Welder Schools in Bend OR

Are you looking to start a welding career in Bend, OR, but don’t know which school to choose?

This article highlights the top welder schools in Bend OR, detailing programs that provide the best training and certifications.

From practical hands-on experience to financial aid options, find out which school matches your career goals.

Central Oregon Community College – Welding One-Year Certificate of Completion

Central Oregon Community College (COCC) in Bend, OR offers a robust Welding One-Year Certificate of Completion. This program is ideal if you plan to enter the manufacturing workforce upon graduation.

What You’ll Learn

You will be trained in various advanced welding techniques including:

• Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)
• Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW)
• Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW)
• Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)
• Oxyacetylene Welding and Cutting
• Basic Fabrication

Admission Requirements

To enroll, you need:

• A high school diploma or GED.
• Completion of MTH 060 Beginning Algebra or meeting the Math Level 10 placement.
• Completion of or current enrollment in MFG 100 Manufacturing Technology Orientation.
• College-level computer skills.

Costs and Time Commitment

Expect to spend about $250 on personal protective equipment and tools. Additional enrollment fees for specific MFG courses will hover around $600. The program often demands around 24 hours per week in the welding lab, which operates Monday through Thursday from 9 am to 8 pm.

Learning Outcomes

Key skills you’ll gain include:

• Industry Safety Standards: Model and implement safety precautions.
• Advanced Welder Qualification: Pass the American Welding Society Advanced Welder qualification written test.
• Practical Skills: Perform skills needed for qualification tests.
• Inspection Criteria: Apply inspection and testing acceptance criteria at an advanced level.

Completion Requirements

You must maintain a 2.0 GPA and complete all courses with a grade of C or higher to earn your COCC certificate.

Welding Career Now – Welding Certificate Training Classes

Welding Career Now provides welding certificate training classes and welding technology associate degree programs in Bend, OR.

Key Program Highlights

• Modern Equipment Training: Learn to use and maintain state-of-the-art welding equipment.
• Blueprint Reading: Gain skills in reading blueprints and determining project scopes.
• Financial Aid: Available for qualifying students, easing financial burdens.

Practical Skills Focus

One significant advantage here is the emphasis on acquiring practical skills through hands-on training. Although details about the program’s hours and prices aren’t specified online, you can contact the school directly for essential information. The comprehensive training covers fundamental welding techniques, ensuring you develop substantial real-world skills.

DIYcave Makerspace – Welding Certification Program

DIYcave Makerspace in Bend, OR offers a communal shop for a variety of enthusiasts, including aspiring welders. They provide various classes, workshops, and private instruction.

Features of the Program

• Safety Certification: Required before using high-risk tools.
• Flexible Membership Options: Provides adaptability to fit various schedules.
• Comprehensive Facilities: Space includes maker/artist studios, classroom spaces, and larger project services.
• Knowledgeable Staff: Operated by experienced volunteers and instructors.

Practical Learning Experience

DIYcave is ideal if you’re looking to gain practical skills in a supportive and vibrant community environment. The focus is on both individual learning and collaborative projects, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

Big Bend Community College – Welding Technology

Big Bend Community College in Moses Lake, WA, presents a comprehensive Welding Technology program designed to prepare you for careers in welding and fabrication industries.

Program Offerings

• Qualifications: Option for a two-year Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree or a one-year Welding Certificate of Achievement.
• Welding Processes: Trainings in thermal cutting, gas metal arc welding, gas tungsten arc welding, and more.
• Technical Drawing Interpretation: Interesting inclusion of welding layout in the curriculum.

Unique Opportunities

The program offers specialization in structural welding, industrial production welding, or pipe welding, which broadens your employment possibilities. Industry connections through job shadows, tours, internships, and career services increase your career readiness post-graduation.

Costs and Commitments

While tuition and fees can vary, Big Bend provides personalized advisement to assist with financial details.

Texas State Technical College – Welding Technology Program

Texas State Technical College (TSTC) offers a detailed Welding Technology program with multiple campuses across Texas, including Abilene, East Williamson County, Fort Bend County, Harlingen, Marshall, and Waco.

Program Benefits

• Multiple Campuses: Provides flexibility in location.
• Advanced Training: Covers blueprint reading, SMAW, GTAW welding, and more.
• Variety of Program Durations: Offers both Associate of Applied Science degrees and shorter certification programs.
• Cutting-Edge Equipment: Uses industry-standard machinery.
• Money-Back Guarantee: Reflects the institution’s commitment to high-quality education.

Financial Considerations

Program durations range from 12 to 16 months, with costs estimated between $11,666 to $18,420. TSTC also offers one-on-one training for personalized instruction and lifetime career counseling and job placement assistance, ensuring a high return on your educational investment.

Coastal Bend College – Welding Program

The Coastal Bend College Welding Program offers you an extensive curriculum emphasizing key techniques like:

• Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)
• Oxy-Acetylene Welding (OAW)
• Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW)
• Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW)

Curriculum and Training

Students get hands-on experience paired with courses in:

• Shop Math
• Welding Theory
• Drafting
• Properties of Various Metals

There’s also the opportunity for high school students to articulate their coursework into college credit, giving them a valuable head start.

Degrees and Certifications

You can pursue an Associate of Applied Science Degree or a Level I certificate. Completion requires you to pass a capstone project, integrating all learned skills into a final presentation.

Inclusivity and Support

Coastal Bend College promotes an inclusive learning environment, ensuring non-discrimination based on race, creed, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability.

Enrollment and Costs

Specific program hours and prices aren’t detailed online, but contacting the program directly will provide the most accurate information.

Each of these options in Bend, OR, offers robust training and opportunities to kickstart your welding career, whether you’re seeking hands-on experience, specialized certifications, or flexible learning environments.

Abtrex Industries School of Welding – Welding Classes

Abtrex Industries School of Welding in South Bend, IN, offers welding classes tailored to provide in-depth, hands-on training. With small class sizes, the school ensures personalized instruction, helping students develop practical skills effectively.

Class Options

• Seven Classes: These include shielded metal arc welding, gas metal arc (MIG) welding, and gas tungsten arc (TIG) welding.
• Eight-Week Duration: Each class runs for eight weeks, with 80 clock hours of training.
• Comprehensive Fees: The cost comprises books, welding equipment, and safety gear.

Teaching Approach

• Hands-On Training: Students gain real-life experience by practicing in the fabrication shop.
• Individual Attention: Limited class sizes ensure focused instruction.
• Certification: Upon completing the courses, students receive certifications recognized by industry leaders.

Regulation and Quality Assurance
Abtrex adheres to standards set by the Office for Career and Technical Schools, guaranteeing high-quality education.

For those seeking in-depth and hands-on welding training with certification, Abtrex Industries School of Welding is a strong option.

South Bend Adult Education – Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) Certification Program

The South Bend Adult Education offers a twelve-week Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) certification program. This program equips students with the necessary technical skills for American Welding Society certification.

Admission Requirements

• Minimum Attendance: Participation in Adult Education classes is required.
• TABE Test: Achieving NRS Level 3 in Reading and Math is mandatory.
• Online Soft Skills Course: Completion of the WIN Online Essential Soft Skills Courseware.

Curriculum Details

• Blueprint Reading: Learn how to interpret fabrication blueprints and sketches.
• Dimension Calculation: Gain skills in computing dimensions for welding projects.
• Hands-On Training: Practical welding in various positions under professional guidance.
• Equipment Maintenance: Training includes monitoring techniques and maintaining welding equipment.

Certification and Cost

• AWS Certification: This credential boosts job opportunities.
• Scholarships: Funding can reduce the $3000 certification cost for qualifying students.

Achieving the GMAW certification with South Bend Adult Education can pave the way to a rewarding career in welding.

Ed2Go – Welding Technician Course

For flexible and virtual learning, the Ed2Go Welding Technician Course provides a structured path into the welding world. This course leverages video-based simulation labs for an immersive experience.

Course Features

• Comprehensive Overview: Covers topics such as safety, troubleshooting, inspection methods, metallurgy, and fabrication.
• Video-Based Simulations: Five simulated labs on fire safety, safety awareness in manufacturing, gas metal arc welding, and more.
• Open Enrollment: Start at your convenience with a 12-month completion window.

Flexibility and Support

• Instructor-Led Options: Provides opportunities for questions and discussions with experts.
• Non-Credit Course: Although ineligible for federal aid, vocational rehab, or workforce development boards may cover the cost in some states.

Job Readiness
The course equips you with essential skills for entry-level welding positions, making it a solid choice for flexible learning.

Explore the Ed2Go Welding Technician Course to get started on your welding career.

Oxarc – Welder Training Program

Oxarc in Bend, OR, provides a thorough Welder Training Program. Their focus on safety and high-quality facilities makes them a standout choice.

Training Facilities

• State-of-the-Art Training Center: Facilities include virtual tours and advanced welding equipment.
• Safety Emphasis: Includes industrial safety services, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and comprehensive safety products.
• Mobile Training: Confined space safety and mobile training trailers offer added convenience.

Comprehensive Training
Oxarc provides industrial, medical, and specialty gases along with fire equipment and CO2 beverage systems, ensuring a well-rounded training environment. Prospective students should reach out directly for specific program hours and pricing.

For those prioritizing safety and professional instruction, Oxarc delivers excellent training opportunities.

How to Choose the Right Welding School in Bend OR

Choosing the right welding school in Bend, OR, requires a careful evaluation of several factors to ensure you receive high-quality education and achieve your career goals.

1. Accreditation: Ensure the school meets industry standards.
2. Hands-On Training: Look for programs that provide practical experience.
3. Financial Aid: Investigate available financial support to ease the cost burden.
4. Instructor Expertise: Qualified professionals ensure better learning outcomes.
5. Class Size: Smaller classes often mean more personalized instruction.
6. Flexible Scheduling: If working or managing other commitments, look for flexible options.
7. Facilities Quality: Modern, industry-standard tools enhance learning.
8. Industry Connections: Schools with internships and job placements boost career readiness.
9. Cost and Duration: Match the program’s length and expense with your budget and goals.

These tips will help ensure your decision aligns with your educational and career aspirations.

Final Thoughts on Welding Schools in Bend OR

Choosing the right welder school in Bend, OR is pivotal in launching a successful career. This guide has provided insights into several local programs and general tips for selecting the best school for your needs. Whether you prioritize hands-on training, financial aid, or flexible scheduling, thoughtful consideration of these factors will lead you to the right educational path.

By exploring your options and utilizing these tips, you’re well on your way to becoming a skilled welder equipped for the industry’s demands.