From Silicon to Sparks: A Software Engineer's Turn to Welding

When Tabby Toney was laid off from her software engineering position last May, it wasn't just a job loss, it was a wake-up call. Like many in tech, she found herself caught in the turbulence of an industry rapidly transformed by AI. So, she made a bold move: swapping keyboards for welding torches in Oklahoma.

A Swift Transition

Toney didn't languish in unemployment for long. After her layoff, she took a month to reflect before diving into welding, a craft she admired since childhood. By August, she'd secured a spot in a fast-track welding program, pushing through an intensive 40-hour-a-week schedule over five months. In a matter of weeks post-graduation, she landed a job, sidestepping the arduous job hunt.

Here's how the numbers stack up: the program cost was initially $3,000, but scholarships and company donations reduced her out-of-pocket expenses. It's a stark contrast to the often exorbitant costs of traditional higher education pathways.

Embracing a New Routine

Now, as a welder, Toney spends her days attaching ladder clips to utility poles under the Oklahoma sun. The shift to a physically demanding job in a non-climate-controlled environment was challenging, yet invigorating. Despite the learning curve, Toney appreciates the camaraderie and support from seasoned welders. She works 12-hour days, three days a week, which leaves ample time for leisure and family.

So, what's the trade-off? The salary. From a $130,000-a-year tech salary to an estimated $52,000 in welding, the financial dip is significant. Yet, Toney had the foresight to pay off debts while still in tech, cushioning the blow of her new hourly wage.

The Real Value: Stability

For Toney, the shift was about more than just a career change. It was about escaping the relentless anxiety of tech layoffs. In an industry where job security often feels like a mirage, welding offered her a tangible sense of stability. She no longer checks the news in dread of industry cuts. Instead, she sees firsthand the work that ensures her paycheck.

As tech continues its volatile dance with AI, could more professionals follow Toney's path? Is the allure of a steady paycheck and job security enough to draw others out of tech's uncertain grasp? For Toney, the answer is clear. And the market map tells the story: stability sometimes outweighs salary.