Information Needs of Blue‐Collar Workers: Welding Challenges and the Potential of Smart Welding Tools.

Research on work and occupations in the information field have largely focused on white‐collar jobs. Little is known about the information and technology experiences and behaviors of workers in blue‐collar jobs. This study examines the user experiences of current welding tools and welding training and asks how integration of information feedback through smart technology in welding tools can help welders do their jobs safer, easier, and faster. We conducted 14 in‐depth interviews with members of Longhorn Racing, a student organization that designs, builds, and tests race cars. Participants experienced frustrations with the dangerous and technical setup and the limited vision and information feedback from welding tools. Many argued that the integration of smart technology into welding tools could improve their experience. These innovations could lead to faster training and reduced attrition in the welding industry. Further, this research points to the urgent need for more research on blue‐collar workers in the information field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]