Am I underqualified?

[Dogbreath23]

Hello gang. Im a new member to this site and have been reading alot of the posts with interest. I have a question for the profesionals,which is this. I have recently taken a year to do a city and guilds course in Blacksmithing Welding and Steel Fabrication at Hereford college of technology. The qualification I have gained is a C and G level 2 performing engineering operations and 2 BS4872 welder certs for MIG and MMA. Im 37 years old and took this course to get a trade (not much money in farm labouring!) I have approached several firms recently and it seems like most of the fellas my age are all time served. Am I at a disadvantage? Am I underqualified? Ive seen a part time level three course advertised close to home at nightschool (TIG/pipe welding) Would that improve my chances? I know its a very competitive industry and I dont want to end up as a trolly wally for Kwiksave! Cheers.DB23

 

[cookie munsta]

Its better late than never, may be get a start with a fabrication buisiness and work your way up, Drawing interpretation is pretty important, and being able to mark off

 

[chunkolini]

Dogbreath23
It could also be experience as well as quals' see if you can get hold of some fab work, but where? I will PM you a suggestion, but it is in this neck of the woods.

Chunko'.

 

[Drains]

To be honest DB, your qualifications would get you a start as a second-year apprentice, if you were 18.
However, don't let that put you off! But don't expect to get a job as a tradesman, cos you're not. DO however show lots of enthusiasm, and a desire to learn more (like other courses, as you suggest). And keep hassling people till they take you on, even as a labourer, if it's in the right place and will give you a chance to show your skills.
All the best
Si

 

[Dogbreath23]

Thanks for the advice.To be honest Im feeling pretty confidant that I could get in somewhere, Its like like you say its a question of being enthusiastic.**** it, theres always apple pickin' to fall back on!