The Welding pathway is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers in welding and related fields.
This pathway provides hands-on training in various welding techniques and processes, preparing students for immediate entry into the workforce or further education in welding technology. Through a combination of classroom instruction, practical experience, and industry engagement, students will develop the competencies needed to excel in this high-demand field.
Whether students aspire to become professional welders, welding engineers, or pursue higher education in welding technology, this pathway provides a solid foundation for their future endeavors.
Welding Pathway at a Glance
Welding Courses
Introduction to Welding, Intermediate Welding, Production Welding, Welding Blueprint Reading, Shielded Metal Arc Welding, Gas Metal Arc Welding, Gas Tungsten Arc Welding
Other Suggested Courses
Computer Aided Drafting, Intro to Manufacturing, Machining and Manufacturing, Intro to Engineering Design, Introduction to Business
Check out the Program of Studies for a complete list of course offerings and descriptions.
National Workforce Statistics for Welders
| 2023 U.S. median pay | $48,940 per year/$25.53 per hour |
| No. of jobs in 2022 | 431,800 |
| Projected no. needed annually | 42,600 |
Southeast Iowa Workforce Statistics
| Average wage | $23.10-$24.70 per hour |
| Openings | 25 per year |
Welding Courses, Learning Objectives & Areas of Focus
Introduction to Welding
This introductory course familiarizes students with the properties, uses, and applications of various metals. Students will gain hands-on experience with welding processes such as oxyacetylene welding and cutting, shielded metal arc welding (ARC), and gas metal arc welding (MIG). The course also introduces plasma cutting techniques, providing a solid foundation for further study in welding.
Intermediate Welding
Building on the basics learned in the Introduction to Welding, this course offers more advanced instruction in welding processes. Students will gain experience with oxyacetylene welding, shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), and plasma arc design and cutting. This course is ideal for sophomores and juniors looking to deepen their welding skills.
Welding Blueprint Reading (SCC Credit)
This course focuses on the fundamental skills needed to interpret welding blueprints and drafting documents. Emphasis is placed on understanding welding symbols and developing the ability to read and work from blueprints. This course is essential for students planning to enter the welding trade or registered apprenticeships.
Production Welding
In this repeatable course, students apply their welding skills to design and construct projects of their choosing with instructor approval. Participants have the opportunity to compete in the Lincoln Electric National Welding contest and other local and state competitions. This course emphasizes practical application and advanced techniques in welding.
Shielded Metal Arc Welding – Basic (SMAW) (SCC Credit)
This course provides a thorough understanding of shielded metal arc welding fundamentals, including weld hazards, safety, power sources, and electrode selection. Students will develop the skills necessary to make high-quality welds on mild steel in all positions. The course is designed for seniors and juniors but is open to sophomores with no prior welding experience.
Gas Metal Arc Welding – Basic (GMAW) (SCC Credit)
Students in this course will learn about weld safety, gas metal arc welding fundamentals, equipment adjustments, metal transfer, and shielding gases. The course is designed to develop the skills needed to weld mild steel in all positions. Like the SMAW course, it is geared toward seniors and juniors but is open to sophomores.
Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (SCC Credit)
This course offers a comprehensive understanding of the TIG (Heliarc) welding process, including metal characteristics, electrode selection, filler metals, and shielding gases. Emphasis is placed on weld safety and procedures, preparing students for advanced welding applications.
Other Suggested Courses
Computer-Aided Drafting I (CAD I) (SCC Credit Available)
Students are introduced to the fundamentals of Computer-Aided Drafting in both 2D and 3D formats. It is highly recommended for all freshmen and those interested in pursuing advanced Industrial Technology classes. This course is essential for students who wish to understand the drafting and design aspects of welding projects.
Introduction to Manufacturing (Formerly Metals I)
Students learn basic measurement, planning, and layout skills pertinent to metalworking. The class involves melting an alloy and pouring it into a student-made mold to form a casting, cutting and forming sheet metal into a toolbox, and operating a machine lathe to produce a turned project. This course is recommended for students interested in metalworking, machining, welding, or any manufacturing field, providing a strong foundation for further study in welding and manufacturing.
Machining and Manufacturing
Designed for students interested in machining and machine operating careers, this course also applies to manufacturing engineering and related fields. Students gain practical experience with metal-cutting machines, including lathes, vertical milling machines, band saws, and drill presses. The course also introduces Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) machines and waterjet cutting using G Code. Emphasis is placed on precision measurement and tolerances. This course is ideal for those looking to enhance their machining skills alongside their welding training.
Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) – PLTW (Project Lead The Way)
This comprehensive course spans three trimesters and is open to students with a strong foundation in math and science. It employs a problem-solving model to improve existing products and invent new ones. Students use sophisticated 3D modeling software to communicate product details and develop solutions. This course is particularly beneficial for students interested in engineering and industrial vocations, providing valuable skills that complement welding and manufacturing training.
Introduction to Business
This applied course explains the role of business in the economic system, covering topics such as business ownership, forms of business organization, new technologies, and current trends. Students will also learn about insurance, the use of credit, and career exploration. This practical course is beneficial for any student and provides essential knowledge for those looking to understand the business aspects of the welding and manufacturing industries.
