Welding Tips and Tricks

New to the forum and to welding. I was exposed to welding years ago in an apprentice carpentry class, but never pursued it. Worked as a union carpenter for 15 years, and now changing careers. Got a "spark" of interest last year while serving in Afghanistan as a heavy mobile equipment tech. But, I need some advice: planning to attend Hobart Institute in the Spring and want to get into aerospace or military support. What area(s) of welding should I concentrate on and/or develop while in training that would help me to become a well-rounded welder (and maximize my earning potential)? Thanks, for your input!!!

Welcome to the forum.

Welcome, ARCimedes,

I appreciate clever screen names.

There are several instructors here, and a few who work aerospace, so expect some well-qualified advice. I'm of the school of "learn it all", but you will need a starting point, of course. GTAW (TIG) is the most widely used manual process in aerospace. Automated and semi-automated processes there include orbital welding and friction stir.

Military support covers a pretty broad area, and I can see many processes that would be profitable there. Ballistic steel and aluminum are often welded with GMAW (MIG). Field repairs would require a knowledge of SMAW/MMA (Stick), as well. You've entered a pretty wide world, and your career choices only grow it.

Steve S

Welcome to the forum !