Despite the advancements in arc welding technology, there are still challenges faced by the industry in achieving high-quality and efficient metal joining processes. The lack of understanding of the welding process, the limitations of current welding equipment, and the need for skilled welders are some of the key issues that need to be addressed to improve the arc welding process for industrial applications. Additionally, the increasing demand for high-quality welded products in various industries has put pressure on manufacturers to enhance their welding processes to meet the growing market requirements. This study is based on a holistic assessment of conventional studies on arc welding processes, focusing on the metal joining approach for industrial applications. The research methodology involved a literature search of existing studies on the recent trends and applications, operation principles, welding positions, edge preparation techniques, arc welding electrodes, classification of welding machines and joint designs in arc welding processes using online databases. A thorough analysis of the findings in existing literature and industry reports was also conducted to conclude the trends in arc welding technology. The findings revealed that there have been significant advancements in welding technology over the years, including the development of new welding techniques such as pulsed arc welding and waveform control welding. Furthermore, the introduction of Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) and Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) has also played a key role in improving the efficiency and quality of metal joining processes while shaping the future of manufacturing industries. However, challenges such as weld defects, distortion, and lack of skilled welders persist in the industry. To address these challenges, manufacturers must invest in advanced welding equipment, automation, and training programs to enhance welding quality and efficiency. This can enable them to meet the growing market demands for high-quality welded products while maintaining a competitive edge in the industry.