Waukesha County Technical College
Welding Technician

Welding Technician

Program Information

Degree Type

19-credit Technical Diploma

Program Code

30-457-1

Time to Degree

1 year

Start Date

August / January

How You'll Learn

On Campus

Program OverviewApplication DeadlinesProgram Cost

Welders fuse metal parts together to create a permanent bond. In this program, develop knowledge of print reading; learn safe handling techniques for gas cylinders, manual and machine oxy-fuel cutting, plasma cutting and air carbon arc cutting; and become introduced to gas metal arc welding/flux core arc welding techniques.

Deadlines To Know*

Fall 2024 Start

  • Application Opens: September 1, 2023
  • Application Deadline: August 5, 2024

Spring 2025 Start

  • Application Opens: April 1, 2024
  • Application Deadline: January 10, 2025

Summer 2024 Start

  • This program cannot be started in summer.

* Submit all checklist items by the application deadline. Apply early; deadlines are subject to change based on program demand.

Tuition Costs

The cost of your degree depends on a number of factors, including where you live, how your program is delivered, how long it takes to finish your program and the financial aid you receive. Explore current tuition and fees.

Additional Costs

  • Access to any computer or tablet
  • Metal Fab Tool Kit: $279
  • Safety Equipment (shoes/glasses): $100
  • Welding protective attire: $400

How To Apply

  • Apply online and pay the $30 application fee.
  • Submit a copy of one of the following to demonstrate your math skills:
      • High school GPA of 2.60 or above. Transcript must include completed coursework through the 11th grade.*
      • ACT, ACCUPLACER® or GED - 2014 Series (165 or higher).*
      • Prior college coursework may meet this requirement in whole or in part. Courses must be in the specific area(s), and you must have earned a grade of C or better (2.0 on a 4.0 scale) in the courses.*
      • If none of the above apply, sign up for the ACCUPLACER® placement test.

*Unofficial copies of these documents can be sent to admissions@wctc.edu.

Questions on the application process? Visit the Admissions page or contact an Enrollment Counselor.

Apply Online
 

Program Details

Questions? We'd love to help! Connect with our Outreach team by filling out our online form or by email at outreach@wctc.edu.

Welders work in a wide variety of industries – from automobile manufacturing, aerospace, shipbuilding and more. If you enjoy working with your hands, are mechanically inclined and put tools to practical use, a job in the welding field may be for you.

  • Welder
  • Fitter/Welder

This program is open to qualified high school applicants. Learn more >

$33,000 – $46,400 annually

Salary range estimates based on wages for related occupations in Waukesha County as reported by Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI). Individual wages may vary based on experience, industry, location and specific job requirements.

Check the WCTC Graduate Success Report to view our graduates’ entry wages.

As a program student, you are eligible to receive:

  • Financial aid loans
  • Scholarships
  • Other forms of assistance

Learn more about financial aid.

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Program Courses
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Manufacturing Programs
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Career Pathway

What Makes This Program Unique

1

Learn on state-of-the-art Lincoln welders.

2

Enhance your skills by working on challenging projects.

3

Take advantage of the opportunity to participate in an award-winning SkillsUSA team.

Welding Technician

Similar Programs

Related Certificates

Program Pathway

Earn certificates, technical diplomas and/or industry credentials along this pathway. Start with some courses for entry-level employment, and continue with additional courses for higher wages and job advancement.

Metal Fabrication/Welding Pathway
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Prior Learning
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Certificates
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Technical Diploma
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Associate Degree
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Bachelor's Degree

Earn credit for prior learning for the college-level knowledge and skills that you've already acquired through advanced high school classes, previous ollege coursework, self-study, military training work or volunteer experience.

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Technical Diploma

WCTC has credit transfer agreements with many four-year institutions that allow our degree graduates to transfer credits into a baccalaureate program, often at junior-level standing.

More Credit Opportunities

High School Dual Credit

Dual enrollment offers high school students an opportunity to get a head start in high-demand fields while earning college credits.

Learn More

Credit for Prior Learning

You may have the opportunity to obtain credit for the college-level skills and knowledge you've already acquired through prior coursework, work experience and more.

Learn More

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