Metal Works
Welding Apprentice in the USA
"I love working with my hands," Michael Dyer explained. "I love after a good day's work I can
look up and say I just did that and it's going to last a long time." Dyer is a 3rd year welding
apprentice employed through the United Association of Journeyman Apprentices of the Plumbing and
Pipefitting industry (UA).
Welders work with a wide variety of metals like steel, aluminum, brass, and stainless steel.
To become a welder, Dyer is leveraging his dexterity, attention to detail, and the technical
knowledge of the materials he works with.
At first Dyer was surprised at how much math is associated with learning the trade. "I am in
school two nights a week at the local union, where I learn math theory and the specifics of the
welding trade," he said in an interview with Helmets to Hardhats. But while the training is
challenging, Dyer is convinced it is also top notch, especially in terms of hands-on attention.
"The apprentice works with the actual journeyman on a day to day basis," he noted.
Right now, his big project is a casino in Pennsylvania. "It's a great big building with
restaurants and bars and all kinds of stuff," he said. The project is very involved, and Dyer is
working the pipes that run from the main water main to faucets, sinks, and toilets.
Dyer credits his military career, the work of the Helmets to Hardhats program, and the
resourcefulness of the UA in finding him the training he needs to be successful in his new career.
"The Helmets to Hardhats program gave me a crack at it," he said. "It only took a week."
Additionally he touted the help of the UA union: "Anne [union representative that helped him
gain his placement] is an angel, and the members of the local union are great people."
During his military stint Dyer was a utilities man with the Navy Corps of Engineers. He
served 4 years, including two years with a Navy SEAL team. "I proudly served my country," he
explained.
When Dyer decided to transition out of the military, he found a career as a welding
technician to be an easy and logical fit. "I was a plumber and did heating and air conditioning in
the military and was able to transfer those skills to the real world" he said.
He's currently working at Local Union No. 524 in Scranton, Pennsylvania. "In this community
they really welcome people coming from the military with open arms, really thanking you for
serving," he said.
Dyer explained that best thing about his new job is the career progression once he completes
the program. "Once I get done with my apprenticeship ," he said, "I have to pass the STAR test, and
after I pass I have a traveling membership with any UA local union that will ensure I get the
prevailing wage."
Dyer's advice for others thinking about making the move to his new trade? "They better be
willing to work," he said. "I don't stand around at all."
To explore whether a job as a welding technician might be right for you visit the Helmets to
Hardhats website, helmetstohardhats.org, where you can find information about the UA and other
Building and Construction Trades.
