders Join One? Aug 19, 2026 ](/blog/how-do-welding-unions-work-and-should-new-welders-join-one) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-19-4554ada1.webp) Cost & Financing ### How Do Military Veterans Transition Into Welding Careers After Service? Aug 18, 2026 ](/blog/how-do-military-veterans-transition-into-welding-careers-after-service) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-18-5161ba92.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Is API 1104 Certification and Why Do Pipe Welders Need It? Aug 18, 2026 ](/blog/what-is-api-1104-certification-and-why-do-pipe-welders-need-it) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-17-dff1ac0d.webp) Careers & Pay ### What Does a Typical Day Look Like for a Working Pipeline Welder? Aug 17, 2026 ](/blog/what-does-a-typical-day-look-like-for-a-working-pipeline-welder) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-16-6f97d62b.webp) Cost & Financing ### Is Trade School for Welding a Better Investment Than a Four-Year College Degree? Aug 14, 2026 ](/blog/is-trade-school-for-welding-a-better-investment-than-a-four-year-college-degree) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-15-8fea187f.webp) Cost & Financing ### What Should Parents Know Before Their Teenager Goes to Welding School? Aug 14, 2026 ](/blog/what-should-parents-know-before-their-teenager-goes-to-welding-school) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-14-d4b05b00.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Is the Average Pipeline Welder Salary in the United States in 2026? Aug 14, 2026 ](/blog/what-is-the-average-pipeline-welder-salary-in-the-united-states-in-2026) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-13-e6934f24.webp) Certifications & Testing ### How Long Does It Take to Become a Certified Pipe Welder From Scratch? Aug 14, 2026 ](/blog/how-long-does-it-take-to-become-a-certified-pipe-welder-from-scratch) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-12-edd549b2.webp) Cost & Financing ### How Much Does Pipe Welding School Cost in 2026? Aug 14, 2026 ](/blog/how-much-does-pipe-welding-school-cost-in-2026) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-11-01fb6c04.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Is the Best Pipe Welding Training for Experienced Welders? Aug 10, 2026 ](/blog/what-is-the-best-pipe-welding-training-for-experienced-welders) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-10-55287fde.webp) Certifications & Testing ### How Do Refresher Welding Courses Help With Career Advancement? Aug 5, 2026 ](/blog/how-do-refresher-welding-courses-help-with-career-advancement) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-9-943f7870.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What Are the Best Foundational Welding Courses for Experienced Welders Restarting? Aug 5, 2026 ](/blog/what-are-the-best-foundational-welding-courses-for-experienced-welders-restarting) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-8-f8f916c2.webp) Certifications & Testing ### Basic Welding Course for Working Welders | Western Welding Academy Aug 4, 2026 ](/blog/basic-welding-course-for-working-welders-western-welding-academy) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-7-a66a7332.webp) Technique & Skills ### What Leads to Skill Gaps in Core Welding Techniques for Working Welders? Aug 4, 2026 ](/blog/what-leads-to-skill-gaps-in-core-welding-techniques-for-working-welders) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-6-80492184.webp) Technique & Skills ### Welding Technique Skill Gaps Explained Aug 4, 2026 ](/blog/welding-technique-skill-gaps-explained) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-5-3905313d.webp) Careers & Pay ### Advanced Pipe Welding Training to Speed Up Your Career | Western Welding Academy Jul 29, 2026 ](/blog/advanced-pipe-welding-training-to-speed-up-your-career-western-welding-academy) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-4-30a28f77.webp) Careers & Pay ### Upgrade From Basic to Pipe Welding in 12 to 24 Weeks | Western Welding Academy Jul 29, 2026 ](/blog/upgrade-from-basic-to-pipe-welding-in-12-to-24-weeks-western-welding-academy) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-3-b1a7cc97.webp) Careers & Pay ### Which Welding School With Job Placement Gets You Hired Fastest? Jul 29, 2026 ](/blog/pipe-welding-schools-with-highest-job-placement-western-welding-academy) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-2-1a291a83.webp) Careers & Pay ### Six Figure Pipeline Welding Careers After Graduation Jul 29, 2026 ](/blog/six-figure-pipeline-welding-careers-after-graduation) - [ ![](/media/img/og-image-61bd6cf9.webp) Certifications & Testing ### SMAW Pipe Welding Course for Certification Prep | Western Welding Academy Jul 29, 2026 ](/blog/smaw-pipe-welding-course-for-certification-prep-western-welding-academy) - [ ![](/media/img/0r1a7714copy-webflow-og-7fb749fc.webp) Careers & Pay ### How Does a 21-Year-Old Welder Make Six Figures a Year? Jul 3, 2026 ](/blog/how-does-a-21-year-old-welder-make-150-000-a-year) - [ ![](/media/img/0r1a7854-webflow-og-7ed304fb.webp) Certifications & Testing ### Welding Certification Pay: What a Graduate Paycheck Proves Jul 3, 2026 ](/blog/welding-certification-pay-what-a-4-514-paycheck-proves) - [ ![](/media/img/0r1a5285-webflow-og-8e00b40b.webp) Careers & Pay ### Pipe Welder Starting Pay: What Do Graduates Actually Earn? Jul 3, 2026 ](/blog/pipe-welder-starting-pay-what-do-graduates-actually-earn) - [ ![](/media/img/3twi2bcbswdmiobz8jqauq-1783057134236-na1fn-l2hvbwuvdwj1bnr1l3vwbg9hzc8-273b2b32.webp) Cost & Financing ### Career Change to Welding: Is It Too Late to Become a Pipe Welder? Jul 3, 2026 ](/blog/career-change-to-welding-is-it-too-late-to-become-a-pipe-welder) - [ ![](/media/img/d6jgwxqjnw3ddsqazsta1v-1783056282593-na1fn-l2hvbwuvdwj1bnr1l3vwbg9hzc8-4dfd561c.webp) Certifications & Testing ### Beginner Welding School: Zero to Pipeline Welder in 12 Weeks Jul 3, 2026 ](/blog/beginner-welding-school-zero-to-pipeline-welder-in-12-weeks) - [ Cost & Financing ### Why a Pipe Welding School Beats a Four-Year College Path May 20, 2026 ](/blog/why-a-pipe-welding-school-beats-a-four-year-college-path) - [ ![](/media/img/blog-7-thumbnail-e90bb702.webp) Careers & Pay ### What a Pipe Welding School Day Actually Looks Like May 20, 2026 ](/blog/what-a-pipe-welding-school-day-actually-looks-like) - [ ![](/media/img/0r1a1496-thumbnail-53591d97.webp) Careers & Pay ### When to Begin Pipeline Welder Training for the Best Pay May 20, 2026 ](/blog/when-to-begin-pipeline-welder-training-for-the-best-pay) - [ ![](/media/img/bctmo-64-thumbnail-67bf1cf8.webp) Careers & Pay ### Where to Find the Best Pipe Welding School in the USA Now May 20, 2026 ](/blog/where-to-find-the-best-pipe-welding-school-in-the-usa-now) - [ ![](/media/img/bct2026tucsonarizona2026-26-thumbnail-3dd3734c.webp) Careers & Pay ### Who Should Enroll in the Best Pipe Welding School Today May 20, 2026 ](/blog/who-should-enroll-in-the-best-pipe-welding-school-today) - [ ![](/media/img/bluecollartoural2-6-26-2-thumbnail-caa700b7.webp) Certifications & Testing ### What a Pipe Welding School Actually Teaches You in 2026 May 20, 2026 ](/blog/what-pipe-welding-school-teaches-you) - [ ![](/media/img/fire-resistant-clothes-2f7e3c6b.webp) Choosing a School ### Choosing the Right Fire-Resistant Workwear Nov 19, 2024 ](/blog/choosing-the-right-fire-resistant-workwear) - [ Choosing a School ### Student Housing and Welding School Essentials Sep 25, 2023 ](/blog/student-housing-and-welding-school-essentials) - [ ![](/media/img/maxresdefault-f16b8ce0.webp) Cost & Financing ### Battle of the Welding Torches: Cheaper vs. Professional Sep 18, 2023 ](/blog/battle-of-the-welding-torches-cheaper-vs-professional) - [ ![](/media/img/website-og-eaee469b.webp) Careers & Pay ### The Top 5 Blue Collar Professions in High Demand Sep 18, 2023 ](/blog/the-top-5-blue-collar-professions-in-high-demand) ## Ready to stop reading and start welding? 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