Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Welder Schools in Rapid City and Sioux Falls
Looking to jump-start your welding career? Choosing the right school is crucial. This guide spotlights the top welder schools in South Dakota, helping you find the perfect fit.
Explore programs offering hands-on training, industry certifications, and high job placement rates.
Ready to get started? Let’s find the best welder school for you.
Southeast Technical College – Welding Program
Southeast Technical College in Sioux Falls offers a strong welding program accredited by the American Welding Society (AWS). Here, you’ll gain proficiency in both ferrous and non-ferrous materials.
Key Program Features:
- Variety of Techniques: You’ll learn flux core arc welding, shielded metal arc welding, gas metal arc welding, gas tungsten arc welding, and plasma arc cutting.
- Certification: The program offers an opportunity to take the AWS welding certification test.
- Strong Job Placement: Southeast Tech boasts a 100% job placement rate among its 2022 graduates.
Financial Aid:
The college supports students through financial aid options, including the full-ride Build Dakota scholarship.
Industry Collaboration:
Engaging closely with industry partners, Southeast Tech lets you gain real-world experience. The Ed Wood Trade and Industry Center is where classroom learning meets hands-on training.
With detailed training and solid industry connections, Southeast Technical College equips you with the skills needed for a lasting welding career. Discover more about this esteemed program on the Southeast Technical College website.
Western Dakota Technical College – Welding and Fabrication Program
The Welding and Fabrication program at Western Dakota Technical College prepares you as an entry-level technician for various industrial sectors like construction, energy, manufacturing, and repair. This 66-credit hour program spans 18 months, offering comprehensive training.
Program Options:
- Diploma Option: A nine-month course focusing on basic welding and fabricating skills.
- Associate Degree: A 20-month program including both basic and advanced training.
Financial Assistance:
Western Dakota Technical College administers Title IV Financial Assistance and offers the Build Dakota Scholarship to cover tuition and fees.
Facilities and Support:
- Partnerships for Housing: The college partners with a Rapid City VRBO to offer limited apartments for full-time students.
- Job Opportunities: Graduates fill essential roles in welding and fabrication industries.
The program’s flexibility and financial aid support make it a valuable option for aspiring welders. Visit the Western Dakota Technical College website for more information.
Southeast Technical College – Welding Certificate Program
The Welding Certificate program at Southeast Technical College offers essential skills for joining metal parts through heat fusion. This program emphasizes training in ferrous and non-ferrous materials.
Program Structure:
- Introduction to Welding – Gas Metal Arc Welding (WLD 100): A basic course that lasts 4 to 12 weeks.
- Shielded Metal Arc Welding (WLD 103): Focuses on additional techniques for various positions and joint designs.
- Intermediate Welding – Flux Core Welding (WLD 120): Advances your skills in more complex welding scenarios.
Each course offers a certificate upon completion, and together, they prepare you for AWS welding certification.
Financials:
- Cost: The program is priced at $255 per credit hour plus fees.
- No Federal Aid: However, other financial aid options might be available.
Additional Information:
- Safety Test: Required before continuing in the program.
- Uniforms and Tools: Students must purchase their own.
The Welding Certificate program provides hands-on training and specialty certifications. Immerse yourself in this practical program on the Southeast Technical College website.
Mitchell Technical College – Progressive Welding Technology Program
Mitchell Technical College’s Progressive Welding Technology Program ensures you gain the skills and knowledge required for the manufacturing industry. This program aligns with American Welding Society (AWS) standards, allowing you to take qualification tests to meet employer needs.
Key Elements:
- Modern Labs: Equipped with gas metal arc welding for both steel and aluminum, robotic welding, and advanced cutting technologies like laser and plasma.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers welding safety, metallurgy, blueprint reading, welding economics, and more.
- Certification Opportunities: Graduates can become certified in various welding processes.
- Flexible Program Options: Choose a one-year diploma or a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree.
Additional Requirements:
- Technology: Students need specific laptops from Mitchell Tech to ensure compatibility and support.
- Costs: Tuition and fees total around $4,000, excluding laptops, software, books, and tools. Scholarships are available for eligible students.
This program blends technical expertise with practical skills to prepare you for a successful welding career. For more details, visit the Mitchell Technical College website.
Lake Area Technical College – Welding Technology Program
Lake Area Technical College offers a robust Welding Technology Program designed to prepare you for a versatile career in welding. The program features a spacious welding facility that meets OSHA standards for safety.
Program Highlights:
- Extensive Workshop: Gain hands-on experience with pipe welding, air carbon arc cutting, SMAW & GMAW welding, and more.
- Robotic Welding: Learn to operate automated welding equipment.
- Certification: Graduates are eligible for American Welding Society Certification Guided Bend Test on 3/8 inch steel.
- Metal Forming and Cutting: Training includes CNC plasma cutting, tube and pipe bending, and other metal-forming techniques.
Flexible Degree Options:
- Diploma (9 months)
- Associate of Applied Science Degree (18 months)
- Specialized Options: Marketing & Management or Precision Machining.
With a focus on practical training and industry certification, Lake Area Technical College equips you with cutting-edge skills. Learn more about their programs at the Lake Area Technical College website.
Choosing the Right Welding School in South Dakota
Selecting the right welding school in South Dakota involves careful consideration of several factors to ensure you receive the best education and training.
- Accreditation:
- Curriculum:
- Faculty Expertise:
- Industry Partnerships:
- Job Placement Rate:
- Financial Aid:
- Facilities and Resources:
- Location and Logistics:
Choosing wisely based on these criteria will set you on the path to a successful welding career.
Welder Schools By State
Summing Up the Top Welder Schools in South Dakota
Welder schools in South Dakota offer numerous opportunities with hands-on training, industry-recognized certifications, and high job placement rates. By exploring the programs at Southeast Technical College, Western Dakota Technical College, Mitchell Technical College, and Lake Area Technical College, you have various paths to choose from to meet your career goals.
Evaluate your specific needs and choose the best-fit program. Each institution’s website has comprehensive details on curricula, admissions, and financial aid. Your journey towards a successful welding career begins with these esteemed schools.