Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Welder Schools in Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile, Montgomery, and Tuscaloosa.
Want to become a welder in Alabama but unsure where to start?
This guide covers the top welder schools in Alabama, complete with details on their programs, certifications, and hands-on training opportunities.
Discover how these institutions can help you gain the skills and qualifications needed for a successful welding career.
Jefferson State Community College – Fast Track Welding Class
Searching for a rapid route into the welding industry? The Fast Track Welding Class at Jefferson State Community College could be your answer. This program is designed to meet the increasing demand for skilled welders, projected by the American Welding Society.
What makes this course stand out?
- Cost-effective: The registration fee is just $899.
- Flexible registration: Options include both online registration and walk-in registration at their Jefferson and Shelby-Hoover campuses.
- Hands-on training: Emphasis on real-world applications to ensure you gain practical experience.
The course curriculum includes:
- Welding and cutting processes: Learn about oxy-fuel welding and cutting, shielded metal arc welding.
- Equipment and tools: Understand power sources, welding electrodes, and relevant gases.
- Safety: Detailed coverage of safety precautions and procedures.
- Quality control: Insight into welding inspection and procedures.
You will also receive a Certificate of Completion from the college, boosting your qualifications for the job market. Course schedules and other details are updated regularly on their website.
Fortis College Birmingham – Welding Technology Program
The Welding Technology program at Fortis College Birmingham offers a solid foundation for students aiming to enter welding careers across various industries. Experienced instructors guide you through essential subjects to help you become a top-notch welder.
Key highlights include:
- Comprehensive curriculum: Covers welding print reading, welding symbols, and both destructive and non-destructive testing.
- Career readiness: Prepares you for roles as industrial welders, welding apprentices, or check welders.
- Industry alignment: Instruction in industrial welding applications and welding mathematics.
- Experienced faculty: Learn from knowledgeable instructors with industry experience.
- Modern facilities: Benefit from hands-on training in state-of-the-art labs.
Upon completion, you’ll have the skills needed for careers in manufacturing, construction, and high-tech sectors. For tuition information and other details, visit their website.
Weld South – Professional Welder Program
If you’re located near Hoover, Alabama, the Professional Welder Program at Weld South offers a practical path to welding certification. This six-month course focuses on high-demand welding processes and provides extensive hands-on training.
Program features include:
- Diverse welding techniques: Training in SMAW/Stick, GTAW/TIG, GMAW/MIG, and FCAW/Dual Shield.
- Cutting-edge instruction: Techniques in OxyFuel and Plasma arc cutting.
- Specialized training: Courses in pipe welding and structural steel.
- Certifications: Earn valuable industry-standard certifications after passing a welder performance qualification test.
- Job placement: Assistance in securing welding positions through an extensive placement program.
Additionally, Weld South employs Lincoln Electric’s U/LINC curriculum and is a member of the Lincoln Electric Education Partner Schools. This ensures you receive quality education tailored to industry standards. For more details, check their website.
AIDT Maritime Training Center – NCCER Structural Fitting & Welding
The AIDT Maritime Training Center offers NCCER Structural Fitting & Welding courses aimed at preparing you for maritime and industrial welding careers. Remarkably, these courses are free, making them accessible for many.
Course specifics include:
- Welding techniques: Learn SMAW, GTAW, and base metal preparation.
- Inspecting skills: Training in weld quality inspection and fitting/inspection procedures.
- Flexible schedules: Both day and night classes are available for your convenience.
- Extra courses: Includes computer-aided drafting and safety.
As an Accredited Training Sponsor, the AIDT ensures that its courses meet industry standards, giving you a competitive edge in the job market. Enrollment is open, and you can find more information on their website.
Shelton State Community College – Welding Technology Program
Shelton State Community College offers a comprehensive Welding Technology program, providing various degree and certificate options. The Welding Technology program at Shelton State is designed to prepare you for the future demands of the welding industry.
Program insights:
- Diverse learning paths: Options include an Associate in Applied Science (AAS), certificate, and short-term certificate.
- Practical skills: Courses cover welding quality, pipe fabrication, blueprint reading, and welding codes.
- Completion timelines: Full-time students typically finish in three to four semesters, while part-time students may take up to six semesters.
- Qualified instructors: Faculty includes certified American Welding Society instructors.
- Growing demand: The welding industry is expected to need 330,000 new professionals by 2028.
This program’s blend of lecture and hands-on practice ensures you’re well-prepared for a welding career. For more details, visit their website.
Calhoun Community College – Welding Technology Program
The Welding Technology program at Calhoun Community College provides varied educational options, supported by strong industry endorsements. The program covers multiple welding techniques and essential skills, preparing you for a competitive job market.
Program details include:
- Accredited training: Endorsed by the National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3) and Lincoln Electric Education Partner School (LEEPS).
- Technique diversity: Learn FCAW, GTAW, GMAW, SMAW, and PAC welding.
- Skill breadth: Training in blueprint reading, welding inspection, and robotic welding.
- Career opportunities: Prepares you for roles in manufacturing, industry, and construction.
- Earning potential: Base salaries range from $30,770 to $56,000 annually, with higher earnings for experienced welders.
For comprehensive program information, including tuition and course schedules, consult their website.
Coastal Alabama Community College – Welding and Career Technology Program
If you’re looking to become proficient in pipe welding, the Welding and Career Technology program at Coastal Alabama Community College offers a targeted two-semester short-term certificate. This program focuses on both theoretical understanding and practical application, essential for a well-rounded welding education.
Program Highlights:
- Industrial Blueprint Reading: Learn to interpret technical drawings, which is crucial for precise welding.
- Gas Metal Arc/Flux Cored Arc Welding: Gain expertise in these common, but critical, welding techniques.
- Shielded Metal Arc Welding Groove: Master the fundamentals of groove welding, an essential skill for pipe welding.
Courses are accessible across multiple campuses, including Fairhope Airport, Atmore, Monroeville, and Thomasville. Direct contact with the institution is necessary to confirm program hours and fees. Access detailed program information on their website.
Wallace State Community College – Welding Program
At Wallace State Community College, their award-winning Welding program offers extensive educational opportunities. You can earn associate degrees in Welding—and even specialize in Robotic Welding. Certificate options are also available to match your specific career goals.
Program Features:
- High Job Placement Rate: This program’s success is demonstrated by its impressive job placement record.
- Variety of Specializations: Options include dual enrollment and scholarship opportunities specifically for TIG welding classes.
- Hands-on Training: Participate in events like the North Alabama High School Welding Competition to enhance your skills.
Wallace State’s Welding program is designed for those who are serious about entering the field immediately after completing their studies. More details on the program and its specific events can be found on their website.
Bevill State Community College – Welding Technology
Bevill State Community College provides a versatile Welding Technology program offering both long-term and short-term certificate options. The curriculum covers essential welding techniques and the properties of various metals, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the workforce.
Why Choose Bevill State:
- High Employment Placement Rate: More than 80% of graduates find employment shortly after completing the program.
- Earning Potential: Graduates can expect to earn up to $45,000 annually.
- Variety of Certifications: Cater to different career goals and timelines with both long-term and short-term certificate options.
To learn more about the Bevill State Welding Technology program, visit their website.
Welding Career Now – Welding Certificate Training Classes
If you are in Mobile, AL, Welding Career Now offers welding certificate training classes as well as welding technology associate degree programs. This program ensures that you are prepared for various welding jobs, reinforcing your ability to succeed in the field.
Program Benefits:
- Modern Welding Equipment: Learn to use state-of-the-art tools and technology.
- Blueprint Reading: Gain skills in interpreting and creating technical drawings.
- Project Scope Determination: Understand how to plan and execute welding projects efficiently.
Graduates can pursue a range of careers, including welding technicians, pipe welders, structural welders, underwater welders, welding engineers, and inspectors. For detailed information on hours and tuition, it is recommended to contact the institution directly. More details available on their website.
Central Alabama Community College – Welding Associate Program
For a comprehensive welding education, consider the Welding Associate Program at Central Alabama Community College. The program offers an in-depth curriculum that covers various welding techniques, safety protocols, and industry standards.
Key Program Elements:
- Hands-on Training: State-of-the-art welding labs provide practical experience.
- Industry Certifications: Preparation for certifications such as AWS.
- Flexible Schedules: Daytime and evening classes are available for both full-time and part-time students.
- Career Services: Assistance with job placement ensures you find suitable employment post-graduation.
This program typically takes two years to complete, giving you a solid foundation for a career in welding. Detailed program information is available on their website.
What to Consider When Choosing a Welding School in Alabama
When choosing a welding school in Alabama, it’s essential to consider various factors to ensure it meets your educational and career needs. Here are the key points to keep in mind:
- Accreditation: Ensure the institution is accredited, which signifies that it meets high educational standards.
- Hands-on Training: Investigate the facilities and equipment available to guarantee that you will receive practical, real-world experience.
- Program Duration: Check whether the program length aligns with your career goals, whether you need a quick certificate or a comprehensive degree.
- Job Placement Rates: High job placement rates are a good indicator of a program’s effectiveness. Schools with robust career services can significantly aid your job search.
- Financial Considerations: Evaluate tuition costs, availability of financial aid, and potential scholarships. Budgeting is crucial for long-term success.
- Industry Partnerships: Schools with direct industry ties can offer internships, apprenticeships, and immediate job placements.
Given these factors, weigh your options carefully to select a welding school that aligns with your career ambitions.
Welder Schools By State
Conclusion
Embarking on a career in welding is a promising decision, especially with the abundant educational opportunities available in Alabama. Whether you’re aiming for a short-term certificate or an associate degree, the right welder school will equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in this rewarding field. Explore these highlighted programs and take a confident step forward in your welding career.
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