Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Welder Schools in Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Jonesboro, Little Rock, and Springdale.
Thinking about a career in welding?
This article highlights the top welder schools in Arkansas, giving you a clear path to jumpstart your welding career.
We’ll cover the best programs, certifications, and what makes each school unique.
By the end, you’ll know exactly which Arkansas welding school could be the perfect fit for your future.
University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College – Welding Technical Certificate Program
The University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College offers a Welding Technical Certificate Program designed to equip you with essential welding skills. This two-semester program is straightforward but thorough, making it ideal if you’re aiming for a career in welding.
First Semester:
- Welding I: Learn the theoretical underpinnings of welding.
- SMAW Welding: Gain hands-on experience in Shielded Metal Arc Welding.
- Oxy-fuel Cutting and Plasma Arc Cutting: Master these critical cutting techniques.
- AWS Vertical Certification: Work towards the American Welding Society vertical certification in SMAW welding.
Second Semester:
You can choose one of the below options based on your career goals:
- Advanced SMAW, FCAW, and GTAW Classes: For in-depth expertise.
- Approved Electives: To tailor the program to your interests.
Additionally, if you seek a shorter path, the Certificate of Proficiency in Welding can be completed in just one semester.
Key Advantages:
- Access to a Metal Testing Lab: This includes destructive and non-destructive testing through radiography.
- Strong Industry Connections: Local welding companies are closely tied with the program, boosting job prospects.
- Support Services: Benefit from academic advising and financial aid options to ease your educational journey.
Interested? Learn more about the University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College.
Welding Academy of South Arkansas – Professional Welding School Program
The Welding Academy of South Arkansas offers a Professional Welding School Program that spans nine months. This intensive, lab-based program is tailor-made for those aiming for immediate employment in welding.
Curriculum Highlights:
- MIG and Flux-core Wire Welding:
- SMAW (Stick Welding):
- GTAW (TIG Welding): Training includes work with materials like stainless steel and aluminum.
- Flexible Formats: Choose from day or evening classes to fit your lifestyle.
Financial and Career Support:
- AWS Certified Instructors: Ensuring high-quality training.
- Financial Aid: Scholarships and loans available.
- Job Placement Facilities: Expect to earn competitive wages, ranging from $25 to over $45 per hour.
Set your welding career in motion at Welding Academy of South Arkansas.
Southeast Arkansas College – Welding Technology Program
The Southeast Arkansas College offers a Welding Technology Program geared towards those seeking entry-level positions in the industrial and manufacturing sectors.
Flexible Learning:
- Class Schedule: Tailored to accommodate various needs.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Includes basic welding, Arc welding, MIG, TIG, and Pipe Welding or Welding Layout.
- AWS Certification: Enhanced employability through American Welding Society certifications.
Safety Focus:
Safety is paramount, with an emphasis on maintaining a secure working environment. Given the welding field’s expected 9% growth rate from 2016 to 2026, you’ll be well-positioned for job opportunities.
Specialized Certifications:
- TIG Welding Certification
- MIG Welding Certification
These dedicated certifications will further bolster your credentials.
Learn more about why the Southeast Arkansas College could be the perfect fit for your welding education.
Arkansas State University – Newport Welding Program
The Arkansas State University – Newport provides a multifaceted Welding Program ideal for those pursuing entry-level roles in the welding industry.
Training Scope:
- Welding Processes: Includes SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, and GTAW techniques.
- Additional Skills: Incorporates oxy-fuel and plasma arc cutting, blueprint reading, and fabrication.
Advanced Training:
- CNC Plasma Cutting and Robotic Welding: Offered as advanced options.
- Credential Options: Choose between a technical certificate and a certificate of proficiency.
Financial Considerations:
- Financial Aid: Multiple options to make education affordable.
- Specific Tuition Details: Available on the university’s website.
Prepare for a successful welding career with the Arkansas State University – Newport.
The Academy at Goodwill – Welding Certification Program
If you have some welding experience and seek specialized skills, The Academy at Goodwill offers a Welding Certification Program designed to elevate your expertise.
Program Features:
- Flexible Learning: Available both online and in-person with convenient morning or afternoon sessions.
- Comprehensive Package: Includes curriculum, books, instruction, lab equipment access, and certification in SMAW and FCAW welding.
- Welder Kit: Provided upon course completion.
Financial Support:
- Payment Plans and Financial Aid: Available to help manage costs.
Check out if The Academy at Goodwill is the right choice for your career upgrade.
Arkansas Tech University – Ozark Welding Technology
The Arkansas Tech University – Ozark offers a detailed Welding Technology Program that covers a range of techniques and practices.
Key Learning Areas:
- Welding Techniques: Includes SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, and plasma cutting.
- Safety and Preparation: Focus on joint preparation, metallurgy, blueprint reading, and layout techniques.
- Advanced Technology: Hands-on experience with advanced tools such as CNC plasma tables.
Certification:
- AWS Entry Level Welding Certification Exam: Required before program completion.
Other Benefits:
- Experienced Faculty: Leverage industry expertise.
- Alumni Network: Robust support for career advancement.
Explore the opportunities at Arkansas Tech University – Ozark.
National Park College – Welding Technology Program
The National Park College in Hot Springs provides a robust Welding Technology Program that prepares students for specialized positions in metal fabrication, metallurgy, and more.
Program Essentials:
- Industrial Training: Hands-on assignments with real-life problem-solving scenarios.
- Accreditation: Recognized by the Higher Learning Commission.
Support Services:
- Nationally Recognized Certifications: Boost your employability.
- Student Services: Financial aid and other support systems to aid your education.
Discover more about what the National Park College has to offer for aspiring welders.
North Arkansas College – Welding Technology Program
North Arkansas College offers a Welding Technology Program that provides an all-encompassing training experience.
Curriculum Highlights:
- Comprehensive Training: In areas like SMAW, TIG, oxy-acetylene, and plasma cutting.
- Safety Practices: Emphasis on the safe use of materials and tools.
Certifications:
- AWS Certifications: Critical for career advancement.
Program Benefits:
- Hands-on Experience: Access to Northark’s state-of-the-art welding shop.
- Affordable Tuition: Utilize options like the Arkansas Future Grant.
- Stackable and Transfer Options: Enhance your educational qualifications further.
Consider your welding career pathway with North Arkansas College.
By examining these distinguished welder schools in Arkansas, you are taking the first step toward a fulfilling and lucrative welding career. Choose the institution that best aligns with your career goals and financial needs, and start your journey today.
University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton – Welding Technology Program
The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton offers a Welding Technology Program that promises comprehensive training across various welding techniques and safety protocols.
Program Highlights:
- Safety Training: Learn the essentials of maintaining a safe work environment.
- Welding Techniques: Includes SMAW, GMAW, TIG, and advanced welding.
- Blueprint Reading: Develop skills for accurate and efficient work.
- AWS Standards: Training and evaluations are based on American Welding Society D1.1 standards.
Certification Options:
- Certificate of Proficiency: Complete basic training in a shorter period.
- Technical Certificate: Gain an intermediate level of expertise.
- Associate of Applied Science Degree: For those seeking a thorough educational experience.
Additional Benefits:
- Certifications: Obtain OSHA 10 and CPR for added employability.
- Experienced Instructors: Learn from knowledgeable industry veterans.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Financial aid to ensure accessibility.
If you are eager to enroll, please explore the offerings at the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton.
East Arkansas Community College – Technical Certificate in Welding
East Arkansas Community College offers a Technical Certificate in Welding designed to prepare you for various industrial welding roles.
Educational Experience:
- Hands-On Training: Techniques include flat, vertical, and overhead welding.
- Tool Operation: Learn the use of regular welding tools.
- AWS Credentials: Important for career readiness.
Program Options:
- Technical Certificate: Requires 33 credits for completion.
- Certificate of Proficiency: A quicker option requiring 9 credits.
Cost Efficiency:
- In-County Tuition: Affordable at about $3,442 for the complete program.
Ready for more details? Visit East Arkansas Community College.
Northwest Technical Institute – Welding Technology
The Northwest Technical Institute in Springdale provides a Welding Technology Program that emphasizes practical skills through extensive hands-on training.
Curriculum Breakdown:
- Welding Techniques: Includes SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, oxy-fuel, and plasma cutting.
- Classroom Instruction: Complements the practical lab assignments.
- Safety Procedures: Essential protocols for a secure work environment.
Financial Information:
- Program Cost: Approximately $7,095 for the complete course.
- Value for Money: High return on investment given the comprehensive training.
Check out the training program at Northwest Technical Institute.
University of Arkansas – Fort Smith Welding Technology Program
The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith offers an acclaimed Welding Technology Program.
Education Approach:
- Skill Development: From layout and blueprint reading to various welding processes.
- Industry Preparation: Prepares students for immediate industry employment.
- Specialized Curricula: Programs include Arc Welding, MIG Welding, and TIG Welding.
Support Services:
- Job Placement: Excellent job support services.
- Modern Facilities: State-of-the-art welding equipment and facilities.
Learn more by visiting University of Arkansas – Fort Smith.
American Welding Laboratories – Welding Program
The American Welding Laboratories (AWL) in Fort Smith offer focused training programs for both beginners and experienced welders.
Key Training Areas:
- Hands-On Training: Experience in SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, and GTAW.
- Modern Facilities: Cutting-edge equipment for superior learning.
- Certified Instructors: Industry-experienced professionals guide the training.
Financial Assistance:
- Various Options: Includes scholarships and financial aid programs.
Explore what American Welding Laboratories has to offer.
Arkansas State University Mountain Home – Welding Technology Program
The Arkansas State University Mountain Home provides an in-depth Welding Technology Program.
Course Framework:
- Welding Training: In SMAW, GMAW, and GTAW.
- Complementary Skills: Includes metallurgy, blueprint reading, and CAD.
- Hands-On Learning: Job readiness emphasized through practical training.
Affordability:
- Tuition Rates: $109 per credit hour.
- Stackable Credentials: Build your qualifications over time.
Visit Arkansas State University Mountain Home to learn more.
Choosing the Best Welding School in Arkansas
When selecting the ideal welding school in Arkansas, several factors can make or break your decision. Here are key considerations:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by reputable bodies.
- Curriculum: Look for comprehensive content covering both theoretical and practical aspects.
- Hands-On Training: Practical welding experience is invaluable.
- Certifications: Seek programs that prepare you for AWS or other industry-recognized certifications.
- Job Placement Rates: Higher rates can indicate stronger industry connections.
- Faculty Experience: Experienced instructors can provide better training.
- Facilities: Modern and well-equipped labs enhance learning.
- Financial Aid: Evaluate the availability of scholarships and financial aid to offset costs.
- Industry Connections: Programs with strong ties to employers often offer better job opportunities.
- Support Services: Additional services like career counseling can provide tremendous value.
Making the informed choice requires considering these factors carefully, tailoring the decision to suit both your educational needs and career aspirations.
Welder Schools By State
Summarizing Your Welding Education Journey
Embarking on a welding career requires the right education. With this guide, you’ve explored a variety of top welder schools in Arkansas, each offering unique benefits catered to different needs. From comprehensive training and practical experience to certification opportunities and financial aid, your perfect welding program awaits. Take the next step and enroll in a program that aligns with your career goals. Your future in welding is shining brightly.