Women in Welding

Women in welding have been one of a kind in a male-dominated field. According to the 2014 report of the National Center for Welding Education and Training occupation, there are more than 411,000 welding related employees, but only 21 percent are female. By 2024 the report projects a demand for welding jobs, to increase up to 30 percent. For some women, whether its a do over in life or their first leap into the workforce, they know this industry continues to thrive.

Among the welding program at Central Lakes College, there are only 5 women enrolled. Although it may not seem like a lot, about 4 years ago there were none.

And it’s estimated that by 2024 there will be a demand for almost 46,000 additional welding jobs with more jobs available than people.

Even some the instructors have noticed areas where women excel in the career field.

As their skills continue to kindle, there’s no question in their excitement when they know they’ve done a good job.

And when asked advice they would give to other women interested in this career field, they all said go for it.

With the continued need for welders, experts expect that more and more women will be stepping underneath the hood and lighting off the blow torch to help meet those demands.