Mastering the causes and effects of welding defects can advance your career in quality control and assurance, leading to roles like Welding Inspector, Quality Engineer, or Manufacturing Manager, with median salaries ranging from $60,000 to over $100,000. You'll be able to identify and prevent defects, develop effective repair strategies, and improve overall weld quality, making you a highly sought-after expert in industries like aerospace, automotive, and construction, where precision and reliability are paramount.