THE AMERICAN WELDER ence more of the greater metalworking industry has been invaluable. Post Service Life Whether a person enlists for four years and leaves the service, or chooses to make it a career, there are many employment avenues available for separating service members. Many businesses have veteranpreferred hiring procedures, unions offer a variety of training and job placement services, and the Army mandates that all service members who are separating complete the Soldier for Life transition program, which helps teach skills such as interviewing and résumé writing. In addition, the Department of Defense Skillbridge program connects separating service members with employers and training opportunities. Conclusion Whatever the reasons for joining the Army, ultimately the experience is irreplaceable. The variety of fabrications, repairs, materials, and experiences in different locations are almost countless and ultimately invaluable — Figs. 5, 6. I highly encourage educators with students who seem like a good fit for the Army to encourage them to consider the military as a career option. We are in a time of reduction of forces, but there are always people leaving the service who need to be replaced. Students who have at least some education in the trades and who are motivated, self-starters are ideal candidates to become an Allied Trades Specialist. 78 WELDING JOURNAL / AUGUST 2016 WJ CHARLES C. WHEELER (charles.c.wheeler.mil@mail.mil) is an Active Duty Army 914A, Allied Trades Warrant Officer. This article is based on the “Welding in the Military” presentation given at FABTECH 2015 in Chicago, Ill. All information contained herein regarding educational programs, credentialing/ certification, and other information is current as of this writing; however, these programs are continually under review and subject to change. For info, go to aws.org/adindex For info, go to aws.org/adindex
Welding Journal | August 2016
To see the actual publication please follow the link above