Jerem(y?),
WELCOME TO THE AWS WELDING FORUM!!First, NO, there is no newbie section. New welders jump in and take their licks like a man.
No, just ask away. Even if you aren't sure you have started a thread in the correct section. If it is really off in location the mods will move it. There has been no need for a newbie section since we are all learning.
Second, wages. That gets asked often. It all depends upon skills, experience, education, certifications, geographic location, type of work (pipeline, structural, aerospace, automotive, and so many more), and other considerations. We often see ads and hear of jobs being taken for less than $10/hr (people need to be shot for ruining the profession by taking those jobs, just walk away. Either they will come up or go out of business). We also know of those who make over $100,000 per year (pretty good hourly numbers there). But, for the most part you better be able to hit the $1000/week area and higher or you aren't going to be able to live nor feel good about your chosen career path. That's a hard statement to make but that's where the economy is, and that is what we need to think about. But, with your training thus far, good luck hitting $15 per hour. Keep going. One month isn't even a good start. One semester is barely a good START. Even if you are going full time.
Third, as to getting other certs, you need to check out the specifications detailing the qualifications. They are all different. If by inspector you are referring to CWI status, you will need 5 years of experience more or less. Less with a college degree more with less than a high school education. But, again, you need to go to the specifications that detail the requirements for the certification you are thinking about.
He Is In Control, Have a Great Day, Brent
