Having worked in an industrial setting for many years, I feel qualified to share with you the joys of welding in this kind of environment.
Sure the work is hot, dirty, grueling at times, and down right degrading, but the pay can be outstanding and the friendships made can be lifelong.
My favorite part about working in an industrial environment is the camaraderie that is built through years of working with the same people.
Learning to have trust in this line of work can pose as a huge challenge, but go through a rough job with one of your welding buddies and you will have a bond for life.
My attitude as a welder changed dramatically over the years.
At first, I was interested in nothing but getting through the day without getting hurt, but as time grew I learned to love my work.
I don't know if the feeling of pride is often acquired at the beginning of a job, or learned from years of experience in the field, but I was one of the latter.
I found the work to be almost degrading at first, due to the heat and dirty environment, but over the years my comrades helped put a smile on my face daily.
It is important to have someone watching your back in an industrial setting, so the next time your sweating next to someone who trusts you, think about what an old tack welder once told you.
Friends are important as a welder and they will make you or break you.
Choose your friends like you would buy a used car.
Don't go for the broken car that you cannot trust, go for the car that will get you where you need to go with a smile on your face.