Here’s how underwater welding is becoming a more accessible trade for Arizonans

GOODYEAR — Students in the southwest Valley are learning how to weld major infrastructure — underwater!

A new partnership between Commercial Divers International (CDI) in Goodyear and The Refrigeration School (RSI) is making it easier for welding students to jump between technical skills on land and underwater.

Gus Velez, CDI chief administrative officer, said the welding industry is expanding and more workers needed. He explained this partnership could increase the number of certified workers.

“There is a natural partnership there. I mean, surface level welding … [is] essential for bridges and what have you,” he said. “But guess what? That bridge is built in water, so even as you’re putting it together, you got to inspect the bottom to make sure it can stand the test of time.”

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