Cael Dixon – Level 1 Welding

Name: Cael Dixon

Course Name: Level 1 Welding Skill

Course Type: Part-Time

Image caption: NWSLC level 1 welding student, Cael Dixon
Cael was helping with his family’s boat-building business at Ratcliffe on Soar near Kegworth when he first learned his welding technique by practising on narrowboats. Cael, from Burbage, now works as a team leader for Cummins UK and although he isn’t a welder at work, wanted to gain a qualification to validate the skills he has learned and try a new type of welding.

Cael said, “I learned a lot from my previous roles including at Triumph Motorcycles where I also helped out with some welding tasks. I have worked for Cummins for over ten years now and have recently been promoted to team leader. I work on the trim line, checking and testing engines and their finishing after they have been built. Cummins produces diesel engines for use in marine, construction and power generation settings and I handle engines for ships that are up to 80 litres in size.

“My employer encourages continuous professional development and I have wanted to return to college for a long time, so I was pleased to get the chance to follow this course while continuing to work. In fact, the welding course at NWSLC was very convenient, taking place on a weekday evening so I was able to fit it in around my shifts.

“I wasn’t sure which level I should start at because I already had experience but to achieve the qualifications, everyone has to demonstrate their competence in the core skills of welding. As well as achieving a Level 1 MIG welding qualification, I also got the chance to try TIG welding which was a different experience.

“Despite being slightly wary of returning to the classroom, I didn’t feel like a new boy at school because everyone was there to learn whether they were learning to weld for the first time or had signed up to get qualified. There was a strong camaraderie in the group, and we all helped each other with the support of our tutor. I really enjoyed the course and would like to progress on to the Level 2 course when I can work this around my schedule.

“Anybody can say that they are a welder but without the qualifications to prove it, there is no guarantee that employers will recognise your skills. The kit and equipment at the college is great and I would certainly recommend it to others in the industry who are thinking about making their skills official.”