Sparks Flying

The Welding Program offers three certificates and allows students to enter welding classes at their level of expertise to learn the skills necessary to obtain one of three possible certifications. All courses are taught using American Welding Society (AWS) standards and procedures.

BASIC TECHNICIAN:
This program gives students a good basis for an entry-level position in a high-demand occupation. The program provides entry-level skills for becoming a welder’s helper or beginning welder. Students will learn basic skills in welding equipment operation, safety instruction, welding processes, and fabrication. The skills taught at this level give each student the ability to continue in an advanced program, ensuring the skills needed for employment.

INTERMEDIATE TECHNICIAN:
This program is designed to give students an overview of the welding industry, including familiarization with welding machines and processes. Skills taught include basic welding, oxy-fuel cutting, and beginning welding skills. Safety as related to the welding industry is particularly stressed. Graduates of this course will be prepared to seek entry-level employment in welding.

ADVANCED TECHNICIAN:
This specialized program is designed to prepare students for many AWS certifications and will allow graduates to seek high-paying jobs in the welding industry. Students learn technical information and skills training in welding all positions on plate and pipe material. Graduates will develop skills in industrial welding, oxy-fuel cutting, shielded metal arc welding, gas metal arc welding, plasma cutting, gas tungsten arc welding, and pipe welding. They will also choose to specialize in one of these areas.