In a world that’s constantly building, repairing and innovating, Fabrication and Welding specialists form the backbone of many industries. From constructing skyscrapers and bridges to manufacturing cars and aircraft components, skilled fabricators and welders are in high demand. In fact, the sector is a significant slice of manufacturing output in the UK, valued at a whopping £80 billion.

But what exactly does a career in fabrication and welding look like and what opportunities are out there? Let’s break it down.

What is Fabrication and Welding?

Fabrication is the process of cutting, shaping and assembling metal structures from raw materials. Welding, a key part of fabrication, involves fusing materials, usually metals together using heat and pressure.

These skills are essential in industries like engineering and manufacturing, where you can earn up to £45,000 specialising in Fabrication and Welding, with even more earning potential if you take your career international and off-shore on oil rigs!

Studying Fabrication and Welding is setting the foundations for a dynamic, well-paying and respected career. Your expertise will be in demand across a wide range of industries for many years to come as the UK continues to build and boost economic growth.

Who will you be?

Fabricator or Welder 

The most obvious career paths for many that train in the industry. These two professions interpret blueprints and technical drawings to cut, fit, and weld metal components. They’re hands-on roles suited for those who enjoy precision, working with tools and seeing real results!

Welding Inspector 

Once you develop your experience through entry-level fabrication and welding, you can move into inspection. Welding inspectors ensure welds meet safety and quality standards, making this a critical role in structural and industrial settings.

Robotic Welding Technician

With automation and innovation on the rise in engineering and manufacturing, technicians program and maintain welding robots. It’s a great path if you’re interested in blending traditional skills with technology to drive quality assurance.

Mechanical Engineer

The great thing about Fabrication and Welding is the way you can also enter engineering roles. Welding is a fundamental working practice for many mechanical engineering careers, especially those involving metal structure. This transfer in knowledge means you can enjoy a rewarding career supporting with the build of vital infrastructure.

Master your trade at Calderdale College

At Calderdale College, we offer multiple courses in Fabrication and Welding, not to mention a General Welder apprenticeship where you will split your time between your college course at The Engineering Centre and working on-site with an employer.

You will learn all about Metal Inert Gas (MIG) and Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding, sheet metal work, health and safety and how to weld different joints so you can apply your expertise to different working practices! All our courses are certified by City and Guilds, a respectable awarding body in the construction sector.

If you’re ready to get your hands dirty and make your mark in a growing field, fabrication and welding might just be the perfect fit for you! Click here to find out more.