A simple Internet search will reveal countless options for online welding classes, but many of these options will be unreliable, inefficient, overpriced, or difficult for some reason. It will therefore be necessary for you to do a bit more research about various online welding classes before you commit to one. One of the best ways to find the best classes is to ask other welders who have undergone such training. They may have recommendations of programs that worked well, as well as warnings about programs that were problematic or otherwise not very useful.
If you can't get reliable recommendations from other welders, consider contacting a local welder's union. Representatives may be able to give you a better understanding of what you should look for in online welding classes, especially if you intend to fulfill the requirements for joining the union or obtaining an apprenticeship. You can also contact construction companies or other companies that hire welders to get recommendations for online welding classes or even on-site welding classes at a school or other educational institution. Make sure any classes you choose will help you fulfill the requirements set forth by employers for getting hired to a welder's position.
Research each program to find the one that will suit your career goals as well as your financial needs. Some people, or example, take online welding classes to learn the basics about the welding process for home or hobby use; others take such classes to prepare themselves for the necessary certifications that will allow them to become professional welders. Have an idea of what your goals are before you enroll in online welding classes so you get the most out of the program and choose the appropriate coursework. If you intend to become a professional welder, make sure the classes will teach you more than just the basics so you will be prepared to get certified later on.
Remember that online courses will not give you the opportunity to do hands-on welding under the guidance or supervision of the instructor, so you will need to be proficient at self-directed learning. This means you will need to find access to a welder as well as scrap metal so you can practice on your own without guidance. Pay close attention to safety procedures — these should be covered in the online coursework — and make sure you have assembled all the proper safety equipment, as it will not be provided for you when you enroll in online welding classes.
