Overview

The Welding Program provides specialized training in welding safety, welding theory, mathematics, cost analysis, blueprint reading and pipe template development. Students learn a variety of welding techniques including SMAW, GMAW, FCAW and GTAW as well as oxy-fuel welding/cutting and carbon arc and plasma cutting/gouging. Students become proficient in all national code and standard positions on mild steel, aluminum and stainless steel plate and pipe. Upon successful completion of the one-year program, students receive a Welding Certificate and are eligible to sit for certification examinations in a wide variety of welding disciplines.

Fort Hays Tech | North Central Welding Technology program is in alignment with the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) CIP code 48.0508: Welding Technology/Welder. A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to join or cut metal surfaces. Includes instruction in arc welding, resistance welding, brazing and soldering, cutting, high-energy beam welding and cutting, solid state welding, ferrous and non-ferrous materials, oxidation-reduction reactions, welding metallurgy, welding processes and heat treating, structural design, safety, and applicable codes and standards. 

Campus

Beloit
Hays

Department Chair

Beloit: Kyle Kopsa
Hays: Dillon Bell

Program Instructors

Blake Schroeder

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Program Outcomes

  • Apply safe working practices while welding and cutting.
  • Prepare quality welds using the SMAW process on pipe and plate in all positions.
  • Prepare quality welds using the OFW/Brazing process in all positions.
  • Produce quality cuts using various cutting equipment and techniques on carbon, stainless and aluminum in all positions.
  • Prepare quality welds using GMAW/FCAW process on pipe and plate in all positions.
  • Prepare quality welds using GTAW process on carbon, stainless and aluminum in all positions.
  • Prepare working drawings or blueprints to produce quality products.
  • Construct products from blueprints.
  • Students will have the opportunity to be AWS certified in the following weld positions: 
    • AWS 1F, 2F, 1G
    • AWS Standard D1.1

Awards

Required Courses

Total Required Hours: 44

T▸ - Course eligible for transfer to a state university.

Post Graduate Jobs

Job TitleAnnual Salary
Structural/Tank Construction$28 / hr
Piping$45 / hr
Oilfield Maintenance and Repair$22 / hr
Fabrication$19 / hr

Transfer Options

This program offers a seamless transition to Fort Hays State University for the following degrees:

Business & Industry Concentration (B.S.)

Career & Technical Education Concentration (B.S.)