TIG welding machines, while useful for certain specialized jobs, will probably not be necessary in the beginning. They are generally good for more precise welds that require additional control over a smaller area. TIG welders tend to be cheaper than MIG welders, with the average model costing ar...
just locate a AWS accredited test facility near you and pick a test that is not too difficult and knock it out. I have only had a few jobs that ever recognized a previous certification. they always made me test to their specs and the test was different every time...