I can tell you what welding training is. I weld am a Union Pipe welder, I weld everyday for a living. Welding training teaches about the welding process, what certain process are used for, and on and on and on. You can learn all of that from online or through books. The main training is welding itself. Welding training teaches you techniques for all process, Stick, Mig, and Tig. I have been welding since I was 16 years old and I'm now 26, after welding for 10 years I still learn something new each time I strike an arc. The only way you can get a job as welder is if you have training. My opinion is even after you have been to a welding school you don't turn out as welder. There is a lot to learn about welding, in a class room setting or welding shop setting, you may be the best in your class. When you get out the real world you are put in position they don't teach in school. Welding school will teach you the basic techniques needed for welding, and if you don't know the techniques you might have trouble getting hired as a welder.