My First Steps into the World of Welding

Hey everyone!

I’m so excited to share my journey into the world of welding with you. My name is Rachel, and I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of creating things with my hands. Whether it's DIY projects at home or helping out with repairs, I love the sense of accomplishment that comes from building something tangible. So, I decided to take the plunge and learn how to weld!

Why Welding?

You might wonder why I chose welding out of all the possible skills I could learn. Well, welding is not just a trade; it’s an art form. It combines precision, creativity, and a bit of science. Plus, there’s something incredibly empowering about mastering a skill traditionally dominated by men. I want to break that stereotype and encourage more women to explore the trades.

Getting Started

The first step was to find a suitable welding class. I enrolled in a beginner’s course at a local trade school. The school provided all the necessary equipment, which was great because I had no idea what to buy or where to start.

My First Class

Walking into my first class, I was a bundle of nerves and excitement. The instructor, Misty, was welcoming and encouraged us to ask questions and learn at our own pace. We started with the basics: understanding different types of welding (MIG, TIG, and arc welding), safety protocols, and the essential gear we’d need.

Safety First!

Safety is paramount in welding. Misty emphasized the importance of wearing protective gear, such as a welding helmet, gloves, and a fire-resistant jacket. The helmet, with its auto-darkening feature, was especially cool. It protects your eyes from the intense light created during welding while allowing you to see your work clearly.

Hands-On Experience

After the safety briefing, it was time to get hands-on. We started with MIG welding, which is considered one of the easier techniques for beginners. I remember my heart pounding as I held the welding torch for the first time. Misty guided us through setting up the machine, adjusting the wire feed speed, and selecting the right voltage.

When I finally struck my first arc, I was amazed. It was like magic! The bright light, the heat, and the way the metal fused together was mesmerizing. Of course, my first welds were far from perfect—uneven and full of splatter—but I was proud of myself for taking that first step.

Challenges and Triumphs

Learning to weld is challenging. It requires patience, practice, and a steady hand. I had my fair share of frustrations, especially when my welds didn’t turn out as expected. But each mistake was a learning opportunity, and with Misty’s guidance and feedback, I slowly improved.

Looking Ahead

I’m just at the beginning of my welding journey, but I already feel a sense of accomplishment. I can’t wait to learn more advanced techniques and take on bigger projects. In the upcoming posts, I’ll share more about my experiences, the projects I’m working on, and tips for anyone interested in welding.

Thanks for joining me on this exciting adventure! If you have any questions or tips, feel free to leave a comment.

Until next time, keep sparking!

💙 Rachel