The Production Welding – Workforce Academy program is designed to teach students the basic skills needed for entry-level manufacturing welding using the Gas Metal Arc Welding (MIG) process. The program includes both classroom and hands-on lab training, covering weld safety, machine setup, welding techniques, and procedures for welding carbon steel in flat, horizontal, and vertical positions. Students will also gain training in general math, workplace efficiency, communication, and job searching to help secure and maintain employment in this high-demand field.
Length: Approximately 8 weeks, meeting 3 times a week.
Format: On-campus instruction (check upcoming offerings for specific locations).
Certifications: N/A (Program provides foundational skills for entry-level welding positions, but certification may be available separately based on future training or testing).
Career and Job Outlook
Career Opportunities: Welding skills are highly sought after in manufacturing environments. Graduates of this program will be prepared for entry-level welding positions in various industries, such as construction, manufacturing, and maintenance.
Employment Rate: High demand for welders in the workforce, especially in manufacturing and construction industries.
Salary Expectations: Welders can expect competitive salaries, with the potential for growth as they gain more experience and certifications.
Job Market Trends: The demand for skilled welders is expected to remain strong due to ongoing industrial development and the need for maintenance in existing infrastructures.
Program Details
Program-Specific Details:
- Students will learn how to properly weld carbon steel in flat, horizontal, and vertical positions.
- Emphasis will be placed on safety, machine setup, welding techniques, and procedures.
- Basic math skills, job communication, time management, and job searching techniques will also be covered to prepare students for the workforce.
Pathway to Credit: This is a non-credit training program aimed at quickly preparing students for entry-level employment in welding. Additional certifications or advanced programs may offer pathways for credit accumulation or professional certification.
Cost and Financial Assistance
Tuition Fees: Check the program’s page for up-to-date pricing based on the course offerings and location.
Tuition Assistance Options: Financial aid may be available through workforce development programs or grants. Specific financial assistance details can be provided upon request.
Work-Study Programs: N/A for this program, but some students may be eligible for state-based workforce development funding or job placement assistance.
How to Enroll
Enrollment Process: There are no entrance exams or specific admission requirements for this program. Students can start the enrollment process by completing the Education to Employment Interest Form available on the program’s webpage.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Age: 16+.
- No prior experience in welding is required, though basic skills in math and hand-eye coordination are beneficial.
Deadlines: Check the program’s page for upcoming session start dates.
Next Steps After Interest Form: Once the interest form is submitted, students will be contacted by staff from the Education to Employment team to discuss program enrollment and tuition assistance options.
Program Requirements & Equipment
Personal Protective Equipment:
- Students are required to provide and wear jeans, steel-toe boots, welding jacket, clear safety glasses, and MIG welding gloves.
- Welding helmet, tools, and materials will be provided.
Pre-course Skills:
- Students should have basic math skills for measurements and reading technical drawings.
- Good hand-eye coordination, physical fitness, and attention to detail are important.
- Problem-solving and communication skills are essential for successful collaboration in the workplace.
- An open attitude towards learning new techniques and technologies will help students keep pace with advances in the field.
