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Interested in becoming a skilled welder in Missouri?
Discover the top welder schools in the state that offer top-notch training and education.
This guide highlights the best options for aspiring welders, ensuring you find the right program to start a rewarding welding career.
Read on to explore the top welder schools in Missouri.
Missouri Welding Institute – Master Pipe Welding & Fitting
Missouri Welding Institute (MWI) is celebrated for its hands-on, industry-focused approach to welding education. Established in 1994, MWI offers the Master Pipe Welding & Fitting course, which equips you with the skills needed for high-level positions in field construction or pipe manufacturing.
Key Features of Missouri Welding Institute
- Specialized Programs: You can choose from courses such as the Master Pipe Welding & Fitting and Master Structural Welding & Fitting, both designed to sharpen your welding skills.
- Personalized Attention: MWI ensures one-on-one instruction to maximize your learning experience.
- Advanced Course Options: The Advanced Pipe Fitting program imparts vital knowledge in blueprint interpretation alongside hands-on practices.
- Flexible Start Dates: New welding classes begin every two weeks, making it easy to start learning.
- Financial Aid: Assistance is available to help cover tuition and living expenses.
- Recognition: MWI was named the American Welding Society Educational Facility of the Year.
MWI’s graduates often highlight the institute’s supportive environment and its successes in helping students land lucrative positions in welding. If you are serious about mastering welding in Missouri, MWI is a compelling option.
American Welding Academy – Pipe Welding & Fitting Course
Located in Union, Missouri, the American Welding Academy (AWA) offers highly focused welding education through its Pipe Welding & Fitting Course.
Highlights of American Welding Academy
- Intensive Training: The 24-week program prepares you comprehensively in varied welding techniques.
- Flexible Class Schedules: Choose between day classes from 6:00 am to 2:30 pm or evening classes from 2:00 pm to 10:30 pm.
- Certified Instructors: Learn from some of the best in the trade, ensuring high-quality instruction.
- Custom Classes: Tailor your training to meet specific professional needs.
- Accreditation: The academy is accredited by the Department of Higher Education, reinforcing its educational standards.
Costing $13,500 (as of April 2024), AWA’s programs underscore the need to explore financial options. Despite the expense, graduates benefit significantly from rigorous training and extensive job preparation, leading to successful careers.
State Technical College of Missouri – Welding Technology Program
The State Technical College of Missouri offers a Welding Technology program that leverages state-of-the-art facilities and tools to prepare you for diverse opportunities in welding.
Advantages of State Technical College of Missouri
- Modern Equipment: Features include 44 new Lincoln welders, an industrial CNC plasma table, and a robotic welder.
- Comprehensive Training: Curriculum spans pipeline, shipbuilding, and automotive manufacturing among others.
- Industry Certifications: Attain AWS Level I Entry Welder or AWS SENSE Level II Advanced Welder certifications within two years.
- Job Placement Success: A remarkable 93% placement rate with an average starting salary of $50,000.
- Articulation Credits: Transfer prior coursework credits from high schools or career centers.
This program stands out for blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills, making it a robust choice for those ready to enter the welding industry.
Ranken Technical College – Fabrication and Welding Technology
Ranken Technical College offers an exceptional Fabrication and Welding Technology program. Housed in a 7,500 square foot facility, Ranken provides diversified training, ensuring you master several welding processes.
Features of Ranken Technical College
- State-of-the-Art Facility: Includes 38 welding booths, a plasma cutting table, and advanced tools like a magnetic drill press.
- Diverse Curriculum: Gain expertise in GMAW (MIG), GTAW (TIG), SMAW (Stick), and FCAW (Flux Cored Arc Welding).
- Blueprint Reading and Inspection Training: Equip yourself with skills in quality inspection and structural fabrication.
- Flexible Schedules: Day programs include 8 weeks of instruction followed by 8 weeks of paid internship. Evening programs, typically for working adults, span over 9 months.
- Job Placement: An impressive 100% job placement rate enhances employment prospects.
- Financial Aid: Various scholarships and financial support options are available.
Ranken’s commitment to hands-on learning, combined with industry-grade equipment, ensures you are well-prepared for a successful welding career.
Crider’s Institute of Welding Technology – Master Welding Program
Crider’s Institute of Welding Technology is situated in Grain Valley, MO, offering a welcoming environment ideal for personalized, in-depth welding training. Crider’s prides itself on a low student-to-instructor ratio of 12:1, which ensures tailored one-on-one attention.
Features of Crider’s Institute of Welding Technology
- Diverse Programs: Their certified Master Welding Program covers a 16-week general certification and a 24-week advanced pipe welding certification. They also offer a Hobby Welding program.
- Hands-On Training: Approximately 80% of the course involves practical, hands-on welding activities.
- Experienced Instructors: Stan Crider, the head instructor, brings over 45 years of industry experience.
- Specialized Curriculum: Students learn techniques in pipe, stainless steel, and aluminum welding.
- Tuition Assistance: There are competitive class rates and financial aid options available.
With the possibility of completing certification in approximately 4 to 6 months, Crider’s Institute offers a path to quickly entering the workforce with practical skills and real-world readiness.
Missouri State University-West Plains – Advanced Welding/Fabrication Technology
The Advanced Welding/Fabrication Technology program at Missouri State University-West Plains infuses traditional trade skills with cutting-edge technology to deliver a robust welding education.
Benefits of Missouri State University-West Plains
- Comprehensive Training: The 32-week course covers welding, fabrication, CAD, print reading, and advanced robotics.
- Certification Opportunities: Earn certifications from the American Welding Society (AWS) and nc3.
- Varied Program Lengths: Opt for a two-year Associate of Applied Science in Technology or a one-year certificate.
- Modern Facilities: Training currently takes place at MSU-WP GOCAT but will soon move to the advanced Terry L. “Bo” Pace Workforce Training Center.
- Competitive Salary: Graduates enter a field with a median annual pay of $44,190.
- Financial Support: Scholarships such as the AWS Welder/Training Scholarship and the Mike Rowe Works Scholarship are available.
Missouri State University-West Plains combines modern technology with a curriculum that meets today’s industry demands, making it a superb choice for aspiring welders.
Choosing the Right Welding School in Missouri
Selecting the right welding school is pivotal for a successful career. Here are key factors to consider:
- Accreditation and Certification: Ensure that the welding school is accredited and its programs are certified by recognized bodies like the American Welding Society (AWS). This can enhance your job prospects and assure quality education.
- Curriculum and Training: Look for schools that offer a balance of theoretical knowledge and hands-on training. Modern equipment and facilities will significantly enhance your learning experience.
- Faculty Expertise: Instructors with real-world industry experience can provide invaluable insights and practical knowledge.
- Flexible Scheduling: Welding schools offering day, evening, or part-time courses can accommodate various schedules and commitments.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Compare tuition fees and check for financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and payment plans.
- Job Placement Rates: Schools with high job placement rates demonstrate program success in preparing students for the workforce.
- Student Reviews: Alumni feedback can shed light on the school’s strengths and areas for improvement.
- Support Services: Schools providing career counseling, internship opportunities, and ongoing post-graduation support are beneficial for long-term success.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a welding school in Missouri that suits your professional goals and personal circumstances.
Welder Schools By State
Conclusion
Missouri boasts exceptional welding schools, each offering distinct features to cater to the diverse needs of aspiring welders. Whether you prefer the personalized approach of Crider’s Institute of Welding Technology or the high-tech facilities of Ranken Technical College, you’re sure to find a program that aligns with your career aspirations. Make an informed decision and embark on an enriching and rewarding career in welding by choosing one of these top-rated welding schools.