Sheet metal is used as a building material in many military construction projects. Ships, tanks, and aircraft are made of heavy metal armor. Welders and metal workers make and install sheet metal products, such as roofs, air ducts, gutters, and vents. They also make custom parts to repair the structural parts of ships, submarines, landing craft, buildings, and equipment.
What They Do
Welders and metal workers in the military perform some or all of the following duties:
- Weld, braze, or solder metal parts together
- Repair automotive and ship parts using welding equipment
- Measure work with calipers, micrometers, and rulers
Helpful Attributes
Helpful school subjects include auto mechanics and industrial arts. Helpful attributes include:
- Interest in working with repair tools
- Preference for physical work
Training Provided
Job training consists of classroom instruction. Training length varies depending on specialty. Further training occurs on the job and through advanced courses. Course content typically includes:
- Sheet metal layout and duct work
- Procedures for cutting, brazing, and heat treating
- Operation and care of welding, soldering, and brazing equipment
Work Environment
Welders and metal workers work indoors in metalworking shops and aircraft hangars. They also work outdoors at construction sites, on ships, and in the field.
Civilian Counterparts
Civilian welders and metal workers may work for metal repair shops, auto repair shops, construction companies, pipeline companies, aircraft manufacturing plants, shipyards, and marine servicing companies. They perform duties similar to military welders and metal workers.
