A photograph captures an oil rig welder in the foreground with offshore drilling equipment in the background during a welding operation.

What You Need to Know About Oil Rig Welding Salary and Work Conditions

Welding on oil rigs is among the most demanding yet financially rewarding jobs in the skilled trades. With long shifts, hazardous environments, and time away from home, the position requires both technical ability and mental toughness. However, for those willing to take on the challenge, the compensation can be substantial. In this article, we’ll explore…

A photograph captures a welder in the midst of welding a metal project in a garage workspace, with sparks flying and tools visible around the bench.

How to Make Money Welding on the Side: Practical Paths That Work

Turning your welding skills into a profitable side hustle is not only doable—it can be incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re a certified welder or someone who enjoys fabricating in your free time, side gigs in welding offer the freedom to earn extra cash, expand your network, and sharpen your craft. You don’t need a massive investment…

What MIG Welder Should I Buy: A Practical Guide for DIY Users

What MIG Welder Should I Buy: A Practical Guide for DIY Users

Choosing the right MIG welder can feel overwhelming, but the perfect machine depends on your goals, budget, and material needs. For many first-time welders, DIYers, and even small-shop fabricators, MIG welding offers the ideal balance of ease, versatility, and speed. Whether you’re repairing a trailer, building a BBQ pit, or fabricating a custom gate, MIG…

MIG vs Flux Core Welding: Choosing the Right Process for Your Needs

MIG vs Flux Core Welding: Choosing the Right Process for Your Needs

Welding is a foundational skill in metalwork, and for beginners and professionals alike, understanding the difference between MIG and flux core welding is essential. Each method has its own advantages, ideal use cases, and limitations. Choosing the right one can influence your project outcomes, welding efficiency, and long-term satisfaction with your gear. Understanding the Basics…

Gas vs No Gas MIG Welding: Which Setup Is Best for Your Needs?

Gas vs No Gas MIG Welding: Which Setup Is Best for Your Needs?

When it comes to MIG welding, one of the most important decisions a welder makes is whether to use a gas-shielded system or go gasless with flux-core wire. Both options offer unique advantages depending on the project, environment, and budget. Whether you’re a beginner setting up your first machine or an experienced welder considering a…

A digital photograph showcases a Hobart Handler 140 MIG welder with front control panel, wiring connections, and metal casing, positioned on a white background.

Best MIG Welder for Beginners: Top Picks That Balance Power and Ease

For anyone stepping into the world of metalwork, choosing the right MIG welder can make or break the learning experience. Beginners need a machine that’s user-friendly, safe, and versatile enough to cover basic to intermediate projects without a steep learning curve. MIG welding, known for its clean welds and relatively simple setup, is often the…

A welder in a protective helmet working with sparks flying in a fabrication shop

How Much Does a Welder Make a Year? A Look at Pay Across Experience and Industry

Welding is one of the most essential and widely used trades in the world. From building skyscrapers to repairing pipelines, welders play a key role in modern infrastructure. But many people considering this career path ask one important question: how much does a welder make a year? The answer depends on several factors like experience,…

A welder working on an aluminum piece in a workshop, with bright sparks illuminating the work area.

What Kind of Welder Do I Need to Weld Aluminum?

Welding aluminum requires a different approach compared to steel. Known for its lightweight nature and high thermal conductivity, aluminum poses unique challenges for welders. Whether you’re fabricating bike frames, repairing engine parts, or creating artistic pieces, choosing the right type of welder is essential to achieving clean, strong welds. Understanding Aluminum’s Welding Characteristics Aluminum has…

Illustration of a welding certificate, a pen, and a welder icon in a clean digital style.

How Long Does It Take to Get Welder Certification and Start Earning?

Welding is more than just joining metals—it’s a skilled trade that plays a vital role in construction, manufacturing, automotive work, and more. For those entering the field, getting certified is an essential step toward professional credibility, higher pay, and access to more specialized job opportunities. But one of the most common questions from beginners is:…

How to Weld Sheet Metal with a Wire Feed Welder: A Beginner-Friendly Guide

How to Weld Sheet Metal with a Wire Feed Welder: A Beginner-Friendly Guide

Welding sheet metal is a skill that many beginners aim to master, but it’s also one of the trickiest due to how thin and heat-sensitive the material is. Using a wire feed welder, often referred to as a MIG welder, simplifies the process significantly when done right. With the right technique and setup, you can…