Welding Tips and Tricks

Hey yall,

I recently got medically retired from Army after 12 years in. I loved it and planned on making it a lifelong career so was a bit blindsided when I had to retire early. I needed to find a new career and I decided on welding as it always interested me.

I'm finding it difficult to get my foot in the door at a job. And that's all I need because I'm always successful at any job I've had and a hard worker. However, nobody is really interested if you don't have at least 2 years experience and most job listings says 3-5.

I've taken some welding classes and also worked part time for a few months for a friend of an instructor of mine. But my children moved to Georgia and I had to follow them there.

I know I am starting out from the bottom, but I'm coming up empty handed so far. Another thing that worries me is that as time goes on, I'm just getting out of practice. I'd love to buy a welder and I'd stay out in the garage all night practicing, but I'm on a pretty tight budget. I'll be trying to get back to school, but really would like to get some real experience.

Any advice? Thanks!

You can buy a very affordable 120v DC Stick and TIG box from a store like Northern Tool, or Harbor Freight. While these units are not remotely close to a "work box", they are certainly capable of keeping you burning rods and practicing. Because they will run off 120v, you can plug them into a decent 20amp garage outlet too.

Also, look on your local Craigslist. "Tombstone" welders show up all the time for around $200. They do both AC and DC but usually require 220v outlets.

If you haven't already, go to your VA center and talk to them.

I went to college in my 30's with my VA rep helping make sure I was getting the help I needed.

Old Vern has since passed away but he took care of me and I'm sure someone in your local center will do the same.

There is a program called "Helmets to Hardhats", designed specifically to take veterans into the trades after discharge. Give that a google, and see what you find in your area.

Steve

@otto: I will check that site out, I had not heard of it before. Thanks

@Dave: I was working with the VA in Texas and that was how I was going to school. Unfortunately my rep there has been sluggish in getting my paperwork transferred over and the VA won't see me here until it has gone through.

@cj: Well I went ahead and just bought a Lincoln MP 210 lol. I figured I might as well spend the money if I want to get better.

Thanks for the input guys. I've actually just taken a weld test for one company and have another coming up soon. So my outlook is a bit more positive now!

Good for you - keep at it man