Welder Programs Near You
Welding programs teach the hands-on skills needed to fuse and fabricate metal components in construction, manufacturing, and repair industries. Training focuses on safety, precision, and certification standards that prepare students for entry-level welding or metal fabrication roles.
Why Choose a Welding Program
Welding is a foundational trade in nearly every industry — from construction and shipbuilding to aerospace and energy production. Skilled welders work with precision tools and techniques to create and maintain critical infrastructure.
Program Advantages
- Learn industry-standard welding processes (MIG, TIG, Stick, and Flux-Cored)
- Train on real equipment with professional instructors
- Prepare for AWS certification exams and jobsite safety standards
- Build transferable metal fabrication and blueprint reading skills
What You’ll Learn
Each welding program combines classroom instruction with lab-based or shop-floor training. Common course topics include:
- Welding safety and metal preparation
- MIG (Gas Metal Arc) and TIG (Gas Tungsten Arc) welding
- Stick (Shielded Metal Arc) and Flux-Cored welding techniques
- Blueprint reading and fabrication drawings
- Metallurgy and material properties
- Cutting processes, oxy-fuel, and plasma arc operation
Students practice joining steel, aluminum, and stainless steel under guided supervision to meet certification standards.
Program Types and Duration
| Program Type | Typical Length | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate | 6–9 months | Core welding techniques and shop safety |
| Diploma | 9–12 months | Advanced welding, fabrication, and blueprint reading |
| Associate Degree | 2 years | Welding technology and manufacturing processes |
Graduates are prepared to enter apprenticeships, fabrication shops, or construction sites as entry-level welders or welding assistants.
Program Costs and Training Options
Tuition varies by program length and institution.
- Certificate or diploma programs: approximately $1,500–$10,000
- Associate degree programs: typically $6,000–$20,000
Many trade schools offer full-time, part-time, or evening options for working students.
Use the form above to find accredited welding programs that fit your schedule.
Welder Programs by State
Explore accredited welding schools and training programs in your area:
California · Texas · Florida · New York · Illinois
Georgia · Pennsylvania · Ohio · Arizona · North Carolina
How to Get Started
Most welding programs require only a high school diploma or GED.
After completing your training, you can pursue AWS certification and entry-level welding work under supervision.
Next steps
- Read How to Become a Welder
- Request information from local trade schools above
- Compare class schedules, equipment, and certification options
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Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. He’s the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.
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