A very good article on the need for hands on welding skills for today’s youth from Jerry Jasinowsky.
https://us3.campaign-archive.com/?u=51d0796fff96fbf0bb37c10b2&id=6f83458c6a&e=a1abdd735a
While high school shop is a quickly fading enterprise, learning welding skills & getting certifications early can give you an alternate to the traditional 4 year degree and the corporate world. Pay can often equal or exceed peers going the 9-5 route with the location freedom they can only dream of.
Here are some Trade School Options:
https://www.trade-schools.net/trades/welding.asp
https://info.lincolntech-usa.com/programs/skilled-trades/welding-technology/
https://www.weldingschool.com/programs/
JSP ARC