Discover how to become a rig welder with step-by-step tips, skills, certifications, and salary insights for a high-paying welding career.
How to become a rig welder starts with understanding this simple path:
Quick Answer:1. Get your high school diploma or GED2. Complete welding training (7 months to 2 years)3. Gain apprenticeship experience (3-4 years)4. Earn AWS certifications and TWIC card5. Apply for rig welding positions through job boards like Rigzone
Rig welders earn an average of $75,000+ per year in states like Oklahoma, with experienced welders making over $100,000 annually. But the money comes with serious responsibility—you're the person keeping multi-million dollar oil rigs running safely in some of the harshest environments on Earth.
From scorching desert heat to freezing offshore platforms, rig welders work where others won't. You'll be welding high-pressure pipelines, repairing critical equipment, and ensuring the structural integrity of massive drilling operations. One bad weld can shut down an entire rig.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 45,800 annual job openings for welders through 2033, and rig welding sits at the top of the pay scale. With America's energy independence depending on skilled tradesmen, there's never been a better time to learn how to become a rig welder.
As someone who's spent over 20 years welding in the oil and gas industry, I've seen what it takes to build a successful rig welding career. My name is William "Stick" Mank, and I'll show you exactly how to become a rig welder—from your first certification to landing that six-figure job.
Picture this: You're standing on a massive steel platform in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico, 200 feet above churning waves. The wind is howling at 40 mph, and you need to repair a critical pipeline that's keeping millions of barrels of oil flowing to American refineries. This is what rig welders do—we're the skilled craftsmen who keep America's energy infrastructure running, no matter what Mother Nature throws at us.
A rig welder is a specialized welding technician who works on oil and gas drilling operations, both onshore and offshore. We fabricate, repair, and maintain the metal structures that make energy production possible. We're talking about high-pressure pipelines, structural supports, pressure vessels, and drilling equipment that must perform flawlessly in extreme conditions.
The work demands mastery of multiple welding processes. SMAW (Stick welding) is your bread and butter for structural work and repairs. GTAW (TIG welding) handles precision work on stainless steel and exotic alloys. FCAW (Flux-core welding) gets the job done fast in windy conditions where stick won't cooperate.
What sets rig welding apart is the high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) welding requirements. You're not just joining metal—you're creating joints that might hold 10,000 PSI of pressure while dealing with temperatures that would melt regular steel. One bad weld can mean environmental disaster, millions in losses, and lives at risk.
Every day brings blueprint reading, inspection duties, and quality testing using non-destructive methods. You'll work with everything from basic carbon steel to exotic alloys that cost more per pound than silver.
Your daily routine as a rig welder depends on whether you're working maintenance, emergency repairs, or new construction. Fabrication work might have you building new pipeline sections from blueprints, cutting and fitting complex joints that need to be perfect the first time.
Repair welding is where the real pressure kicks in. When a critical component fails at 3 AM and the rig is losing $100,000 per hour in downtime, you're the person everyone's counting on. You'll diagnose stress cracks, fix corrosion damage, and get equipment back online fast.
Maintenance welding keeps problems from becoming disasters. This means reinforcing joints before they fail, replacing worn components during scheduled shutdowns, and doing preventive repairs that save millions down the road.
Quality testing is non-negotiable in this business. You'll use dye penetrant testing, magnetic particle inspection, and other NDT methods to verify your welds meet strict specifications. Every joint gets documented and certified.
Collaboration with fitters and other trades is constant. Pipeline work especially requires tight coordination—the fitter positions and aligns the pipe, you lay down the root pass, they check fit-up, and you complete the weld. It's teamwork that demands mutual respect and clear communication.
On offshore rigs, you might work 12-hour shifts for 14 days straight, then get 14 days off. Land-based rigs often run 24/7 operations, meaning you could be welding at 2 AM in a North Dakota blizzard or during a Texas dust storm.
Rig welders work in some of the most challenging environments in American industry. Offshore platforms in the Gulf of Mexico put you 100+ miles from shore, living on the rig for weeks and commuting by helicopter. The salt air eats through everything, winds never stop, and you're welding on structures that flex with 20-foot swells.
Desert land rigs across Texas, Oklahoma, and North Dakota test your limits differently. Summer temperatures hit 120°F with no shade, while winter drops to -20°F with wind chills that freeze exposed skin in minutes. You'll work in open air with minimal shelter, welding pipe in conditions that would send office workers running.
Refineries and processing plants require welding around active operations. Hot work permits, gas monitoring, and strict safety protocols are the norm. You might be welding a new connection while crude oil flows through pipes just feet away.
Shipyards building offshore support vessels demand marine-grade welding skills. The materials are different, the environment is corrosive, and the geometries are complex. But the pay reflects the specialized knowledge required.
Confined spaces like storage tanks, pressure vessels, and pipeline bellholes present unique challenges. Ventilation is limited, escape routes are restricted, and the work requires special permits and safety procedures. It's not for everyone, but it pays well for those who can handle it.
This is the reality of how to become a rig welder—you're signing up for demanding work in tough conditions. But for those with the skills and determination, it's a career that pays well and keeps America's energy flowing.
Learning how to become a rig welder isn't something that happens overnight. The path typically takes anywhere from 3 to 7 years from your first welding class to landing that high-paying rig position. But here's the thing—every month of training and experience pays dividends when you're earning $75,000 to $100,000+ per year.
The timeline breaks down like this: you'll need your high school diploma or GED first, then 7 months to 2 years of formal welding education. After that comes the apprenticeship phase—3 to 4 years where you'll work as a helper while learning the ropes from seasoned rig welders.
For offshore work, you'll also need a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card, which requires passing a federal background check. Some companies also want certifications like H2S Alive training, confined space entry permits, and first aid certification before they'll put you on a rig.
The investment in time and training is significant, but so is the payoff. Most rig welders I know say the hardest part was getting started—once you're in the industry, opportunities open up fast.
Your journey starts with a high school diploma or GED—no exceptions here. Rig welding demands solid math skills for calculating heat input and understanding metallurgy. You'll also need decent communication abilities since you're working with teams where a misunderstood instruction can mean disaster.
Vocational welding programs are your next step, and they range from intensive 7-month certificates to comprehensive 2-year associate degrees. Community colleges and trade schools offer the most hands-on training that employers actually value. I've seen too many welders struggle because their program was heavy on theory but light on torch time.
When you're shopping for a program, look for minimum 400 hours of hands-on welding time. You want training in SMAW (stick), GMAW (MIG), GTAW (TIG), and FCAW (flux-core) processes. Blueprint reading and welding symbols are essential, along with metallurgy basics and OSHA safety standards.
Tuition runs anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 depending on program length and location. Many schools offer financial aid, and some employers will reimburse your tuition if you commit to working for them after graduation. It's worth asking around—the oil and gas industry is always hungry for qualified welders.
| Training Path | Duration | Cost Range | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trade School Certificate | 7-18 months | $5,000-$15,000 | Entry-level welder |
| Community College Associate | 2 years | $8,000-$20,000 | Better advancement opportunities |
| Apprenticeship Only | 3-4 years | Paid training | Field-specific skills |
AWS Certified Welder credentials are the gold standard in this industry. The American Welding Society offers several certifications, but for rig work, you'll want to focus on AWS D1.1 Structural Steel for platform and derrick work, API 1104 Pipeline for pipeline welding (this one's essential for most rig positions), and AWS D1.1 6G for pipe welding in all positions.
State licensing requirements vary quite a bit. Some states require welders to be licensed through the state, while others rely on employer certification. It's worth checking your state's requirements before you start looking for work—nobody wants surprises when they're ready to start earning.
The TWIC card is mandatory for offshore work. This Transportation Security Administration credential costs about $125 and takes 4 to 6 weeks to process. You'll need to pass a federal background check and provide fingerprints. Start this process early because offshore jobs often come up fast.
Additional certifications that make you more marketable include H2S Alive training for hydrogen sulfide awareness, confined space entry certification, first aid and CPR, fall protection, and OSHA 30-hour construction safety. These might seem like paperwork, but they show employers you take safety seriously.
Most certifications require renewal every 2 to 3 years, and you'll need to pass practical weld tests to maintain them. Here's some hard-earned advice: practice your test welds until you can pass them with your eyes closed. Test anxiety is real, and muscle memory will save you when the pressure's on.
For more comprehensive information about welding careers, the fundamentals remain consistent across all specializations, though rig welding sits at the top of the pay scale.
The 3 to 4 year apprenticeship is where you'll learn the skills that no classroom can teach. You'll start as a welder's helper, typically earning $16 to $20 per hour while learning from experienced rig welders who've been doing this for decades.
As a helper, you'll set up welding equipment and run leads, prepare materials by cutting, grinding, and beveling, and watch experienced welders to learn their techniques. You'll handle basic maintenance and repair tasks while learning to read weather conditions and work safely in challenging environments.
Pipe shop experience is incredibly valuable and many rig welders start in fabrication shops where they learn to weld pipe joints in controlled conditions before moving to field work. You'll master the 1G, 2G, 5G, and 6G welding positions that are standard throughout the industry.
NDT exposure through Non-Destructive Testing will teach you how welds are inspected using X-ray, ultrasonic, and magnetic particle testing. Understanding what inspectors look for makes you a significantly better welder and helps you avoid costly repairs.
The choice between union and non-union paths both have real advantages. Union apprenticeships often provide better benefits and structured training programs, while non-union positions may offer more flexibility and potentially faster advancement. About 80 to 90% of pipeline welders carry UA (United Association) certifications, which opens doors throughout the industry.
Resume and portfolio preparation can make or break your job search. Your resume should highlight welding certifications with current expiration dates, hours of hands-on experience by welding process, safety training and incident-free work record, and physical capabilities like lifting, climbing, and confined space work.
Your portfolio should include photos of your best welds, certification cards, and reference letters from instructors or supervisors. Don't underestimate the power of a clean, professional presentation—it shows you take pride in your work.
Weld test preparation is where many otherwise qualified candidates fail. Companies will test you in the specific positions and processes they use most often. Practice until you can consistently pass 6G pipe tests with X-ray quality. There's no substitute for repetition here.
For job searching, Rigzone.com specializes in oil and gas positions, while Indeed and Monster carry general welding jobs. Local union halls post apprenticeship opportunities, and industry conferences provide excellent networking chances. Don't overlook the power of word-of-mouth in this industry—welders talk, and a good reputation travels fast.
Recruiter outreach can fast-track your career since many rig welding contractors use specialized recruiters who understand the industry inside and out. Build relationships with them because they often know about positions before they're posted publicly.
When you get to the interview stage, emphasize safety consciousness above everything else. Show your willingness to work long hours and travel extensively. Demonstrate problem-solving abilities through specific examples, and ask about mentorship and advancement opportunities. Companies want welders who think long-term and grow with the organization.
When you're learning how to become a rig welder, you quickly realize this isn't your typical welding job. You need the technical know-how to work with exotic alloys that cost more per pound than your monthly rent, the physical stamina to weld for 12 hours straight in 110°F heat, and the mental toughness to stay focused when one bad weld could shut down a multi-million dollar operation.
The technical skills go way beyond just striking an arc. You'll need to read blueprints that look like engineering puzzles, understand metallurgy well enough to know why you can't use 7018 rod on certain stainless steels, and calculate heat input to prevent cracking on thick-wall pipe. Basic electrical theory helps too—especially when your engine-driven welder starts acting up at 2 AM in the middle of nowhere.
Blueprint reading and welding symbols become second nature after a few years. You'll learn to visualize complex 3D structures from 2D drawings and understand exactly what the engineer wants without having to ask. Pipe fitting and layout skills are equally important since you often need to fabricate parts that fit perfectly the first time.
The physical demands separate rig welders from shop welders. You'll lift 50+ pound pipe sections repeatedly, crawl through spaces barely wider than your shoulders, and weld overhead until your neck feels like it's going to snap. Excellent vision and steady hands are non-negotiable—you can't make quality welds if you can't see the puddle clearly or if your hands shake from fatigue.
Communication skills save lives on rigs. When someone yells "fire in the hole" or "gas leak," you need to understand immediately and react correctly. Clear communication with inspectors, engineers, and other trades prevents the kind of mistakes that make headlines for all the wrong reasons.
Your truck setup is your mobile workshop, office, and sometimes your shelter during storms. A properly rigged welding truck represents a $50,000-$100,000 investment, but it's what separates professional rig welders from weekend warriors.
The engine-driven welder is your bread and butter. You'll want something reliable like a Lincoln SA-200 that can run all day in desert heat or a Miller Vantage if you need TIG capabilities for stainless work. Water-cooled units handle the continuous duty cycles that rig work demands.
Welding leads need to be at least 100 feet long—you'll often park your truck far from the work area for safety. Nothing's worse than being 20 feet short on a critical repair job. Your oxy-acetylene setup handles heating, cutting, and bending tasks that come up constantly.
Grinders in multiple sizes (4.5", 7", and 9") tackle everything from cleaning welds to cutting thick plate. A quality beveling machine saves hours of prep work on pipe joints. Pipe alignment tools and fit-up clamps ensure your joints are perfect before you ever strike an arc.
Your consumables inventory needs to cover every situation. Keep 6010 and 7010 rods for root passes, 7018 for fill and cap passes, and TIG filler rods for exotic alloys. Running out of the right rod in the middle of a critical job isn't just embarrassing—it's expensive.
Truck setup starts with a one-ton minimum for payload capacity. A flatbed with lockable toolboxes protects your investment while keeping everything organized. Add a generator for power tools, an air compressor for pneumatic equipment, and proper tie-downs because nothing ruins your day like watching $10,000 worth of tools slide off your truck.
At Tentacle Tools, we design our specialty welding tools specifically for the challenges rig welders face. Our American-made tools are engineered by people who understand what it's like to work in extreme conditions where equipment failure isn't just inconvenient—it's dangerous.
Safety in rig welding isn't about following rules—it's about going home alive. The combination of high-pressure systems, flammable gases, extreme weather, and heavy equipment creates a workplace where small mistakes have big consequences.
Your PPE isn't optional. An ANSI-approved hard hat with chin strap protects against falling objects and high winds. Safety glasses with side shields guard against grinding sparks and debris. Your welding helmet needs an auto-darkening lens—manual helmets slow you down and create safety risks when you're working in awkward positions.
Leather welding jackets and chaps protect against burns from spatter and UV radiation. Steel-toed boots with metatarsal guards are essential when you're moving heavy pipe sections. Cut-resistant welding gloves save your hands from sharp edges and hot metal. When working at height, a fall protection harness is the difference between a close call and a tragedy.
Environmental hazards on rigs go beyond normal welding risks. H2S (hydrogen sulfide) gas can kill you in minutes, requiring constant gas monitoring. Extreme weather ranges from -40°F winters in North Dakota to 120°F summers in Texas. High winds on offshore platforms make welding challenging and dangerous.
Confined spaces like storage tanks and pressure vessels limit ventilation and escape routes. You'll need special training and permits for this work. The physical demands are relentless—12-hour shifts in demanding conditions, heavy lifting in awkward positions, and repetitive motions that stress your joints over time.
Heat stress is a real killer. Rig welders can lose 2-3 gallons of water per shift in hot climates. Proper hydration starts before your shift, cooling vests help in extreme heat, and scheduled breaks prevent heat exhaustion. Learn to recognize the signs of heat stress in yourself and your coworkers.
The scientific research on occupational welding hazards shows why safety training is so critical in this field. But beyond the statistics, it's about developing the mindset that every decision you make affects not just your safety, but everyone around you.
The financial rewards of rig welding reflect the skill level and risks involved. While the median salary for all welders was $48,940 in 2023, rig welders consistently earn significantly more due to the specialized nature of their work and demanding conditions.
Entry-level rig welders start at $40,000-$60,000 annually, but this quickly increases with experience and certifications. In Oklahoma, rig welders average $75,142 per year, with a range from $64,722 to $86,467.
Experienced rig welders can earn $60,000-$100,000+ annually, with top performers making even more. Offshore welders often earn the highest wages due to the additional hazards and skills required.
Factors affecting pay:- Experience level: Each year of experience typically adds $3,000-$5,000 to base salary- Certifications: AWS and API certifications can add $5,000-$10,000 annually- Geographic location: Alaska and offshore Gulf of Mexico pay premiums- Shift differentials: Night and weekend work often pays 10-20% more- Overtime opportunities: Many rig welders work 60-80 hour weeks during busy periods
Per diem and benefits significantly boost total compensation:- $50-$100 per day for meals and lodging when traveling- Health insurance and retirement contributions- Paid time off between rotations- Tool allowances and equipment reimbursements
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong demand for welders, with 45,800 annual job openings expected through 2033. For rig welders specifically, several trends are driving continued demand:
Energy independence initiatives are increasing domestic oil and gas production, requiring more infrastructure and maintenance welding.
Aging infrastructure needs constant repair and replacement. Many pipelines and offshore platforms built in the 1970s-80s are reaching the end of their design life.
Offshore market expansion is expected to grow rapidly through 2025, according to the International Energy Agency, creating demand for specialized offshore welders.
Technology integration is changing the field rather than eliminating jobs. Automated welding systems still require skilled operators, and complex repairs always need human expertise.
Renewable energy crossover opportunities are emerging as wind and solar farms need welders for construction and maintenance, often using similar skills to rig welding.
For current employment projections, the BLS data shows welding as one of the most stable skilled trades.
Career advancement in rig welding follows several paths:
Welding Inspector (CWI) positions pay $70,000-$90,000+ and involve less physical work. Certified Welding Inspectors ensure weld quality and code compliance.
Welding Supervisor roles manage teams of welders and coordinate projects. These positions require leadership skills and typically pay $80,000-$120,000.
QA/QC Technician positions focus on quality assurance and testing procedures, often leading to management roles in larger companies.
NDT Technician specializes in non-destructive testing methods, requiring additional certifications but offering stable, well-paid work.
Self-employed mobile rig welder is the ultimate goal for many. With your own truck and equipment, you can contract directly with operators and earn $100-$200+ per hour for specialized work.
Training and instruction opportunities exist at trade schools and training centers, combining field experience with teaching skills.
Let's be honest about what you're signing up for when you learn how to become a rig welder. This isn't your typical 9-to-5 job, and the six-figure paychecks come with challenges that will test everything you've got.
The high earning potential is real—top rig welders regularly bring home over $100,000 a year. You'll have job security in an industry that literally keeps America running, with opportunities to travel across the country and work on projects that most people only see in movies. The skill development you'll gain working with exotic metals and high-pressure systems opens doors throughout the industrial world.
There's something special about the camaraderie among rig welders. When you're working 200 miles offshore or in the middle of a North Dakota winter, your crew becomes family. You'll take pride in your work knowing that your welds keep the lights on and the economy moving.
But here's the reality check: rig welding is physically demanding work that's hard on your body, especially your back and joints. You'll spend time away from home on offshore rotations and travel assignments that can strain relationships. Weather exposure means welding in 120°F heat, -20°F cold, and winds that can knock you over.
The safety risks are real—high-pressure systems, toxic gases, and fall hazards require constant attention. Irregular schedules mean feast or famine work, and the equipment costs for a proper rig welding setup can run $50,000 or more.
Fatigue management separates successful rig welders from those who burn out. Twelve-hour shifts in extreme conditions drain you fast. Smart welders develop rock-solid routines for sleep, nutrition, and hydration. Cooling vests in summer and heated gear in winter aren't luxuries—they're survival tools.
Isolation and family stress hit harder than most people expect. Offshore rotations and long travel jobs test relationships. The key is quality communication and making your time off count. Many welders find that working 14 days offshore and having 14 days completely free actually improves their family time.
Equipment failure in the middle of nowhere can end your week and your paycheck. Experienced rig welders carry spare parts and backup equipment for everything critical. Learning basic equipment repair isn't just helpful—it's essential for staying productive.
Continuous learning keeps you employable as technology evolves. New welding processes, exotic materials, and updated safety codes require ongoing training. The welders who invest in education stay busy while others struggle to find work.
Mental toughness develops over time, but it's tested daily. The combination of physical demands, safety pressure, and isolation weeds out people fast. Building relationships with experienced welders who can mentor you through tough times makes all the difference.
Work-life balance requires intentional planning. Many successful rig welders use their higher income strategically—earning in 6-8 months what others make all year, then taking extended time off for family, hobbies, or other pursuits.
At Tentacle Tools, we understand these challenges because we've lived them. Our American-made specialty tools are designed by welders who know what it takes to succeed in the field, helping you work more efficiently and safely when the conditions get tough.
How to become a rig welder follows a realistic timeline of 3-7 years from your first day in welding school to landing your first qualified rig position. Here's the honest breakdown that nobody sugarcoats for you.
You'll spend 7 months to 2 years getting your formal welding education and basic certifications. This isn't just classroom time—you need hundreds of hours burning rod to develop muscle memory and understand how different metals behave under the torch.
Then comes the 3-4 year apprenticeship phase where you'll work as a welder's helper while building real-world experience. This is where you learn the skills they can't teach in school—like welding in a 40-mph crosswind or making repairs on equipment that can't be shut down.
Some folks try to shortcut this process, but the reality is that rig welding demands a level of skill and judgment that only comes with time. Military welders with relevant experience might move faster through the ranks, and occasionally you'll meet someone who advances quicker due to exceptional ability and work ethic.
But here's what I tell everyone asking this question: you can start earning money within the first year as a helper. The apprenticeship years aren't just learning time—they're paid positions where you're building your career foundation while supporting yourself.
This is one of the biggest misconceptions about offshore rig work. Most offshore rig welders never get wet during their entire careers. You'll be working on platform structures, equipment repairs, and piping systems that are well above the waterline.
Underwater welding, also called hyperbaric welding, is a completely separate specialty requiring additional training, certifications, and frankly, a different kind of crazy. It's dangerous work that pays extremely well, but it's not required for the majority of offshore rig welding positions.
That said, you do need to be comfortable around water. Offshore platforms are surrounded by ocean, and you'll deal with salt spray, work in areas where waves might splash up, and need basic water survival skills. Most companies require swimming ability and water safety training for offshore workers.
Emergency situations could require helicopter or boat evacuation, so being comfortable in water is important for safety reasons. But your daily welding work will be on dry platform decking, not underwater.
If underwater welding interests you, it's a separate career path that typically requires commercial diving certification and specialized welding training. But it's absolutely not a requirement for how to become a rig welder in the traditional sense.
SMAW (Stick welding) in the 6G position is the gold standard test that most rig welding jobs require. This test involves welding a pipe joint positioned at a 45-degree angle, which forces you to demonstrate welding skills in all positions—flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead.
The typical test sequence uses 6010 electrodes for the root pass to achieve good penetration, followed by 7018 electrodes for the fill and cap passes to build strength and provide a smooth finish. This combination mirrors what you'll actually do in the field when welding pipeline connections.
API 1104 pipeline certification is increasingly common and often required for pipeline rig work. This test is more stringent than basic AWS certifications because the welds will be X-rayed for internal defects. One small inclusion or lack of fusion means you fail and have to retest.
TIG (GTAW) testing is becoming more frequent as rigs use more exotic alloys like duplex stainless steel and Inconel for high-pressure, high-temperature applications. These materials require precise heat control that only TIG welding can provide.
Here's a pro tip from someone who's taken dozens of these tests: practice until you can pass the 6G test in your sleep. Test anxiety is real, and when you're nervous, muscle memory is what saves you. The welding processes haven't changed in decades, but the quality standards keep getting stricter as safety regulations evolve.
Learning how to become a rig welder isn't just about picking up a trade—it's about joining the backbone of American industry. With average salaries hitting $75,000+ and experienced welders pulling in over $100,000 annually, the numbers speak for themselves. But beyond the paycheck, you're becoming part of the crew that keeps our energy flowing and our economy moving.
The road from beginner to certified rig welder takes real commitment—3 to 7 years of grinding through education, training, and paying your dues in the field. There's no shortcut to mastering the skills that keep multi-million dollar rigs running safely. But for those willing to put in the work, rig welding delivers job security that most careers can't match.
At Tentacle Tools, we've spent decades watching welders build careers that support families and communities across America. Our American-made specialty welding tools aren't just manufactured here—they're engineered by a certified engineer and double-time welder who understands exactly what you face in the field. Every tool we design has been tested in the same harsh conditions where you'll be working.
We know that having the right tools is only half the battle. That's why we've built a dedicated job board connecting skilled tradespeople with opportunities nationwide. Whether you're fresh out of welding school or a seasoned pro looking for your next rotation, we're here to help you find work that puts your skills to good use.
The American spirit of hard work and determination that drives our brand is the same spirit that will carry you through those tough 12-hour shifts in freezing wind or desert heat. Every master welder started exactly where you are now—wondering if they had what it takes to make it in this demanding field.
Your journey starts with that high school diploma and quality welding program. From there, it's about building skills one bead at a time, earning certifications that open doors, and proving yourself reliable when the pressure's on. The rigs need skilled welders, and America's energy independence depends on people willing to do the hard work others won't.
Ready to get started? The path is proven, the demand is real, and the rewards are waiting. Take that first step today—because every expert was once a beginner, and your time to shine is coming.
For more information about specialty welding tools built specifically for the demands you'll face as a rig welder, check out our complete catalog of American-made solutions designed by welders, for welders.
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