Welding – it’s the backbone of countless industries, from construction and manufacturing to aerospace and automotive. And here in Virginia, it’s a vital skill set, with a higher percentage of welders employed than in many other states. But the world of welding isn’t static. It’s constantly evolving, with advanced welding technologies and techniques emerging all the time.
The American Welding Society (AWS) recently shared some eye-opening data about the welding workforce at FABTECH 2024. They’ve been tracking trends and looking at what employers are searching for in welders on their AWS Welding Workforce Data page, which gives us a glimpse into the future of the industry. Let’s dive into some of the cool trends happening in the welding world and VA.
Table of Contents
- A Brief History of Welding
- 5 Trends To Watch
- Robots
- AI
- Digital Welding
- New Materials
- Workforce Development
- GENEDGE’s new job opening and upcoming March event!
A Brief History of Welding
Welding in Virginia has a rich history, evolving from the blacksmiths of the colonial era to the advanced techniques used in today’s industries. It played a large role in the Civil War and boomed during the Industrial Revolution with the rise of companies like Newport News Shipbuilding and the construction of ships and railroads.
World Wars spurred further advancements, and post-war innovations led to even stronger welding methods like GTAW and GMAW. Today, Virginia remains a leader in welding technology with reputable schools like Tidewater Community College and Virginia Western supporting key industries and training skilled professionals.
Fun Facts:
- Newport News Shipbuilding has built over 800 ships, including the first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier!
- According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 8,000 welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers employed in Virginia, making a big impact on the state’s economy.
Innovations in Welding
Robots are Here to Help (Not Take Over!)
Automation is changing things with welding in manufacturing. Robots, cobots (those friendly robot helpers), and fancy automated systems are getting smarter and better. According to the American Welding Society (AWS), a whopping 35% of welding job postings are for welders/fabricators – and these automated systems can help boost productivity, improve consistency, and keep things safe.
But don’t worry, robots aren’t here to take everyone’s jobs! Cobots are designed to team up with human welders, making their work easier and letting them focus on the tricky stuff. Plus, Virginia is tackling the welder shortage head-on with initiatives like the Central Virginia Welding Wars (click here to see last year’s info), getting more young people into the field. After all, we need 330,000 more welders nationwide by 2028, according to AWS!
AI is Getting in on the Action
Yep, even welding is getting a dose of artificial intelligence (AI). AI systems can do some pretty cool things:
- Fine-tune the settings: AI can analyze what’s happening and adjust the welding settings in real-time to make the perfect weld.
- Quality control: AI-powered cameras can check welds for defects, making sure everything is top-notch and contributing to robust manufacturing quality systems. Implementing these AI-driven quality control measures can be complex, but GENEDGE can help by providing in-person training and shop floor implementation consulting services.
- Predict maintenance: AI can tell you when your equipment needs a tune-up, preventing breakdowns and saving you money.
Read GENEDGE’s most recent blog on AI and advanced welding technologies!
Welding Goes Digital
Welding isn’t just sparks and torches anymore. It’s going digital!
- Digital twins: This means creating a virtual copy of your welding process so you can test things out and make it perfect before you even start welding.
- Welding simulators: These are like video games for welders, helping them practice and learn new skills in a safe environment. This is similar to the hands-on training offered at Central Virginia Community College (CVCC).
- Cloud storage: All your welding data can be stored online, making it easy to share and access from anywhere.
Learn more about advanced manufacturing consulting.
New Materials, New Challenges
Welding isn’t just about steel anymore. We’re using lighter, stronger, and more sustainable materials like aluminum and high-strength steel, especially in cars and airplanes. This means we need new welding techniques through Virginia manufacturing business support:
- Friction stir welding: This is like mixing the metals together instead of melting them, perfect for aluminum.
- Laser welding: Super precise and great for delicate jobs.
- Electron beam welding: Uses a powerful beam of electrons to weld thick stuff and different kinds of metals together.
Welder Demand is Still High
Even with all this fancy tech, skilled welders are still super important. In fact, most employers are looking for welders with less than 3 years of experience, so now is a great time to get into the field! This is also a great opportunity for small shop owners to focus on improving workforce development to upgrade their existing teams.
- Level up your skills: Welders need to learn the new tech and keep getting better. AWS certifications and specific welding process skills (like MIG and TIG) are in high demand.
- Think on your feet: Welding isn’t just about following instructions anymore. You need to be able to solve problems and make smart decisions. Think critical thinking and blueprint reading!
Consult GENEDGE to Put These Ideas into Action.
Want to see the future of manufacturing in action? Then check out the VSMA & CESMII Smart Manufacturing Roadshow on March 27th at the Commonwealth Center for Advanced Manufacturing in Disputanta! It’s a full-day event packed with exciting speakers, live demos, and breakout sessions, all focused on the latest in smart manufacturing tech. You’ll get to explore cutting-edge advancements and connect with industry leaders by registering here.
While you’re there, don’t miss out on an exciting career opportunity—GENEDGE is hiring a Welding Training Supervisor in Norfolk! If you’re experienced in welding and passionate about workforce development, this role gives you the chance to lead training programs and help shape the future of welding education. Learn more and apply at GENEDGE Careers.
