Hi all,
This is only my second post, and if you've read my first post you'll know that I'm just getting in to welding. I'm a former sniper and overseas contractor from 2001 thru 2014, I work right now doing epoxy coatings and epoxy grouting and carpentry. I am almost 33. So I don't have translatable skills from my trigger pulling days, and I'm new to welding. I've only welded a small amount with my uncle; a retired welder. I am very serious about becoming a professional, and skilled, welder. Due to having a wife and daughter, and being over 30, I don't have time to pussyfoot around. I'm looking for a welding school that's flexible and above all, competent. I'm in South Jersey and have come across Elite welder training and testing. Can anyone tell me if this school is worth my time and effort. I've been through enough tactical schools and courses to know that not all training is created equal. I would like to know if this school can prepare me for a career to the point where potential employers will take me seriously. If I didn't have to support a family, I would look into Hobart Institute or one of the other long, in-depth programs. I work for my father's company, so I have an advantageous amount of work schedule flexibility, but I still need to put food on the table and pay the bills.
Shortened version: I'm new to welding, 33 yrs old, have a family that I need to support. I have no time to waste. Is the school Elite welder training and testing in South Jersey a good place to get solid training for a career in welding?
Thanks to anyone who knows about this school.
Regards,
Dan
- Otto Nobedder
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Weldmonger
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Hey, Dan,
For "translatable skills", you could consider MIG... There's a trigger, and your motto could be, "One shot, one fill."
Seriously, though, I know what you mean about "not created equal". This is quite true in welding programs, as I've read some real horror stories.
There are a couple of instructors on here who may be familiar with Elite. I don't recall it being mentioned (but my mind is an annoyingly cluttered place), so I don't know if we have any previous students here. I'll follow this post, and if no one can help, I'll check with some other sources and see if I can find a reliable review or two.
I'll also copy the topic to "shop talk", as not everyone scrolls down this far.
Steve S
For "translatable skills", you could consider MIG... There's a trigger, and your motto could be, "One shot, one fill."
Seriously, though, I know what you mean about "not created equal". This is quite true in welding programs, as I've read some real horror stories.
There are a couple of instructors on here who may be familiar with Elite. I don't recall it being mentioned (but my mind is an annoyingly cluttered place), so I don't know if we have any previous students here. I'll follow this post, and if no one can help, I'll check with some other sources and see if I can find a reliable review or two.
I'll also copy the topic to "shop talk", as not everyone scrolls down this far.
Steve S
Thanks for topic bump to the shop talk section Otto.
Never thought about it that way. I've got over a decade of experience! (just don't test me!)
I'm going to try and see if I can go visit the school sometime next week. I'd really like to get some info from an unbiased source though. If I don't get any responses from someone whose either gone to the school or can vouch for a guy/gal who went and was successful, I'll post my findings. Again, any info on this school is very much appreciated. I don't doubt the instructor(s) know how to weld their asses off, but can they teach me to do the same?
Never thought about it that way. I've got over a decade of experience! (just don't test me!)
I'm going to try and see if I can go visit the school sometime next week. I'd really like to get some info from an unbiased source though. If I don't get any responses from someone whose either gone to the school or can vouch for a guy/gal who went and was successful, I'll post my findings. Again, any info on this school is very much appreciated. I don't doubt the instructor(s) know how to weld their asses off, but can they teach me to do the same?
- Otto Nobedder
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Please don't assume the instructors are knowledgeable.
The gap is that wide between quality schools and "not".
Steve S
The gap is that wide between quality schools and "not".
Steve S
This showed up on this forum.
http://forum.weldingtipsandtricks.com/v ... f=5&t=6315
http://forum.weldingtipsandtricks.com/v ... f=5&t=6315
Thanks Werkspace,
I read Drummer's posts and saw the pictures and I PM'd him to see what he thought of the school and if it made him more employable. Also in what regard employers hold that particular school. When he went through the school he was in the same boat I am, and just starting out. So I want to see if it was worth it and if the training actually prepared him to work as a professional welder upon completion of the course.
I read Drummer's posts and saw the pictures and I PM'd him to see what he thought of the school and if it made him more employable. Also in what regard employers hold that particular school. When he went through the school he was in the same boat I am, and just starting out. So I want to see if it was worth it and if the training actually prepared him to work as a professional welder upon completion of the course.
Boomer63
- Boomer63
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Location:Indiana near Chicago
Welcome Danfinn! Have you considered any trade unions in your area? I know that pipefitters, boiler makers, millwrights and ironworkers are preferring veterans over other candidates for their apprenticeships. I had one student of mine, an Army vet from Afghanistan, who applied for Pipefitters 597 over in Chicago, and got hired on last year. He is now a second year apprentice. He is getting paid to learn, and is getting a world class education. Your vet status will help you get into any trade union. Typically, they would like to see that your MOS is something like engineering, but any veteran status is OK.
Please, please email me if you have any questions. If you are willing to relocate to northwest Indiana, you have a great shot at 597.
Gary
Please, please email me if you have any questions. If you are willing to relocate to northwest Indiana, you have a great shot at 597.
Gary
Thanks for the info Boomer.
I was looking at pipe fitters union in my area UA local 322. If I do go that route, I would like to go to them with something to offer other than my military service record. They also are not taking any applications this year. My MOS was 11B- Infantry. I was a paratrooper, sniper, recon RTO. That's the problem right now for most front line guys. We come back after fighting with no direct skills to offer other than attributes like leadership skills and so on. Unemployment is highest among those who fight in direct combat. Can't bitch about it though, just have to look for good training. That's why I'm looking at these schools, and in particular Elite welder training and testing. It's close to me and looks like it's a program geared towards gaining a foothold in a welding career. I just need to verify that it's a solid school. I got in contact with Drummer, who went there, and I'm going to give him a call later today to find out about his experiences during and after the school.
I was looking at pipe fitters union in my area UA local 322. If I do go that route, I would like to go to them with something to offer other than my military service record. They also are not taking any applications this year. My MOS was 11B- Infantry. I was a paratrooper, sniper, recon RTO. That's the problem right now for most front line guys. We come back after fighting with no direct skills to offer other than attributes like leadership skills and so on. Unemployment is highest among those who fight in direct combat. Can't bitch about it though, just have to look for good training. That's why I'm looking at these schools, and in particular Elite welder training and testing. It's close to me and looks like it's a program geared towards gaining a foothold in a welding career. I just need to verify that it's a solid school. I got in contact with Drummer, who went there, and I'm going to give him a call later today to find out about his experiences during and after the school.
Boomer63
- Boomer63
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Heavy Hitter
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danfinn - The trades DON'T CARE about your skills! They would rather have a 'blank slate' than someone who they would (basically) 'untrain' and re-train the right way.
What you have to offer the trades is YOU! They need highly motivated, smart self-starters who are willing to learn and grow. I figured your MOS was something like you described. I have another student with a very similar MOS who is going to look at fitters 597 as soon as he finishes off the program here at this school (he can't go now, without finishing the program, because then he would have to pay the $$ back to the VA, or whatever group is funding him).
Look ... I get students in here who have some previous experience. I don't really like it. Usually, not always, but usually, someone taught them and taught them wrong. So, now I have to get them to unlearn the bad habit (and some of them are really, really bad), and get them on the right track. So, you might ask, how do I know I am right and some of the other guys are wrong? Good question! Thirty five plus years of experience, teaching welding in an apprenticeship program, checking in with many, many other welders, unions and companies to make sure my graduates meet or exceed their standards, etc. I don't think I am a welding god and I make mistakes. But I teach my guys to be flexible and adaptable; just like I know they taught you in the military.
If you do find a school, find someone that will teach you what you will need in the trades. Oxy/fuel cutting, SMAW open root, V-Groove skills, vertical up structural welding, blue print and symbols. Learn multi processes. Ask at the union you are applying for if they have any suggestions. Talk to the apprentice coordinator.
If they ask you why you want to join the union, an answer like "for the money" is a fail. Answers like; I want to be a part of a union, the brotherhood, comprehensive training, blah, blah, blah, are great.
Go today! Keep us posted!
Gary
What you have to offer the trades is YOU! They need highly motivated, smart self-starters who are willing to learn and grow. I figured your MOS was something like you described. I have another student with a very similar MOS who is going to look at fitters 597 as soon as he finishes off the program here at this school (he can't go now, without finishing the program, because then he would have to pay the $$ back to the VA, or whatever group is funding him).
Look ... I get students in here who have some previous experience. I don't really like it. Usually, not always, but usually, someone taught them and taught them wrong. So, now I have to get them to unlearn the bad habit (and some of them are really, really bad), and get them on the right track. So, you might ask, how do I know I am right and some of the other guys are wrong? Good question! Thirty five plus years of experience, teaching welding in an apprenticeship program, checking in with many, many other welders, unions and companies to make sure my graduates meet or exceed their standards, etc. I don't think I am a welding god and I make mistakes. But I teach my guys to be flexible and adaptable; just like I know they taught you in the military.
If you do find a school, find someone that will teach you what you will need in the trades. Oxy/fuel cutting, SMAW open root, V-Groove skills, vertical up structural welding, blue print and symbols. Learn multi processes. Ask at the union you are applying for if they have any suggestions. Talk to the apprentice coordinator.
If they ask you why you want to join the union, an answer like "for the money" is a fail. Answers like; I want to be a part of a union, the brotherhood, comprehensive training, blah, blah, blah, are great.
Go today! Keep us posted!
Gary
- Otto Nobedder
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Weldmonger
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Were I writing the application, I'd say, "The military taught me the value of being part of a brotherhood, and to appreciate world-class training. I'd like to continue that in my civilian life."Boomer63 wrote:...
If they ask you why you want to join the union, an answer like "for the money" is a fail. Answers like; I want to be a part of a union, the brotherhood, comprehensive training, blah, blah, blah, are great.
Go today! Keep us posted!
Gary
Yes, it says the same thing, but words have power to influence people.
Let us know what you learn from Drummer. You won't be the last person to ask about that school.
Steve S
Talked to Drummer today.
He said he started at zero and after finishing the school he has confidence and ability to pass X-ray. He let me know that it was the best money he's ever spent and that the education and training was well worth it. He gave me the impression that you come out of there ready to work. Obviously, like any school you get what you put in. But if you are willing to get on it and learn and not bullshit around, this seems to be a school you can come out of with ability and confidence. Seems to be that after this school, if someone asks "are you a welder?" you can say "yes" without feeling like you're bullshitting. Obviously, you won't have the experience that comes with time under your belt, but then again, I've seen career infantryman who couldn't landnav their way out of a wet paper nut sack. sometimes it counts for something and sometimes it don't.(you get the point). I have enough of a warm fuzzy about the school that I'm going to take a trip up there hopefully this week. I'll post again with a little more info after that. I don't know if anyone is still even following this, but if someone searches this school in the future, hopefully it will be a decent enough and unbiased look at the school to help them.
He said he started at zero and after finishing the school he has confidence and ability to pass X-ray. He let me know that it was the best money he's ever spent and that the education and training was well worth it. He gave me the impression that you come out of there ready to work. Obviously, like any school you get what you put in. But if you are willing to get on it and learn and not bullshit around, this seems to be a school you can come out of with ability and confidence. Seems to be that after this school, if someone asks "are you a welder?" you can say "yes" without feeling like you're bullshitting. Obviously, you won't have the experience that comes with time under your belt, but then again, I've seen career infantryman who couldn't landnav their way out of a wet paper nut sack. sometimes it counts for something and sometimes it don't.(you get the point). I have enough of a warm fuzzy about the school that I'm going to take a trip up there hopefully this week. I'll post again with a little more info after that. I don't know if anyone is still even following this, but if someone searches this school in the future, hopefully it will be a decent enough and unbiased look at the school to help them.
- Otto Nobedder
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I know I'll be interested to hear your impressions from your visit.
Thanks again to WerkSpace for digging up Drummer's review!
Steve S
Thanks again to WerkSpace for digging up Drummer's review!
Steve S
Jgallagher21
- Jgallagher21
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Just wanted to add to the post, as I am the owners son. I can tell you first hand, my old man is one of a kind. He is straight up honest about every step he takes in the school. He's not in it for the money, he's doing it because he wants to make a legacy and spread his knowledge about welding. He's has over 50 years under the hood. He's taught my brother and me how to weld and we're both top in our trade. I'm a union Steamfitter, my brother is a union boilermaker. You cannot go wrong learning the trade at Elite. If you guys ever have any questions, feel free to shoot me an email (jgallagher21@gmail.com) and I'll get you in touch with him. Thanks guys. By the way the website is www.weldertrainingsouthjersey.com. Trust me, it's one of a kind. You will become a combo pipe welder in 12 weeks, no other school in the country can do this
Jgallagher21
- Jgallagher21
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danfinn wrote:Hi all,
This is only my second post, and if you've read my first post you'll know that I'm just getting in to welding. I'm a former sniper and overseas contractor from 2001 thru 2014, I work right now doing epoxy coatings and epoxy grouting and carpentry. I am almost 33. So I don't have translatable skills from my trigger pulling days, and I'm new to welding. I've only welded a small amount with my uncle; a retired welder. I am very serious about becoming a professional, and skilled, welder. Due to having a wife and daughter, and being over 30, I don't have time to pussyfoot around. I'm looking for a welding school that's flexible and above all, competent. I'm in South Jersey and have come across Elite welder training and testing. Can anyone tell me if this school is worth my time and effort. I've been through enough tactical schools and courses to know that not all training is created equal. I would like to know if this school can prepare me for a career to the point where potential employers will take me seriously. If I didn't have to support a family, I would look into Hobart Institute or one of the other long, in-depth programs. I work for my father's company, so I have an advantageous amount of work schedule flexibility, but I still need to put food on the table and pay the bills.
Shortened version: I'm new to welding, 33 yrs old, have a family that I need to support. I have no time to waste. Is the school Elite welder training and testing in South Jersey a good place to get solid training for a career in welding?
Thanks to anyone who knows about this school.
Regards,
Dan
Dan,
My name is Jim Gallagher, and I'm the owner's son. Elite welder testing and training will be the opposite of a waste of your time and money. I can 100% assure you of that. My dad has over 50 years in the trade and knows everything there is to know about training the future generation of welders. You wouldn't believe the success ratio the school has. He takes guys from mowing grass to becoming combo pipe welders in 12 weeks. No other school in the country can do this. He cuts out all the "bullshit" and legit gives you a welding boot camp. What you put in, you will get back. Show him you want it, he'll bend over backwards to make you successful. He has a lot of companies calling him, begging him for quality welders. So job placement is another great benefit. You should stop by an check it out. Bring boots and wear jeans, he'll let you weld right then and there. If you have any questions just call him, the number is on the website. www.weldertrainingsouthjersey.com