Welding Shortage
Sacramento Welding Supply
In an article written by Luis de Leon of KVUE ABC, he highlights that the United States may see a big time shortage in welders in a few years. The American Welding Society (AWS) recently received data from Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI) and they are predicting a shortage of over 375,000 skilled welding professionals by 2023.
At Austin Community College, the department chair of the Welding Technology Program said that he has actually seen a slight increase in the number of students coming through the program. He stated that, “There’s been a lot of advertisement lately – because of the shortage of welders and I think people are starting to realize that this is a nice career. They can get a job in welding and work anywhere in the world or country.” Mr. Troy DeFrates is not wrong. Skilled welders have so many avenues they can pursue once they get the right education and training under their belt. But that’s the problem. Getting the right education and training.
To support students who are looking to receive the right welding education and training, Miller Electric and AWS are partnering up to provide 90 scholarships for welding students in 2020. They will award each of the 90 winning students a $2,000 scholarship to support their welding education – for a total of $180,000 in funds. To qualify, students 18 years or older who are currently enrolled in a full-time welding education program are eligible for the scholarship. Applicants must have a high school diploma, a GPA of 2.5 or higher, and be a U.S. citizen.
Miller is excited to encourage student learning, provide financial support, and promote the welding industry all at the same time. For those who are looking for a great career, consider welding! For more information stay tuned on our blog or visit us at Harris Gas.
