Most Affordable Online Welding Trade School Programs for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Welding remains one of the few trades with strong job security—unemployment stays low at just 2–3%. But every year, high school graduates miss out on these steady opportunities simply because they don’t act early or can’t find affordable programs that fit their needs.

This guide highlights the most affordable online welding programs and trade school options for 2025. Backed by career planning experts, it’s designed to help you take the right steps now, so you don’t fall behind while others secure the jobs you’re aiming for.

What are the benefits of getting an online welding trade school program?

Prepares you for entry-level jobs like welder, fabricator, or pipefitter in construction, manufacturing, and repair industries.
The median annual wage for welders was $51,000 in 2024, with higher pay in specialized fields like pipeline or underwater welding.
Online programs offer flexibility to study while working and reduce costs tied to housing, commuting, or campus fees.

What can I expect from an online welding trade school program?

Online welding trade programs teach you the basics of welding safety, blueprint reading, metal fabrication, and welding techniques. Most include a core curriculum followed by a capstone project or hands-on training. Some programs also require internship hours at a local welding shop or partner facility.

Tuition typically ranges from $5,000 to $26,000, depending on the school and length of the program.

Online classes are often delivered through videos, interactive modules, and virtual simulations. Some programs may offer live sessions, but most are self-paced. While theory and safety are covered online, hands-on skills must be completed in person. Many schools partner with local centers or allow students to schedule lab work close to home.

Where can I work with an online welding trade degree?

An online welding trade degree opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities across several industries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2023, the industries with the highest levels of employment for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers include:

Machinery Manufacturing: Employs approximately 4,720 welders.
Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturing: Employs around 4,320 welders.
Fabricated Metal: Employs nearly 6,600 welders.
Motor Vehicle Manufacturing: Employs around 2,660 welders.

How much can I make with an online welding trade degree?

Welding professionals earn competitive wages across industries. The following roles had 2024 median pay according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and related sources, with the national median for all occupations at $24.52 per hour:

Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers: $24.52 per hour; $51,000 per year
Welding Supervisors/Inspectors: $31.97 per hour; $66,492 per year
Pipe Welders (Specialized Field): $28 per hour; $57,707 per year
Welding Engineers (with advanced credentials): $42 per hour; $86,554 per year

Earnings increase with experience, certifications, and job location. States like Alaska and Washington offer the highest average wages in the field.

List of the Best Online Welding Trade School Programs for 2025
How long does it take to complete an online welding trade degree program?
How does an online welding trade degree program compare to an on-campus program?
What is the average cost of an online welding trade degree program?
What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online welding trade degree program?
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online welding trade degree program?
What courses are typically in an online welding trade degree program?
What types of specializations are available in an online welding trade degree program?
How to Choose the Best Online Welding Trade Degree Program
What career paths are available for graduates of an online welding trade degree program?
What is the job market for graduates with an online welding trade degree program?
What challenges might students encounter in an online welding trade degree program?
How can you verify the credibility and industry connections of an online welding trade degree program?
How are technological advancements shaping online welding trade programs?
Other Things You Should Know About Online Welding Trade Degree Programs

List of the Best Online Welding Trade School Programs for 2025

How do we rank schools?

Paying for a degree is a major investment, so our rankings are designed to help students make informed decisions using clear, accurate data. We rely on trusted sources like the IPEDS database, Peterson's database, the College Scorecard, and The National Center for Education Statistics to evaluate and rank online electrical lineworker trade degree programs. To see how we analyze this data, visit Research.com's methodology page.

1. New England Institute of Technology (A.S. in Welding Engineering Technology)

The Associate in Welding Engineering Technology at New England Institute of Technology combines theoretical instruction with hands-on training in advanced welding techniques, materials science, and fabrication. Students gain experience with modern welding tools and robotic systems, preparing them for technical roles in manufacturing, construction, and engineering fields.

Program Length: 18 months
Required Credits to Graduate: 103 to 105
Cost: $725 per credit hour (Full-priced program) / $500 per credit hour (Reduced-priced programs)
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

2. Midlands Technical College (A.A.S. in Welding Technology)

Midlands Technical College Welding Technology program blends classroom instruction with hands-on training in structural and pipe welding. Students learn a variety of welding processes, including MIG, TIG, and stick, while also studying fabrication techniques, metallurgy, and blueprint interpretation to prepare for skilled trade employment.

Required Credits to Graduate: 62
Cost: $12,400 tuition cost
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

3. Bates Technical College (A.A.S. in Welding)

Students in the welding program at Bates Technical College receive hands-on training in core techniques like shielded metal arc, gas metal arc, gas tungsten arc, and flux-cored arc welding. Emphasizing industry standards, the curriculum builds skills in layout, fabrication, and blueprint interpretation to support certification and job readiness.

Program Length: 6 quarters
Required Credits to Graduate: 98 to 101
Cost: $4,759.56 per quarter (Resident) / $12,382.98 per quarter (Nonresident)
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) and the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC)

4. Tulsa Welding School – Jacksonville (A.O.S. in Welding Technology)

Blending core welding techniques with specialized pipefitting skills, the Associate of Occupational Studies program at Tulsa Welding School offers advanced training in fabrication and metallurgy. Through a mix of classroom instruction and immersive hands-on practice, students prepare for technical careers in industries like construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing.

Program Length: 14 months
Cost: $18,000 tuition cost
Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)

5. Texas State Technical College (A.A.S. in Welding Technology)

Texas State Technical College Welding Technology program prepares students for careers in structural and pipe welding through hands-on training in SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, and fabrication. The program emphasizes technical skills, safety, and real-world applications to meet the demands of various industries, including manufacturing and construction.

Program Length: 16 months
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Cost: $18,420 tuition cost
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

6. Riverside City College (A.S. in Welding Technology)

Hands-on experience in structural, pipe, and fabrication welding is at the heart of the Welding Technology program at Riverside City College, where students train using SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, and GTAW methods. The curriculum also covers blueprint reading, metallurgy, and inspection techniques to support certification and entry into technical careers.

Program Length: 12 to 18 months
Required Units to Graduate: 41 to 44
Cost: $46 per unit (Resident) / $415 per unit (Nonresident)
Accreditation: Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACCJC/WASC)

7. Austin Community College (A.A.S. in Entrepreneurship - Structural Welding Specialization)

With a strong focus on structural and pipe welding techniques, the Welding Technology AAS program at Austin Community College teaches students to work with SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, and GTAW methods. Alongside technical training, the program includes coursework in fabrication, metallurgy, blueprint reading, and safety to help students earn certifications and enter the skilled trades workforce.

Program Length: 2 years
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Cost: $5,418 (In-district) / $17,478 (Out-of-district) / $21,498 (Out-of-state) tuition cost
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

8. Western Technical College (Advanced Welding Certification)

Western Technical College Advanced Welding Technology program focuses on structural, pipe, and high-pressure welding techniques used in industries like manufacturing, construction, and energy. Students gain hands-on experience with SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, and GTAW processes, along with blueprint reading, safety standards, and preparation for industry-recognized welding certifications.

Program Length: 52 weeks (Day & Evening) / 38 weeks (Fast track)
Required Credits to Graduate: 39
Cost: $25,444.96 total cost
Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)

9. Community College of Denver (A.A.S. in Fabrication Welding)

The Community College of Denver offers a Fabrication Welding AAS program designed for careers in manufacturing and construction, emphasizing advanced welding techniques and fabrication skills. Through hands-on training in SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, and blueprint reading, students also prepare for key certifications and safety standards.

Program Length: 4 semesters
Required Credits to Graduate: 65
Cost: $339.68 per credit hour (Resident) / $883.03 (Nonresident)
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

10. John A. Logan College (A.A.S. in Welding Technology)

Preparing students for careers in structural, pipe, and fabrication welding, the Welding Technology AAS degree at John A. Logan College combines classroom instruction with hands-on lab experience. The program focuses on multi-process welding skills, blueprint interpretation, and safety standards aligned with industry needs.

Required Credits to Graduate: 62
Cost: $160 per credit hour
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

How long does it take to complete an online welding trade degree program?

Most online welding programs take 6 months to 2 years to complete, based on the program type and schedule. Accelerated programs allow completion in 4 to 6 months for motivated students with self-paced or intensive formats.

Programs blend online theory with essential hands-on training. Local labs or partner shops provide this in-person experience. Many include apprenticeships or externships lasting 6 months to 1 year, which are critical for real-world skills and certification.

You can achieve welder certification through online trades schools, but you must still complete the required hands-on hours before testing. Typical welding apprenticeships last around one year, combining training and on-the-job work.

Trade school attracts students in their mid‑20s to late‑20s (average age ~22–28). In fact, many learners are younger than 30. Job prospects are strong: welding roles are forecast to grow about 2% from 2023–33, and 4% through 2025 in related roles.

Program completion rates in trade schools are high, often exceeding those at four‑year colleges, and certified welders see notable earnings boosts, with median pay around $50,000–$51,000 annually compared to the general workforce.

How does an online welding trade degree program compare to an on-campus program?

Online welding programs can match on-campus programs in certification, training quality, cost, and outcomes when you choose wisely. In fact, many institutions that offer online welding also provide some of the cheapest home remodeling and repair trade school programs online, making it easier for students to explore multiple trades with a level of flexibility and without taking on heavy debt.

Same certifications: Accredited online programs offer the same credentials (like AWS) as traditional schools.
Training quality: When they include hands-on labs or partner-site workshops, online programs teach the same practical skills.
Employer perception: About 87% of employers hired online-degree graduates in 2024 and pay them the same as on-campus grads. Strong institutions help this trust.
Student satisfaction and completion: Around 70% of students prefer online learning, and 95% would recommend it. Completion rates for online trade programs often exceed those in traditional settings.
Cost savings: Online programs cut costs for commuting, meals, housing, and campus fees, saving learners thousands compared to on-campus paths.

What is the average cost of an online welding trade degree program?

The average cost of an online welding trade program ranges from $5,000 to $15,000, with some certificate courses costing as little as $2,800–$3,000 and associate-level paths reaching up to $15,000 or more. This is generally more affordable when compared to the electrical technician school cost, which can sometimes exceed these ranges depending on the program and location.

Pricing tiers

Here’s how the cost of online welding programs typically break down by training level.

Short certificate courses: ~$3,000
Year-long or associate programs: $5,000–$15,000
Some advanced training or private schools may cost $20,000+

Added expenses

Expect to budget $1,000–$1,500 for a complete welding tool kit, materials, and lab fees—typically not included in tuition.

Comparative savings

Online programs eliminate costs like commuting, housing, and campus fees, often saving students tens of thousands versus on-campus options. Similarly, students researching related trades—such as carpentry or renovation—can compare pricing with the cheapest home remodelling and repair programs online, which often provide equally flexible, low-cost pathways into hands-on careers.

Cost inflation

Vocational program tuition tends to increase by about 3–5% annually.

Financial aid

Around 70% of trade students use federal aid—Pell Grants, loans, and scholarships—for support. Trade students incur lower average student debt than four-year college graduates.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online welding trade degree program?

You can access several financial aid tools to fund your online welding program, including federal aid, grants, scholarships, loans, and employer support.

Federal Financial Aid

Students at accredited online programs can complete the FAFSA to access:

Pell Grants
Subsidized and unsubsidized loans
Parent PLUS loans: About 70% of trade students received aid this way in 2023.

Grants and Scholarships

Trade-specific awards range from $1,000 to $7,400. Platforms like Bold.org host over 90 scholarship opportunities for vocational students. Many schools also offer institutional scholarships

Student Loans

Federal student loans typically offer lower interest rates and flexible repayment. Default rates for trade program loans are under 10%, lower than for traditional college loans

Employer-Sponsored Aid

Between 5–10% of employers offer tuition reimbursement as of 2025. Some welding employers also fund apprenticeship-based education

Many of these same funding options are also available for students pursuing the cheapest HVAC training programs online, making it easier to explore multiple skilled trades without breaking the bank.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online welding trade degree program?

You typically need a high school diploma or GED and must be at least 17 or 18 years old to enroll in an online welding trade program.

Below are the basic education requirements for online welding trade degree program:

Educational background

A high school diploma is usually required; GEDs are also accepted. About 80–90% of trade students have a diploma rather than a GED.

Age requirement

Most programs require students to be at least 17, with 18 needed by program completion.

Academic readiness

No welding experience is required. Programs expect basic math and science skills, especially in fractions, decimals, geometry, volume, and measurement calculations. For example, the fastest online digital photography degree programs also emphasize meeting certain baseline educational requirements before enrollment, making it easier for students to pivot between technical and artistic disciplines.

Some programs also require the following:

A physical or vision exam
Ability to lift 50 lbs, bend, and stand for extended periods
Drug screenings for programs that include in-person labs or externships

The average student age in welding programs falls between 22 and 28 years old, and trade programs tend to have lower dropout rates compared to traditional colleges, reflecting stronger retention regardless of academic background.

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What courses are typically in an online welding trade degree program?

An online welding program generally combines theory and hands-on training, covering core welding concepts, safety procedures, and specialized techniques.

Welding Fundamentals: The welding fundamentals cover terminology, electrical theory, metal types, joint design, and an introduction to welding methods.
Safety and Health in Welding: Includes training on fume exposure, burn prevention, fire risks, personal protective equipment (PPE), and ergonomic practices.
Blueprint Reading and Welding Symbols: Focuses on interpreting technical drawings and applying them in weld planning.
Welding Math and Measurements: Teaches fractions, geometry, volume, and measurement conversions used in welding applications.
Welding Processes: MIG (GMAW), TIG (GTAW), Stick (SMAW), and Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) techniques.
Cutting Methods: Oxy-fuel and plasma cutting for preparing and finishing weld joints.
Advanced Welding and Certification Prep: Includes specialized TIG or multi-process training with up to 300 hours of practice to prepare for AWS certifications.
Quality Control and Inspection: Emphasizes weld inspection, defect identification, and industry standards.

These programs typically include video-based instruction and lab work arranged through local facilities to ensure hands-on experience, essential for career readiness in fields like fabrication, aerospace, or pipe welding. While welding coursework is highly specialized, students who enjoy visual creativity and design-oriented problem-solving might also explore fast-track online graphic design degrees, which—like welding—blend technical precision with artistic skill, opening additional career pathways in creative industries.

What types of specializations are available in an online welding trade degree program?

Online welding programs often offer several high-demand specializations like pipe welding, underwater welding, aerospace welding, nuclear welding, and welding inspection. These focused training tracks are comparable in scope and career impact to online HVAC training courses, which also provide industry-specific skills leading to certification and employment.

Pipe welding

Covers joining pipes for gas, oil, water, and chemical transport. Certified pipe welders earn between $60,000 and $90,000 annually, and experienced pipeline welders can make up to $175,000.

Underwater welding

Ranks among the highest-paid welding careers. These welders, who also complete commercial diving training, can earn between $55,000 and $290,000, with top earners reaching over $100,000. However, the work is demanding and comes with risks.

Aerospace welding

Focuses on aircraft and spacecraft metalwork, with salaries averaging $63,500, and nuclear welding roles offer similar pay.

Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)

This is another type of specialization. Inspectors earn between $64,000 and $120,000, and this role emphasizes quality assurance and standards compliance.

Students seeking to broaden their skill sets or explore cross-training opportunities might also consider enrolling in the cheapest maintenance technician classes online, which can complement welding expertise with mechanical systems knowledge and general repair training.

Specialized certifications in all these fields boost job opportunities and pay. As of 2025, demand is highest in pipeline infrastructure, underwater, aerospace, and nuclear sectors.

How to Choose the Best Online Welding Trade Degree Program

To choose the right online welding programs, focus on quality indicators like accreditation, class size, job placement, and certification prep. Here are the key steps:

1. Check Accreditation

Make sure the program is accredited by recognized bodies like the American Welding Society (AWS) or the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). Accreditation affects financial aid access, certification eligibility, and employer recognition.

2. Compare Student-to-Instructor Ratios

Smaller ratios (ideally 16:1 or less) allow for better interaction, support, and feedback during training.

3. Review Student Satisfaction Scores

Programs with high satisfaction (typically 80% or above) are more likely to offer strong instruction, reliable technology, and support services.

4. Evaluate Job Placement Support

Look for schools with 80–90% job placement rates and dedicated services like resume help, mock interviews, and industry partnerships.

5. Assess Total Cost and Value

Compare tuition, fees, tools, and lab access. Online trade programs average $14,500—far more affordable than a four-year degree. Many students also compare these costs with other career-focused online options, such as fast-track online architecture degrees, which similarly emphasize skill-building in a condensed timeline while preparing graduates for industry-specific certification and job opportunities.

6. Confirm Certification Preparation

Ensure the program prepares students for AWS certifications, such as Certified Welder or Certified Welding Inspector. Check the school’s website or ask admissions for details.

What career paths are available for graduates of an online welding trade degree program?

Graduates of online welding programs can access a wide range of roles across multiple industries, from hands-on fieldwork to technical and supervisory positions. Many of these roles appear on a typical trade school careers list. Here are some of the main paths:

Entry-Level Positions

Welders, cutters, solderers, and braziers typically earn $30,000–$40,000 starting out, with median wages around $51,000 per year.

Industry Specializations

Careers in construction, energy, aerospace, maritime, and manufacturing offer steady demand for skilled welders.

Advanced Roles

Some welding careers offer higher pay and responsibility through advanced roles that require experience or specialized certification.

Pipefitters and Structural Welders: Average salaries range from $58,000 to $71,000.
Pipeline Welders: Can earn $80,000 to $120,000+, depending on location and certifications.

Certification-Based Jobs

Certified Welding Inspectors often make between $64,000 and $120,000 annually.

Career Advancement Opportunities

Many welders move into supervisory or inspection roles within 5–10 years, with high demand for experienced professionals.

Union Welding Jobs

Around 20–25% of welders are union members, with benefits like better job security, higher wages, and health coverage.

Much like the shortest homeland security online programs that offer fast entry into high-demand roles, welding trade degrees provide streamlined pathways into essential sectors with clear opportunities for advancement.

What is the job market for graduates with an online welding trade degree program?

Job prospects for online welding graduates are strong. The American Welding Society projects a need for about 82,500 new welders annually between 2024 and 2028, with a total need of 320,500 skilled professionals by 2029. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the sector to grow at 2% through 2033, and sees 45,800 annual openings due to retirements or career changes.

The most robust hiring occurs in manufacturing, construction, energy, maritime, and infrastructure industries, some of the same sectors that also rely on the best foundation repair companies to maintain safety and structural integrity. States like Texas, California, Florida, and Colorado offer the most job listings, with major hubs such as Houston and Denver leading demand.

Unemployment for welders remains low, hovering around 2–3%, reflecting healthy demand. Many graduates of online welding programs report finding work within 3–6 months after graduation, shorter than many college pathways.

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What challenges might students encounter in an online welding trade degree program?

While online welding trade programs deliver flexibility and cost savings, students may face challenges in securing consistent hands-on training experiences and aligning remote theory with local lab work. Variability in local partner quality and scheduling logistics can affect the seamless integration of practical skills. Additionally, self-discipline is critical to manage the dual demands of online coursework and in-person practice. Evaluating program support systems, lab access, and hands-on supervision can mitigate these issues. Comparing options such as the best associate degree in 6 months online is essential to ensure the chosen program meets both educational and practical training needs.

How can you verify the credibility and industry connections of an online welding trade degree program?

Prospective students should examine whether the program holds recognized accreditation from bodies such as the American Welding Society or ACCSC, and review established industry partnerships that facilitate quality hands-on training and apprenticeships. Evaluating instructor qualifications, documented safety protocols, and lab reliability can further confirm adherence to industry standards. Comparing these elements with benchmarks provided by sources like the easiest bachelor's degree offers additional insights into program credibility and long‑term career outcomes.

How are technological advancements shaping online welding trade programs?

Modern online welding programs increasingly integrate innovative digital tools to enhance skill development beyond traditional methods. Advanced simulation platforms, augmented reality modules, and interactive virtual labs are tailored to replicate real-world welding scenarios, thereby reinforcing precision and safety standards. These technological enhancements not only streamline remote learning but also support adaptive training methods that respond to evolving industry requirements. Many programs now align with contemporary educational practices similar to those pursued in the fastest online masters programs, facilitating a balanced approach between theory and hands-on experience.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say about Online Welding Trade School Programs

Taking classes online let me keep my warehouse job while building skills for a better future. The structure of the modules made it easy to follow each welding process step by step. Once I got to the in-person labs, I already understood the tools and safety protocols, which helped me get comfortable quickly. — Jeremy

I wasn’t sure how welding would translate to an online format, but the program broke it down in a way that made sense. The video tutorials, quizzes, and virtual simulations helped me practice before trying it in real life. Being able to work through the material while caring for my daughter made the experience manageable. — Greg

The online program gave me a strong foundation in blueprint reading, metallurgy, and safety. By the time I started my internship, I already felt prepared for what would be expected on the job. It was a practical and focused way to get into a trade I’d been curious about for years. — Brody

Key Findings

The U.S. needs approximately 82,500 new welders each year from 2024 to 2028, with 320,500 total skilled positions expected to open by 2029.
87% of employers hired graduates from online programs in 2024, and 95% of online welding students would recommend their program.
Online welding trade programs typically cost $5,000–$26,000, with some certificate courses as low as $2,800–$3,000.
The average age of welding students ranges from 22 to 28, and 80–90% hold a high school diploma rather than a GED.
Entry-level welders earn $30,000–$40,000, while median pay across the field is around $51,000 annually, with specialization roles reaching $120,000+.

Other Things You Should Know About Online Welding Trade Degree Programs

What is the highest-paying welding job?

The highest‑paying welding roles are underwater welders and welding engineers, who can earn average salaries of $96,900–$115,000 yearly in 2024. Underwater welders, who combine welding skills with commercial diving, typically earn $68,000, but experienced professionals often reach six‑figure incomes, some making over $200,000.

Welding engineers, who develop methods and oversee weld processes, average about $86,500 annually. These roles require advanced training and certifications but offer top compensation compared to general welder averages, around $52,600.

What type of welding is most in demand?

The most in-demand welding process in 2024 is MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding. MIG welding skills are highly sought after across key industries like construction, automotive, infrastructure, and clean-energy projects due to their speed, efficiency, and adaptability.

Demand for electric welding machines, which predominantly use MIG technology, is growing at a 7–8% CAGR, and MIG welders fill a significant share of nearly 82,500 annual welding job openings. Employers often prioritize candidates certified in MIG welding because this process suits mass production and automated lines.

Should a beginner use a MIG or ARC welder?

Beginners should start with a MIG welder. It is easier to learn and offers cleaner, faster welds with less fuss. MIG welding uses an auto wire-feed system and shielding gas, so beginners can “pull the trigger and weld” even with minimal skill. Stick welding (ARC) is cheaper and works outdoors or on rusty metal, but it needs more control over the arc and produces slag. Reddit users say MIG “gives a better result with much less hassle” for hobbyists.

Is welding future-proof?

Welding remains a future-proof career in 2024 for skilled professionals. The American Welding Society projects a shortage of about 400,000 welders by 2024 due to retirements.

Although robotics and automation are growing, they mostly assist rather than replace humans—robots handle repetitive jobs, while welders perform complex and precision tasks. Industry experts expect a partnership between man and machine, not the elimination of roles. Moreover, automation is expanding the demand for welders who can program, troubleshoot, and manage these systems.