Welding & Fabrication

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Technical Diploma

Program Number:

314421

Credits:

31.00

Financial Aid Eligible

Typical Start:

Fall

Skilled welders are in great demand, and the outlook for employment remains good in our region and nationwide as the manufacturing and construction industries continue to grow. If you possess good math skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to quality work, welding could be the career for you.

In Western's program, you will receive comprehensive training that covers both theory and practical aspects in all types of welding, including shielded metal arc, oxy-fuel, gas metal arc, and gas tungsten arc welding. You'll learn about the proper use of tools and equipment, safety, and blueprint reading as you practice welding joints in different positions and on various types of metals.

Heavy construction and manufacturing sectors depend on skilled welders and offer excellent wages to those who are up for the challenge.

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Estimated Program Costs

Graduation Employment Stats

	Part Time	Full Time
Responding	0	7
Average Hours Per Week		45
Average Hourly Wage		$21.63
Hourly Wage Range		$18.00-$27.50
Average Annual Salary		$67,499

Career Opportunities

Welder

Production Welder

Fabrication Welder

Mig/Tig Welder

Metal Fabricator

Pipe Welder

Robotic Welder

Program Outcomes

Demonstrate industry recognized safety practices
Interpret welding drawings
Produce shielded metal arc welds (SMAW)
Produce gas metal arc welds (GMAW)
Produce flux core welds
Produce gas tungsten arc welds (GTAW)
Perform thermal cutting

Admission Requirements

College Requirements

Application

$30 Application Fee

Software and Technology

This program requires specific software and technology to complete classwork. Click here to see the list of items you will need for your courses.

If you do not have access to the items listed for your program, or if the items you have do not meet the requirements, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.

Internet access is required to access student accounts from off campus. The Learning Commons can provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu or call 608-785-9198.

For additional specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.

Career Pathways

This program is part of a career pathway, a laddered approach to career education. It allows you to earn employer-recognized credentials that lead to job and career advancement.