Top 10 Metal Fabricator Certifications

Metal fabricators are highly sought after in the job market due to their specialized skillset. Having certifications can be a big advantage for metal fabricators as it demonstrates their skill level and qualifications in the industry. It also shows employers that they have taken the initiative to learn and develop specific skills, which can be beneficial when competing for a job. Certifications provide employers with an assurance that a metal fabricator is knowledgeable, skilled, and experienced in their field. In addition, certifications can open up more job opportunities and higher pay rates due to the increased knowledge and skill set that comes along with them.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for metal fabricators and explain how they can help advance a metal fabricator's career.

What are Metal Fabricator Certifications?

Metal fabricator certification is a credential that demonstrates a metal fabricator’s understanding of the industry and their proficiency in specific areas. It is designed to help employers ensure that their employees are knowledgeable, skilled, and competent in their job duties. The certification also serves as a benchmark for quality assurance and safety standards.

This certification can benefit employers by helping them find qualified workers who have an understanding of the industry’s best practices, safety protocols, and regulations. Employers can also use this certification as part of their hiring process to ensure they are selecting candidates with the appropriate skillset for the job. Additionally, certified metal fabricators may be eligible for higher wages than those without certification due to their specialized knowledge and experience.

Metal fabricator certification can also help individuals by providing them with a way to demonstrate their expertise and prove their skills to potential employers or clients. This credential can be used as proof of competency in certain areas, such as welding or machining, which may give them an advantage over other applicants when seeking employment or contracts. Furthermore, it may lead to increased job opportunities and greater career advancement opportunities in the field.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing a metal fabricator certification, make sure to research the specific requirements of the program you are interested in. Make sure you have the required education and/or experience, as well as any other qualifications that may be necessary to qualify for certification.

Related: What does a Metal Fabricator do?

Top 10 Metal Fabricator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Metal Fabricators today.

1. American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welder

The American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welder is a certification program that recognizes welders who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to safely and effectively perform welding processes. The AWS Certified Welder Program is designed to provide employers with assurance that certified welders have the necessary qualifications and experience to produce quality welds in accordance with AWS standards.

It typically takes about three months to complete the requirements for the AWS Certified Welder Program. This includes completing an approved welding training program, passing a written exam, and performing a practical test. Depending on the type of welding certification you are seeking, additional requirements may apply.

To become an AWS Certified Welder, you must first find an accredited training program or school that offers courses in welding technology or related topics. Once you have completed your training program, you will need to pass a written exam as well as a practical test. The written exam covers topics such as safety practices, metallurgy, welding theory and practice, inspection techniques, and more. The practical test requires welders to demonstrate their ability to perform various types of welding processes using specific materials and equipment.

The cost of becoming an AWS Certified Welder varies depending on the type of certification you are seeking and where you take your classes. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$3000 USD for tuition alone; however this does not include any additional fees associated with taking the exams or purchasing materials/equipment needed for the practical tests.

2. AWS Certified Fabricator

AWS Certified Fabricator is an AWS certification program for professionals who fabricate, assemble, and install AWS-certified products. It is designed to recognize those who have the skills and knowledge necessary to fabricate, assemble, and install AWS-certified products according to industry standards.

The certification process includes a written exam and a practical demonstration of fabrication skills. The written exam covers topics such as welding theory, metallurgy, blueprint reading, fabrication processes, safety practices, and quality control procedures. The practical demonstration involves fabricating a project from start to finish using the correct tools and techniques.

It typically takes several months to complete the certification process. Candidates must first pass the written exam before they can move on to the practical demonstration. Once both components are completed successfully, candidates will receive their AWS Certified Fabricator certificate.

The cost of the certification varies depending on where you take it; however, it generally ranges from $500-$1,000 USD.

3. National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Certified Metal Fabricator

The National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Certified Metal Fabricator is a credential that recognizes the skills and knowledge of metal fabricators. It is designed to provide employers with assurance that their employees have the necessary skills to work in the metal fabrication industry.

To become a NIMS Certified Metal Fabricator, an individual must pass a series of tests that assess their knowledge and ability to fabricate metal components. The tests cover topics such as welding, cutting, forming, machining, and finishing. Depending on the level of certification sought, additional tests may be required.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete all of the requirements for NIMS certification. This includes completing any required training courses, passing the written exams, and demonstrating proficiency in hands-on tasks.

To get started on the path to becoming a NIMS Certified Metal Fabricator, individuals should contact their local community college or technical school for information about available classes and testing centers. They should also review the NIMS website for more detailed information about certification requirements and fees.

The cost of becoming a NIMS Certified Metal Fabricator varies depending on the level of certification sought. Generally speaking, it can range from $200-$500 for basic certifications up to $1,000-$2,000 for advanced certifications.

4. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certified Welder

American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certified Welder is a certification that recognizes welders who have met the standards set by ASME. It is a voluntary certification process that ensures welders have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform welding operations safely and accurately.

To become an ASME Certified Welder, you must first complete an approved welding program at an accredited school or training facility. The program should include both classroom instruction and hands-on experience in welding techniques, safety procedures, and other related topics. Once you have completed the program, you will need to pass an exam administered by the American Welding Society (AWS). This exam covers topics such as welding theory, safety practices, and quality control measures.

Once you have passed the exam, you will be eligible to apply for the ASME Certified Welder credential. You will need to submit documentation of your educational background and work experience in order to be considered for certification. The application fee is typically around $200 USD, but this may vary depending on your location and other factors.

Once your application has been approved, you will receive your ASME Certified Welder card in the mail within a few weeks. This card serves as proof of your certification and must be renewed every three years in order to remain valid. To renew your certification, you must submit evidence of continuing education or professional development activities related to welding during that time period.

Overall, becoming an ASME Certified Welder can take several months from start to finish depending on how quickly you complete the required coursework and pass the AWS exam. However, it is worth noting that having this credential can open up many new career opportunities in welding-related fields due to its high level of recognition within industry circles.

5. American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) Certified Steel Erector

The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) Certified Steel Erector Program is a certification program that recognizes steel erectors who demonstrate knowledge and skill in the erection of structural steel. AISC Certified Steel Erectors are recognized by the industry as having the experience, skills and knowledge to safely and efficiently erect structural steel buildings.

To become an AISC Certified Steel Erector, applicants must meet certain qualifications, including:

• Having a minimum of two years of documented experience in the field of steel erection;
• Passing an exam administered by AISC;
• Completing a practical evaluation conducted at an approved testing facility;
• Successfully completing a background check; and
• Signing an agreement to abide by the AISC Code of Standard Practice for Steel Buildings and Bridges.

It typically takes around six months to complete all requirements for certification. The cost varies depending on the type of certification sought, but generally ranges from $1,000-$2,000.

6. International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART) Journeyman Welder Certification

The International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART) Journeyman Welder Certification is a program designed to recognize welders who demonstrate the highest level of skill in welding. The certification is valid for five years and requires passing an exam that tests the welder's knowledge and skills in all aspects of welding.

To become certified, welders must have at least four years of experience as a journeyman welder or equivalent experience in the trade. They must also complete a SMART-approved training course that covers safety, welding processes, materials, codes, and other related topics. After completing the training course, welders must pass a written exam and then take a practical test that evaluates their ability to perform welding tasks safely and accurately.

The cost of obtaining the SMART Journeyman Welder Certification varies depending on the specific requirements of each individual jurisdiction. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $200 to $2,000 to become certified. This includes fees for taking the required classes and exams as well as any additional costs associated with obtaining certification such as travel expenses or equipment rental fees.

Once certified, welders are eligible to work on jobs requiring SMART Journeyman Welder Certification in any jurisdiction where it is recognized. They are also eligible for higher pay rates than non-certified welders due to their increased level of expertise.

7. American Boiler Manufacturers Association (ABMA) Boilermaker Certification

The American Boiler Manufacturers Association (ABMA) Boilermaker Certification is a program that provides a standardized system of qualification for boilermakers. It is designed to ensure that boilermakers have the necessary skills, knowledge and experience to work safely and competently in the industry.

To become certified, applicants must complete an approved apprenticeship program or demonstrate equivalent experience and training. The apprenticeship program typically takes three to four years to complete, depending on the state and local requirements. Once completed, applicants must pass an ABMA-approved written exam as well as a practical exam demonstrating their ability to perform specific tasks related to the trade.

Applicants must also submit proof of current employment in the boilermaking field and provide documentation of any additional training they may have received. The cost of certification varies by state but generally ranges from $50-$150 for the written exam and $100-$200 for the practical exam.

8. National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Structural Steel Fabricator Certification

The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Structural Steel Fabricator Certification is a nationally recognized program that provides a credential to individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to perform structural steel fabrication. This certification is designed to ensure that fabricators are able to safely and accurately fabricate structural steel components in accordance with industry standards.

To become certified, individuals must complete an NCCER-accredited training program, which typically takes two years or more to complete. During this time, individuals will learn about various aspects of structural steel fabrication, including welding techniques, blueprint reading, material handling and safety protocols. Upon successful completion of the training program, candidates must pass an NCCER-administered assessment in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the NCCER Structural Steel Fabricator Certification varies depending on the training provider and the length of the program. Generally speaking, most programs range from $2,000-$4,000 for tuition and fees. In addition to tuition costs, there may also be additional costs associated with materials used during the training as well as any required assessments or exams needed for certification.

9. International Brotherhood of Boilermakers (IBB) Boilermaker Certification

The International Brotherhood of Boilermakers (IBB) Boilermaker Certification is a program designed to certify boilermakers who demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to safely construct, maintain, and repair boilers. The IBB Boilermaker Certification Program is administered by the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors (NBBI).

To get certified, applicants must complete an approved apprenticeship program or have at least five years of experience in the industry. Applicants must also pass a written examination that covers topics such as safety, welding, math, and blueprint reading. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their certification card from NBBI.

The cost for the IBB Boilermaker Certification Program varies depending on the type of certification sought. The cost for an initial certification is $350 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees. Renewal costs are $100 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees.

The process of getting certified typically takes 3-6 months to complete. This includes completing an approved apprenticeship program or having at least five years of experience in the industry as well as passing the written exam.

10. American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Structural Steel Fabrication Certification

The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Structural Steel Fabrication Certification is a program that certifies structural steel fabricators as having the skills and knowledge to produce quality, safe, and reliable products. The certification requires fabricators to demonstrate their proficiency in welding, cutting, forming, and other fabrication processes.

To get the ASTM Structural Steel Fabrication Certification, fabricators must first complete an application process. This includes submitting documentation of their experience in structural steel fabrication and passing a written exam. Once approved, the fabricator must then pass a practical exam which tests their ability to safely and accurately perform the required fabrication processes.

The entire process typically takes around three months from start to finish. The cost of the certification varies depending on the type of certification being sought; however, it generally ranges from $500-$1,000 USD.

Do You Really Need a Metal Fabricator Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their career goals. For someone who is looking to pursue a career in metal fabrication, having a certificate may be beneficial as it will demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in the field. It could also give them an edge over other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions.

For those who are already working in metal fabrication but do not have a certificate, getting one can help them refine their skills and become more knowledgeable about the industry. This could lead to better job opportunities and higher wages. It could also give them the ability to work on larger projects or gain access to more advanced equipment and materials.

For those who are just starting out in metal fabrication, having a certificate might not be necessary if they are only interested in learning the basics of the trade. However, if they plan on pursuing a more specialized role such as welding or machining, then having a certificate might be beneficial as it will show potential employers that they have taken steps to learn more about the craft.

Overall, whether you need a metal fabricator certificate depends on your current skill level and career goals. If you are planning on taking your career further into this field, then getting certified may be worth considering. However, if you are just starting out or only want to learn some basic skills, it may not be necessary.

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FAQs About Metal Fabricator Certifications

1. What type of certification is required to be a metal fabricator?

Answer: The specific requirements for metal fabricator certifications vary by state and employer, but generally, most employers require at least a high school diploma or GED. Other certifications, such as welding or machining, may also be required depending on the job.

2. How long does it take to become certified as a metal fabricator?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified as a metal fabricator will depend on the type of certification you are seeking and your level of experience in the field. Generally speaking, most certifications can be completed within one to two years.

3. What are the benefits of becoming a certified metal fabricator?

Answer: Becoming a certified metal fabricator can open up many career opportunities that were not previously available due to lack of credentials. Certification also allows workers to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field, which can lead to higher pay and better job prospects.

4. Is there an exam I need to take in order to become certified?

Answer: Yes, most certifications require applicants to pass an exam prior to being awarded their certification. Additionally, some certifying bodies may require applicants to complete additional training requirements before taking the exam.

5. Are there any online courses available for those interested in becoming a certified metal fabricator?

Answer: Yes, there are many online courses available for those interested in becoming a certified metal fabricator. These courses cover topics such as welding techniques, metallurgy principles, cutting and forming processes, and more.