Interested in a career path that involves welding. Does the military have any positions that focus on welding, and what kind of training or opportunities are available in that field?
Absolutely, there are plenty of opportunities in the military for someone interested in welding. In fact, it's a crucial part of many maintenance and repair duties across all branches.
The Navy, for instance, has Hull Maintenance Technicians who are responsible for maintaining ship structures. They engage in a range of metalwork tasks, including welding repairs and fabrication and the maintenance of shipboard plumbing systems.
In the Army, the equivalent of this role is a Metal Worker (MOS 91W). These soldiers perform welding duties as well as cutting and brazing tasks.
The Air Force also has a specific role titled Structural Specialist (3E3X1), who perform welding functions as part of their duties. They're mainly responsible for maintaining and repairing structures including floors, roofs, walls, and foundations.
As for training, the military will provide it. For example, Navy Hull Maintenance Technicians go through an 8-week training program after basic training, where they learn welding techniques, materials, and repair methods.
Remember that service comes with other benefits, such as veteran-status preferential hiring in civilian jobs, access to the GI Bill for college tuition, and honing transferable skills like leadership, teamwork, and discipline.
Lastly, while I've focused on positions that directly involve welding, keep in mind that the military offers divergent career paths. Whether on land, sea, or air, a military career can connect you to a range of experiences and skills that go beyond a particular specialty, making it an interesting choice for many individuals.
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