I want to get a job machining/welding/fabricating etc.. advice?

General
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I have never welded, machined, or fabricated anything before, but I am interested in getting a job in that field. Is there any advice for getting into this? I’m currently working in Antarctica until October, so I have some time. And at this point the closest thing I have to experience in that field is I am a heavy equipment operator here in Antarctica.. here there is a little more to the job than just operating equipment. I do also do a lot of work on the implements and equipment I use. Not mechanic work per se, but I occasionally use an angle grinder and change out the occasional part as well as using a pretty general range of power tools.

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Best thing you can do is get a job at a shop that makes the things you would like to make. On the job training is the best way to get your feet wet!
Some shops will want certified welders but many will hire and train inexperienced people as long as they show ambition and aptitude.
Pick the brains of every worker you can and show gratitude for what they teach you and be helpful to them every way you can, do that and they will be happy to teach you everything they know!

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You may want to get some basic training before going to a shop so you can be more clue-full and helpful. I went to my local career center and they had adult welding classes. It wasn’t too bad of a cost per class and it was only 3 evenings a week over 2 weeks for each of the 3 classes. It gave me some basic hands-on practice with stick, mig, and tig on mild steel, stainless, and aluminum, and I learned a lot. They even had us do a bend test. Given the low cost and time commitment, and what I got out of it, I would recommend.

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I would look around the area you are going to move, and see if there are some small shops looking for help. I look for younger kids during the summer to try and help me out, but I have yet to come across my younger self.

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Are you in McMurdo? If so go up to building 136 and get to know someone in the sheetmetal or plumbing shop. They should be able to get you set up with some scrap to work with and there is a nice syncrowave and a few other welders to practice with after dinner.

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