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Feeling overwhelmed trying to choose the best welding program? You’re not alone.
This article lists the top-rated Welder Schools in West Virginia, detailing why each program stands out. Whether you’re eyeing certifications or hands-on training, we’ve got you covered.
Ben Franklin Career Center – Kanawha County Schools Welding Program
The Ben Franklin Career Center offers a specialized seven-month welding program through the Kanawha County Schools Welding Program. It aims to equip adults with essential welding skills to thrive in various industries.
Key Highlights:
- Course Flexibility: Classes begin in July, February, and October, allowing multiple entry points within the year.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The curriculum includes fundamentals of welding, thermal cutting operations, shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), flux-cored arc welding (FCAW), blueprint reading, metallurgy, and fabrication.
- Certification: Students can take up to eight certification tests by the WV Department of Education and earn an OSHA 10 certification.
- Hands-on Training: Equipped with a state-of-the-art lab, students gain practical experience crucial for career readiness.
- Graduation Requirements: To graduate, students must maintain a 70% or better overall grade, less than 10% absenteeism, and pass a drug screening.
Entry Requirements:
- Age 18 or older
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Must pass an entrance exam with a score of 8 or above in reading and mathematics
Graduates from this program often find rewarding roles in assembling, fabricating, boilermaking, pipeline welding, and more. The program’s emphasis on certifications and practical skills makes it a strong candidate for those keen on joining the welding industry.
West Virginia University at Parkersburg – Welding Technology Program
The Welding Technology Program at West Virginia University at Parkersburg (WVU-P) prepares students to enter various industrial sectors with robust welding skills.
Key Highlights:
- Diverse Curriculum: The program covers gas and shielded metal arc welding, flux cord, gas tungsten arc welding, blueprint reading, and tool maintenance.
- Educational Pathways: Students can choose between a Certificate of Applied Science in Welding Technology, completing it in one academic year, or an Associate of Applied Science in Welding Technology.
- Certification Preparation: The program meets all licensing test standards, ensuring students are well-equipped for certifications.
- Practical Skills: Training includes hand welding, flame cutting, soldering, and brazing.
Career Opportunities:
- Welding shops
- Construction industry
- Manufacturing sector
WVUP-P’s strong curriculum and hands-on training ensure that graduates are prepared to meet the industry’s demands effectively. Prospective students can apply online or schedule a campus visit for more information.
Mountwest Community & Technical College – Welding Technology
At Mountwest Community & Technical College, the Welding Technology program emphasizes hands-on learning in collaboration with the Robert C. Byrd Institute.
Key Highlights:
- Small Class Sizes: Enhanced student-instructor interaction and personalized learning experiences.
- Safety Focus: With an emphasis on safety protocols, students learn to maintain a secure work environment.
- Technical Skills: Training covers TIG, MIG, and SMAW welding, along with metal cutting techniques.
- Extended Curriculum: Interpersonal communication, technical report writing, computer skills, and technical math are also part of the program.
Certifications:
- Opportunities to earn American Welding Society (AWS) certifications.
This program is ideal for both full-time students and working professionals seeking to improve their skills. Graduates often work in industries like machinery manufacturing, agriculture, construction, and automotive body manufacturing.
West Virginia Northern Community College – Welding Technology Program
The West Virginia Northern Community College (WVNCC) offers a Welding Technology program leading to an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree.
Key Highlights:
- Standards-Based Curriculum: The program aligns with American Welding Society (AWS) standards.
- Hands-on Learning: The curriculum includes SMAW, TIG, MIG welding, and covers various welding materials.
- Comprehensive Training: Trainees learn to weld plate and pipe in all positions, ensuring versatility in skills.
Graduates from WVNCC are highly sought after for their comprehensive training and practical experience. They pursue careers in diverse industrial sectors, showcasing their readiness for real-world challenges.
Pierpont Community & Technical College – Advanced Welding Program
Pierpont Community & Technical College focuses on modern training techniques with its Advanced Welding Program.
Key Highlights:
- Virtual Welding Machines: Students practice on state-of-the-art virtual machines, building confidence before using actual welding equipment.
- Diverse Curriculum: Topics include Basic and Intermediate SMAW, GMAW/Flux Core, Gas Tungsten Arc Welding, Weld Theory, Fabrication, and Inspection.
Enrollment:
- Open enrollment policy makes it accessible to a wide range of students.
Pierpont offers a cutting-edge training environment that prepares students for careers in industries like sheet metal work and steelwork.
Mercer County Technical Education Center – Welding Program
The Mercer County Technical Education Center provides a one-year Welding Program designed to mirror real-world work environments.
Key Highlights:
- Certification Opportunities: Students can earn NOCTI and WV Welding Certifications.
- Diverse Courses: The program includes Welding I-IV, Gas Tungsten, and Welding Gas and Metal.
- Structured Schedules: Morning or afternoon classes support flexible learning.
Graduates from Mercer County find opportunities in various fields where technical welding skills and strong work ethics are valued. The center’s approach towards practical learning sets students up for successful careers.
Blue Ridge Community and Technical College – Welding Certificate Program
The Blue Ridge Community and Technical College offers a one-year Welding Certificate Program designed for hands-on training.
Key Highlights:
- Diverse Techniques: The curriculum covers various welding techniques, including Stick, ARC, MIG, and TIG welding.
- Workforce Entry: The program prepares students for immediate employment in welding and fabrication roles.
- Admission Requirements: Students need a high school diploma or equivalent and a completed application packet.
- Experienced Faculty: The program is led by industry-seasoned instructors dedicated to student success.
Graduates find numerous job opportunities in local industries. This program is ideal for those looking to quickly enter the workforce with industry-relevant skills.
Eastern West Virginia Community and Technical College – Welding Program
The Eastern West Virginia Community and Technical College offers a focused Welding Program located at Mineral County Technical Center.
Key Highlights:
- Experienced Instruction: Led by Carl Rexrode, an industry veteran.
- Hands-on Training: A 75-hour program includes extensive practical training.
- Program Cost: Tuition is $2,195, covering necessary supplies.
- Curriculum Focus: Emphasis on welding techniques and proficiency to enhance earning potential.
The program’s practical approach, along with strong industry connections, prepares students for a productive career in welding.
West Virginia Northern Community College – Welding Courses
West Virginia Northern Community College provides various welding courses aimed at equipping students with essential welding skills.
Key Highlights:
- SMAW I and II: These courses cover Stick Welding basics through advanced level, including vertical and multi-position welding.
- MIG I and II: From introductory to advanced MIG welding, students gain knowledge preparing them for certification tests.
- TIG Welding: This course involves vertical open root techniques, ensuring certification readiness.
These courses include ample practice and certification preparation, making WVNCC an excellent choice for aspiring welders.
Carver Career and Technical Education Center – Welding Technology
The Carver Career and Technical Education Center in Charleston offers a two-year Welding Technology program.
Key Highlights:
- Approved by AWS: The program is nationally approved by the American Welding Society.
- Comprehensive Training: Covers SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, OFW, FCAW, PAC, CAC-A, and OFC.
- Additional Skills: Includes blueprint-reading, CNC plasma cutting, and basic AutoCAD.
- Certification Opportunities: The program offers a WV Department of Education Certificate and industry certification at Carver’s Welding Certification Test Site.
Graduates from Carver’s program enter the workforce with proven skills and certifications, making them valuable in various industries.
Choosing the Right Welder School in West Virginia
Selecting the best welding program is crucial for your career development. Here are key considerations to guide your decision:
- Accreditation: Ensure the institution is accredited by relevant bodies to meet industry standards.
- Curriculum: Look for comprehensive programs covering various welding techniques and related skills.
- Hands-on Training: Verify the availability of modern equipment and lab access for hands-on learning.
- Certification Opportunities: Choose programs that prepare you for recognized certifications like AWS.
- Post-Graduation Support: Consider schools offering job placement assistance and industry connections.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Evaluate the total program cost and explore financial aid options.
- Location and Schedule Flexibility: Ensure the location is convenient and class schedules fit your commitments.
- Reputation and Reviews: Research the school’s reputation through alumni and employer reviews to verify its success rate.
By thoroughly researching each program, you can make an informed choice and embark on a lucrative welding career in West Virginia.
Welder Schools By State
Conclusion
Investing time to choose the right welding school will pay off in your career. West Virginia offers several outstanding options, each providing unique strengths in training, certification, and job placement. Explore these programs in detail, and take the next step towards your future in welding.
Interested in more detailed insights into each program? Visit their respective websites to gather further information and determine which program aligns best with your career goals and personal preferences.