FAQ

The following information provides responses to frequently asked questions about the Welding Technology program.

What is Welding Technology?

The scope of welding continues to grow as technological advancements improve its accuracy, quality, and versatility. Welding is no longer about working on a manufacturing line; welders of today have versatile skills to meet growing industry demands.

The welder of today is learning advanced skills to be successful in the world of tomorrow. It is not uncommon to find welders operate robots or use automated systems using cutting edge technology. As technological needs advance, welders are learning to adapt to an evolving market, using computers and program software for daily operations. Fabrication skills, processes, and techniques are fast becoming the new standard.

Students who like problem-solving and enjoy designing and building with metal and have interests in fields like fabrication, materials engineering, robotics, lasers, computer programming, and systems integration will find excellent career opportunities in welding.

The American Welding Society is the largest organization in the world dedicated to advancing the science, technology, and application of welding and allied processes. For more information about welding or welding careers visit the American Welding Society at www.AWS.org.

What types of metal fabrication equipment will I learn to use?

  • CNC Plasma Cutter
  • Bandsaw
  • Ironworker
  • Shear
  • CNC Pressbrake
  • Hydraulic Press
  • Pipe/Tube Bender
  • Roll Bender
  • Air Tools

What kinds of skills and qualities are needed to be successful?

Because welding covers so many different areas, specific qualities that help to be successful in this field are as follows:

  • Ability to bend and lift
  • Ability to work in confined spaces
  • Ability to work in a team structure
  • Basic mechanical ability
  • Effective problem-solving skills
  • Good hand-eye coordination
  • Manual dexterity
  • Patience
  • Proficient computer skills
  • Solid math skills

What types of welding and cutting skills will I learn? 

Our program offers training in a variety of welding formats that include: 

  • Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) 
  • Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) 
  • Oxy-Fuel Cutting (OFC) 
  • Plasma Arc Cutting  (PAC)
  • Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) 
  • Submerged Arc Welding (SAW)
  • Flux Core Arc Welding (FCAW)