Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Welder Schools in Kansas City, Lawrence, Olathe, Overland Park, Topeka, and Wichita.
Looking to kickstart a career in welding? Choosing the right school is crucial.
This guide on Welder Schools in Kansas highlights the top programs available, offering hands-on training from certified instructors.
Whether you’re a high school graduate or considering a career change, these Kansas schools provide the skills and certifications needed to succeed in the welding industry.
Heartland Welding Academy – Welding Programs
Heartland Welding Academy in Wichita provides a focused education for aspiring welders. Established by industry veterans, this school specializes in practical, hands-on training.
Key Features:
- Hands-On Training: The program offers 90% hands-on practice to ensure students develop their welding techniques in real-world scenarios. Methods covered include TIG, MIG, Flux Core, and Stick welding.
- Efficient Certification: This program is designed to streamline the path to certification. Students focus on essential skills without unnecessary general education classes.
- Experienced Instructors: The faculty includes professionals with backgrounds in petrochemical, power, and manufacturing industries ensuring high-quality education.
- High Success Rates: Graduates find careers in diverse fields such as nuclear and non-nuclear power, petrochemical, oil & gas, semiconductor, aerospace, and manufacturing.
- Financial Aid: Qualifying students can access financial support to assist with tuition and other expenses.
- Ongoing Support: Alumni receive continued job placement services and professional development resources.
This unique approach makes Heartland Welding Academy a top choice for those serious about pursuing a welding career. Learn more at Heartland Welding Academy.
NCK Tech – Welding Program
NCK Tech’s Welding Program stands out with its strong emphasis on both theory and practical training. Available at campuses in Beloit and Hays, it offers comprehensive preparation for a range of welding careers.
Key Features:
- Diverse Techniques: Students learn SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW, oxy-fuel welding/cutting, and carbon arc and plasma cutting/gouging.
- Safety and Quality: Safety practices and quality welding techniques for carbon, stainless steel, and aluminum are stressed throughout the program.
- Certification Options: The curriculum prepares students for various certification exams, offering them a competitive edge in the job market.
- One-Year Program: This efficient program prepares students quickly, culminating in a Welding Certificate.
- Transfer Opportunities: Students can continue their education with transfer options to Fort Hays State University for degrees in Business & Industry Concentration and Career & Technical Education Concentration.
- Awards: The program has earned numerous accolades from Skills USA and Project MFG, highlighting its excellence.
Find out more about this highly-regarded program at NCK Tech’s Welding Program.
Johnson County Community College – Metal Fabrication and Welding Technology
JCCC in Overland Park offers a comprehensive welding program designed to equip students with the skills needed in the welding industry. The curriculum covers a range of welding techniques, ensuring graduates are well-prepared.
Key Features:
- Course Options: Choose between a Metal Fabrication and Welding Certificate (two semesters) and an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree (two years).
- Expert Instructors: Certified Welding Inspectors (CWI) lead the courses, bringing extensive industry experience.
- Practical Experience: Emphasis on hands-on training prepares students for certification and qualification tests.
- Affordable Education: With competitive tuition rates and various scholarships, including the Cav Guarantee Scholarship and Kansas Promise Scholarship, this program is accessible to more students.
- Holistic Learning: The curriculum includes general education, business management, and communication skills to enhance employability and career growth.
For more details, visit Johnson County Community College.
Crider’s Institute of Welding Technology – Certified Welder Training
Crider’s Institute of Welding Technology in Grain Valley, MO, provides a succinct and flexible training regimen, making it a convenient choice for various students.
Key Features:
- Flexible Scheduling: The institute offers different program lengths, including a 16-week course and a 24-week advanced pipe welding course.
- Intensive Hands-On Training: With a curriculum of 80% hands-on training, students gain substantial practical welding experience.
- Small Class Sizes: With a maximum of 12 students per class, personalized instruction is a key element.
- Experienced Instructors: Led by Stan Crider, with over 45 years of welding experience.
- Financial Support: Various tuition assistance options are available, making the program more accessible.
- Military and Career Changer Friendly: Ideal for recent high school graduates, military veterans, and those seeking a mid-career change.
Explore how you can benefit from this program at Crider’s Institute of Welding Technology.
Metropolitan Community College – Welding Program
MCC in Kansas City, Missouri, boasts robust training in their Welding Program which is designed to meet and exceed industry standards.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Students are trained in shielded metal arc welding, MIG, TIG, pipe welding, flame and plasma cutting.
- Theory and Practice: Includes blueprint interpretation, electrical fundamentals, and welding metallurgy to provide a well-rounded education.
- AWS Standards: Aligns with AWS codes and standards, preparing students for AWS Level 1 and Level 2 certifications.
- Transfer Agreements: Students can further their education thanks to strong transfer agreements with various four-year institutions.
- Job Ready Skills: Emphasis on real-world skills with considerable hands-on experience.
Find out more at MCC’s Welding Program.
Washburn Tech – Welding Program
Washburn Tech offers an extensive welding program in Topeka, Kansas. The curriculum is designed to cover essential welding techniques and safety protocols.
Key Features:
- Program Duration: The two-semester course focuses on various welding methods including SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, and GTAW.
- Certifications: Students can earn AWS 1F, 1G, 2F certifications and OSHA-10 credentials.
- Flexible Learning: Available for high school students and adult learners, catering to different schedules.
- Continued Education: Students have the opportunity to advance their studies at Washburn University.
- Financial Aid: Various financial support options are available to help cover tuition and other expenses.
- Holistic Training: Formal and self-paced instructions include quality control, print reading, workplace skills, and safety training.
For more information, contact Washburn Tech’s admissions office or visit Washburn Tech’s Welding Program.
Manhattan Area Technical College – Associate of Applied Science Degree in Welding Technology
At Manhattan Tech, students can pursue an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Welding Technology, which provides in-depth welding education and hands-on experience.
Key Features:
- Diverse Curriculum: Courses include welding techniques, fabrication processes, blueprint reading, welding inspection, and metallurgy.
- Program Options: Students can choose from Associate of Applied Science degrees to Certificate programs A and B, catering to different career stages.
- Industry Alignment: The curriculum aligns with the Kansas Board of Regents, ensuring relevance to industry needs.
- Flexible Credit Hours: Credits range from 21 to 63, allowing students to customize their learning to fit their career objectives.
- Support Services: Offers academic advising, library access, and student support services to ensure a comprehensive educational experience.
Discover how Manhattan Tech can help build your career by visiting Manhattan Area Technical College.
By considering these welder schools in Kansas, you can find the best fit for your career aspirations in the welding industry. Each institution offers unique strengths to help you achieve your goals.
Northwest Kansas Technical College – Welding Program
Northwest Kansas Technical College offers a robust Welding Program designed to prepare students for a career in the welding industry. The program focuses on practical, work-based experiences, combining in-shop training with real-world job site skills.
Key Features:
- Hands-On Training: Emphasizes practical experience in arc welding, TIG welding, MIG welding, and oxyacetylene welding.
- Tech-Driven Curriculum: Updated to reflect the latest industry technologies and techniques.
- Comprehensive Skill Development: Covers blueprint reading, job layout, shop math, and advanced pipe welding.
- Flexible Program Options: Includes an Associate of Applied Science, Technical Certificate C (two semesters), and Technical Certificate A (18 weeks).
- Experienced Faculty: Instructors are seasoned professionals providing quality education and mentorship.
- High Placement Rate: Graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce immediately, boasting a high job placement rate.
- Inclusivity: Maintains a non-discriminatory learning environment and provides support services.
Learn more about the program at Northwest Kansas Technical College.
WSU Tech – Welding Program
WSU Tech provides diverse welding programs with a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on lab training. Located in Wichita, Kansas, their programs are well-suited for both beginners and experienced welders.
Key Features:
- Diverse Techniques: Instruction in SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, and oxy-acetylene cutting and welding.
- Certifications: Graduates earn degrees and certificates, including Associate of Applied Science (AAS) (60 credit hours), Technical Certificate (40 hours), and Fast Track programs (18 hours).
- Safety Focused: Teaching safe welding practices to prepare students for the workplace.
- Industry Recognition: Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and recognized by the American Welding Society (AWS).
- Financial Aid: Eligible for federal financial aid, making it accessible to more students.
For additional information and walk-in advising sessions, visit WSU Tech.
Northland Career Center – Industrial Welding Program
Northland Career Center in Platte City, Missouri, offers an Industrial Welding Program focused on building foundational and advanced welding skills.
Key Features:
- Experienced Instruction: Led by Mr. Claycomb, a Certified Welding Inspector and Educator with extensive industry experience.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers safety, welding theory, metallurgy, blueprint reading, and various welding techniques.
- Credentialing: Prepares students for industry-recognized credentials such as AWS certification and OSHA 10.
- Partnerships: Partners with Metropolitan Community College and Missouri Western State University for credit transfers.
- Career Opportunities: Graduates can pursue roles in machine operation, welding, and industrial machinery mechanics with competitive salaries.
- Supportive Environment: Offers a safe, non-discriminatory learning environment.
Discover more about Northland Career Center’s program at Northland Career Center.
Fort Scott Community College – Welding Program
Fort Scott Community College offers a one-year welding certificate program designed to provide extensive hands-on training in welding technologies.
Key Features:
- Extensive Training: Focus on SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, and advanced welding techniques.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares students for industry-recognized certifications like the AWS Structural Certification D1.1.
- High School Articulation: Includes enrollment options for high school students through articulation agreements.
- Convenient Locations: Available at multiple campuses, offering flexibility in scheduling.
- Practical Experience: In-depth hands-on training courses, including Welding Safety/Osha, Basic SMAW, Basic GMAW, Advanced Welding, and Blueprint Reading.
For more detailed information, including costs and scheduling, visit Fort Scott Community College’s Welding Program.
Cowley College – Welding Technology Program
Cowley College in Arkansas City, Kansas, offers a Welding Technology Program dedicated to mixing theoretical education with hands-on practice.
Key Features:
- Technique Diversity: Structural and pipe weldments using SMAW, FCAW, TIG, and MIG processes.
- State-of-the-Art Equipment: Provides hands-on training with advanced industry-standard tools.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Includes layout, fabrication, safety protocols, and adhering to industry standards.
- Career Readiness: Prepares graduates for immediate employment in the welding industry.
- Financial Support: Offers access to financial aid and scholarships through the Admissions Representative.
Explore this program further by visiting Cowley College’s Welding Technology Program.
What to Consider When Choosing a Welder School in Kansas
Selecting the right welder school can significantly impact your career development. Here are essential factors to consider:
1. Accreditation
Ensure the school is accredited by established institutions like the Higher Learning Commission or the American Welding Society. This accreditation confirms that the school meets industry standards for excellence in education.
2. Programs Offered
Look for schools offering a variety of welding techniques such as TIG, MIG, and SMAW. The school should provide different program levels including certificates, degrees, and specialized tracks to match your career goals.
3. Facilities
The quality of facilities can enhance your learning experience. Ensure the school has modern, industry-standard equipment for practical training. Hands-on experience with current tools prepares you better for the job market.
4. Instructor Qualifications
Instructors should have significant industry experience and certifications such as Certified Welding Inspectors (CWI). Their expertise will directly influence the quality of your education and skill development.
5. Post-Graduation Support
Schools offering job placement assistance, career counseling, and maintaining strong alumni networks provide invaluable support. These services can enhance your chances of employment and career advancement.
6. Financial Aid and Scholarships
Explore the availability of financial support options, including scholarships, grants, and tuition assistance. Understanding your financial aid options helps you plan your education without undue financial stress.
Paying attention to these factors will help you make an informed decision, ensuring that your chosen institution aligns with your professional goals and educational needs.
Welder Schools By State
Conclusion: Start Your Welding Career in Kansas Today
Choosing the right welding school is crucial for paving the way to a successful career. Consider the specialized programs, experienced instructors, and hands-on training opportunities offered by top Kansas institutions. With various financial aid options and job placement assistance, now is the perfect time to start your welding education and secure a rewarding career in this essential industry.
Explore these options to find the best fit for your ambitions and start building a robust future in welding.