Welding
Program Overview
The Welding Technology curriculum combines not only advanced welding skills but related technical courses designed to prepare students for employment as welders, welder-fitters, specialist welders, or ultimately, welding supervisors, analysts, inspectors, and welding technicians. It emphasizes a sound understanding of the science, technology, and application essential for successful employment in the welding and metal industries.
Additionally, the American Welding Society standards are stressed throughout the program. This focus on compliance with industry standards ensures that students are well-prepared to meet the expectations of the welding profession and are capable of conducting their work safely and effectively.
Degree Information
The Welding Technology curriculum combines not only advanced welding skills but related technical courses designed to prepare students for employment as welders, welder-fitters, specialist welders, or ultimately, welding supervisors, analysts, inspectors, and welding technicians. The American Welding Society standards are stressed.
Course Guides
Jefferson College Institutional Course Guides (ICGs) are found in the Simple Syllabus - Syllabus Library AND/OR within your Canvas class page via the Simple Syllabus link in the Course Navigation Menu.
Please note the following supplies are required:
- Equipment is needed by the start of the second week of class (Supplies for Basic Tool Kit: Gas and Beginner Arc Welding ONLY are Bolded)
- Safety glasses: Must meet or exceed ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 specification
- Welding helmet: Fixed Shade with #10 lens or Auto Darkening w/ multi shade adjustment (auto darkening helmets are highly recommended)
- Cutting glasses w/ #5 shade lens (welding helmet may be substituted if it can be adjusted down to shade #5)
- Lightweight welding jacket
- Heavy welding gloves- gauntlet type
- Lightweight welding gloves
- Tip cleaners
- Half-Round file
- Chipping hammer
- Hand wire brush
- 12” combination square
- 11R Vise-grips (or equivalent)
- 6R Vise-grips (or equivalent)
- Flint striker
- Padlock (high school students will have a lock supplied by instructor)
- Small tool bag (high school student’s tool bags must fit in a locker)
- Small flashlight (500 lumen output MAX)
- Permanent Marker (Black)
- Pen or pencil with paper
*Equipment list is subject to change. Jefferson College does not recommend any particular supplier over another. However, all tools should be of professional quality.
Career Opportunities
There are various types of welding jobs available, including construction welders who build essential structures like bridges and buildings, manufacturing welders who work on metal components, and specialized roles like underwater and aerospace welders. This variety allows welders to choose careers that align with their interests, whether they prefer working in urban construction sites or remote environments like oil rigs.
The welding industry is expected to see continuous growth, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasting a 3% increase in welding careers over the next decade. The American Welding Society has noted that the U.S. will require approximately 400,000 additional welders by 2025, primarily due to retirements of current skilled workers. This demand creates a favorable environment for newly trained welders entering the job market, offering them a chance to secure stable employment.
News
Congratulations to Welding student Joshuah Akers, who received a $2,500 scholarship from Bi-State Fabricators for Fall 2025.
