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Want to kickstart a lucrative welding career in Seattle? You’re in the right place.
This article breaks down the top welder schools in Seattle, WA, highlighting their unique programs and opportunities.
Expect a concise guide to help you choose the best school to meet your career goals.
South Seattle College – Welding Fabrication Technology Program
Discover the Welding Fabrication Technology program at South Seattle College. This program equips you with the skills needed to excel in the welding industry. Choose from multiple pathways, including:
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree: Requires 96 credits.
- AAS-T (Transfer) degree: Requires 101 credits.
- Certificate program: Aims at immediate employment with 66 credits.
What You’ll Learn
The curriculum covers essential welding skills such as:
- Blueprint reading
- Layout and fitting
- Cutting and welding parts
- Computer-controlled machinery operation
This program also offers hands-on training through its unique partnership with Vigor Industrial Shipyards, providing practical experience at the Harbor Island Training Center.
Graduates are well-prepared for various roles, including:
- Weld fabricators
- Shop supervisors and estimators
- Entrepreneurs as shop owners
You will also have the opportunity to test for WABO (Washington Association of Building Officials) certification, which is highly respected in the industry.
South Seattle College’s program offers industry-specific training, making it ideal for careers in sectors like boat building, automotive, machine fabrication, commercial fishing gear, piping systems, and building construction.
Visit the Welding Fabrication Technology program at South Seattle College for more information.
Lake Washington Institute of Technology – Welding Technology Program
The Welding Technology program at Lake Washington Institute of Technology delivers up-to-date welding processes and techniques necessary for a thriving welding career. The program offers specializations in:
- Aerospace welding
- Fabrication welding
- Pipe welding
- Structural and plate welding
Practical Learning Environment
The state-of-the-art welding facility provides an optimal learning environment with a blend of theory and hands-on practice. Upon program completion, you’ll be prepared to:
- Pass the WABO test
- Meet the American Welding Society (AWS) standards
Classes include:
- Theory instruction
- Safety guidelines
- Hands-on welding practice
These are generally conducted from Monday to Friday on the Kirkland campus.
Access and Opportunities
Lake Washington Institute of Technology boasts impressive job placement rates, helping you secure positions in:
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Industrial maintenance
- Creative metalworking industries
Achieving WABO certification through the program will significantly enhance your employability in these fields.
For more details, visit the Welding Technology program at Lake Washington Institute of Technology.
HazardFactory – Welding Classes
HazardFactory in Seattle offers a wide range of welding classes tailored for both beginners and experienced welders. They specialize in:
- MIG welding
- Stick (SMAW) welding
- TIG (GTAW) welding
Hands-On Training
HazardFactory is known for its practical, fast-paced teaching methodology and has trained more beginners than any other welding school in the U.S. Courses also cover:
- Metalworking and cold-metal forming techniques
- General tool use
Prices range from $100 to $250 depending on course duration and complexity, with all necessary equipment provided.
Personalized and Group Learning
For more advanced techniques, HazardFactory offers private lessons. They even organize team-building activities and birthday parties. Classes are suitable for adults and youth aged 13 and above.
The school receives high praise for its focused and effective teaching approach.
To learn more, visit HazardFactory.
South Seattle College – Welding Fabrication Technology Certificate Program
South Seattle College offers a Welding Fabrication Technology Certificate program designed with industry standards in mind. This program is ideal for those looking to gain a robust set of skills over a shorter term compared to degree options.
What You’ll Learn
Students in this certificate program can expect to gain knowledge and hands-on experience in several key areas:
- Blueprint reading: Understanding technical diagrams for accurate welding tasks.
- Geometry application: Using geometric principles for layout and fitting.
- Metal properties: Learning about different metals and their behaviors under various conditions.
- Practical welding skills: Gaining hands-on experience with tools and equipment.
Ideal Career Paths
This program prepares you for diverse roles such as:
- Boat building
- Automotive welding
- Machine fabrication
- Commercial fishing gear technician
- Piping systems installer
- Building construction
Program Features
- Flexible Start Dates: Classes are available in Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer.
- Certification Opportunities: Preparation for Washington Association of Building Officials (WABO) certification.
- Modern Facilities: Access to up-to-date resources and equipment.
Entry Requirements
To enroll, you need to:
- Pass a placement test: Ensuring the right level of proficiency.
- Attend an advising session: Matching the program with your career goals.
Visit the Welding Fabrication Technology Certificate program page for more details.
How to Choose the Best Welding School in Seattle
Choosing the right welding school can make a significant impact on your career. Here’s a guide to help you select the best option among welder schools in Seattle, WA:
Key Considerations
- Accreditation: Ensure the school has proper accreditation, reflecting its educational standards.
- Program Length: Determine if you need a quick certificate or a more comprehensive degree.
- Costs: Evaluate the total costs, including tuition, fees, books, and other materials.
- Facilities: Visit the campus and inspect the welding labs and equipment.
- Job Placement Rates: Look for schools with high job placement rates.
- Specializations and Certifications: Seek programs offering specialized training and certification opportunities.
- Industry Partnerships: Schools with strong industry ties provide valuable internships and job placements.
- Reputation and Reviews: Research what former students have to say about the program.
Making Your Decision
- Visit Schools: Take campus tours to get a feel for the learning environment and facilities.
- Talk to Advisors: Meet with program advisors to discuss your goals and see how the program aligns with them.
- Compare Curriculum: Look into the curriculum of each program to ensure it covers what you need.
- Consider Location: Choose a school that is easily accessible to you.
By evaluating these factors, you can choose the best welder school in Seattle, WA, that aligns with your career aspirations.
Conclusion: Begin Your Welding Career Today
Embarking on a welding career is an exciting and rewarding journey. Seattle offers several excellent schools to help you acquire the necessary skills and certifications. Whether you choose South Seattle College, Lake Washington Institute of Technology, or HazardFactory, each has unique strengths to set you on the path to success in the welding industry.
Explore these options and start shaping your future today. Visit the links provided to learn more about each program and take the first step towards your new career.
Ready to begin? Dive into your research and take action toward a fulfilling welding career.