I worked as a certified welding inspector for a power plant. The welders we have are amazing. Each got their start in every way mentioned and more. Here is my opinion- if he wants to weld the copper mines or power company is a great place to start. He should take every opportunity to grind, cut and strike an arch. Great welding is an art that has to be developed by hands on.
That said the college will provide a great opportunity for metallurgy and theory most on the job guys don’t get. Production welders follow welding plans prepared by an engineer. It’s like a recipe for each weld. Point being, he’ll be give angle, technique, rod required, inter pass temperature, weld thickness and such.
Good hunting for your son’s future-