Future Welders: Inspiring the Next Generation of Welding Talent

When you think of welding, what comes to mind? Sparks flying, maybe? Big machinery, heavy gloves, masks with darkened lenses? That’s part of it, sure, but it’s also about precision, creativity, and building the future, literally. From bridges and ships to renewable energy and even art, welding is at the heart of so much that keeps the world moving.

Right now, a large part of the welding workforce is approaching retirement. In fact, by 2027, it’s estimated that nearly half of welders could leave the trade. That’s around 35,000 skilled professionals stepping away in just a few years. At the same time, fewer young people are coming through: apprenticeship starts are down a huge 45% since 2015. That’s a big skills gap to fill, and if we don’t act, the industry will feel the strain.

That’s why we’ve launched Future Welders.

At Rapid Welding, we’re passionate about the people who make welding what it is. The skills, the stories, the opportunities, we want to keep that alive for the next generation. Future Welders is our way of helping young people discover how exciting (and rewarding) a career in welding can be.

So, what does this look like in practice?

Our first step is teaming up with our college partners to support their upcoming open days and bring the welding experience to life. Together with our virtual reality training partner, we’ll give prospective students an immersive taste of welding.

By supporting colleges with their recruitment efforts, we’re helping them attract the next wave of students into welding courses – so young people can see welding as an exciting career. In contrast, colleges can make the experience engaging and hands-on.

Looking ahead, we’ll also be working with schools to give pupils a fun, hands-on introduction to welding as a potential career.

Imagine being able to try welding in VR, the skills, the movements, the experience – but in a safe, hands-on way. Students will be able to see the skills they could learn, the career paths available both here in the UK and worldwide, and the impact they could have on industries that really matter.

Why it matters

Welding is a career that opens doors. Whether it’s helping to build vital infrastructure, pushing forward new technologies, or travelling the world with in-demand skills, welding offers so much more than people often realise.

But unless we shine a light on it, too many young people simply won’t see welding as an option. And that’s where Future Welders comes in: by working directly with colleges, supporting schools, and offering fun, engaging, and hands-on experiences, we can help bring new energy and talent into the trade.

A 2021 survey of UK metalworkers found that Scotland’s welding industry was reported to be struggling to fill nearly 40% of its vacancies, among other regions facing similar challenges. While more up-to-date figures are scarce, this gives a snapshot of the issue.

Building the industry’s future

Future Welders is our commitment to supporting the industry and the next generation of welders. A commitment to giving students the tools and confidence to try welding for themselves. And a commitment to supporting a trade that’s been building the world for generations.

So, if you’re a college, a school, or simply someone who wants to learn more about what we’re doing, keep an eye on this space – or get in touch with us about how we can support you. We can’t wait to share the journey with you.

The future of welding is in safe hands, and we’re here to make sure of it.