Welding
Harness the power of your torch to create impenetrable vessels and help forge a new era of U.S. Navy submarines.
What is welding?
Welding is a process that unites multiple pieces of metal or thermoplastic materials by skillfully melting and fusing them together using energy sources ranging from gas flames and electric arcs to precise lasers and powerful electron beams.
This process plays an integral role in submarine manufacturing and offers numerous benefits:
It allows for the creation of strong and durable joints between metal components that can withstand challenging conditions, including high water pressure and dynamic forces.
It eliminates the need for mechanical fasteners such as bolts and rivets by creating seamless connections that distribute loads more efficiently, which is critical for submarines to achieve desired buoyancy and maneuverability.
It plays a crucial role in ensuring that the submarine's hull and compartments remain impervious to water ingress. It requires working with both thick and thin materials, careful technique, alignment, and a delicate touch.
It allows for the creation of complex shapes and structures and enables the creation of customized and precisely fitting components.
It can be closely monitored and controlled to ensure high-quality welds using non-destructive testing methods, such as ultrasonic testing and X-ray inspection, to detect defects ensuring that they meet the stringent quality standards required for submarine construction.
It is a cost-effective building method that eliminates the need for additional fasteners, simplifies the assembly process, requires minimal maintenance over the life of the submarine, and reduces labor and material costs.
Build unbreakable bonds
Your work as a welder helps make submarining possible. The dependable structures you create help ensure the safety and integrity of our Naval submarine fleet.
Imagine this scenario: A critical pressure test is being conducted on a newly designed submarine. As the submarine ventures down 3,000 feet below the surface, it faces intense pressure that could easily threaten the integrity of the vessel should water find its way in. Thanks to your solidly welded watertight hull, the submarine remains secure, passes the test, and is ready to take on real-life missions.
The components you create in your career will make safe and effective submarining possible and will help propel the future of U.S. Navy submarines.
The welders are who put it together. We make sure that that submarine is watertight so that when our people go out there our welds are going to keep them safe.”
Is welding right for you?
Do you enjoy seeing things come together from pieces to parts? Want to join the legacy of one of the longest-standing careers in history where you can use your hands and your out-of-the-box thinking to build the next generation of U.S. Navy submarines?
Welding may be the perfect opportunity for you.
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Spark innovation
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Wield the power of your torch
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Forge the future of submarine manufacturing
Want to start a career in welding but not sure where to begin?
Learn how to weld like a pro with a range of training programs designed to equip you with the skills you need for success. Choose from a variety of training opportunities, including the Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) program, which can help you earn industry-recognized certifications in just four months.
Forge a new career
You are a master of metal who thrives under heat. Your welding hood is an extension of you and you’re known for having the smoothest joints around.
Whether you spend your days fusing together metal for railways or welding BBQ pits and wine racks as a weekend hobby, you have the skills and grit to build the monster of all machines — a next-generation military submarine.
Explore how you can leverage your skills into a career in the Submarine Industrial Base.
Ready to take the plunge?
Join our talent pool to connect with employers and access exciting job and training opportunities.