Welding Technology
Welding is the most common way of permanently joining metal. Because of its strength, welding is used to build and repair a myriad of products, from pipelines and power plants to ships and spacecraft. Job opportunities are on the rise as the demand for highly trained welders increases with industries throughout the world. Welders plan the sequence of operations and select the equipment to be used according to the kinds of metals involved and the type of weld to be made. The Welding Technology Program is designed to provide skill development in currently used welding processes including brazing, soldering, arc welding, gas welding, resistance welding, and solid state welding. Additionally, skill development may be obtained in oxy-fuel cutting, arc cutting, thermal cutting, thermal spraying, and adhesive bonding. Welders work indoors and outdoors, often welding in awkward positions. Students seeking this degree will need to choose between a construction and pipe welding specialty or an industrial and equipment specialty.
This is a career and technical education program. Some of the courses may not transfer to four-year institutions.
Licensure/Certification
This program prepares students to take the certification exams reflecting the structural codes and standards set by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME 9), American Welding Society (AWS), and the National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER).
Sample Job Titles
Construction Steel Erector, industrial fabrication heavy, industrial fabrication light, industrial maintenance, robotic welding operators, specialty welding, piping fabrication, welding fabrication supervisors, tank and pressure vessels welding, recreational vehicle design & fabrication, welding instructors
Available Degrees and Certificates