Are you interested in a career in welding? At MCC, students will learn a variety of welding techniques including: shielded metal arc welding, MIG welding, TIG welding, pipe welding, flame cutting and plasma cutting. Coursework includes interpreting blueprints, electrical fundamentals, welding metallurgy and American Welding Society electrode classifications.
What you'll learn
You will learn to set up and operate welding equipment and to use manual welding and thermal-cutting equipment to weld or cut metal components.
Students will use equipment and techniques used in the industry and build a solid knowledge foundation to enter the workforce. Our programs prepare students for AWS Level 1 and Level 2 certifications.
Accreditation
MCC-Penn Valley is certified as an American Welding Society training facility.
The American Welding Society (AWS) determines industry standards for welding and is recognized worldwide. The AWS Level I and Level II curriculum has been implemented in all welding classes. These changes will better prepare our students for AWS certification and expand their career prospects.
Career and salary information
Visit the MoSCORES website for information on MCC's programs, including length, credit hours, and wage and employment data. Search Metropolitan Community College. Note: The historical data listed is informational and can vary based on the number of credit hours students earn, local wage conditions and other factors.
Where you'll work as a welder
Graduates can work as a welder, fabricator, maintenance welder, MIG/TIG welder, inspector, manager, salesperson, engineer, pipefitter and more. Our alumni work at construction companies, manufacturing companies, small businesses and maintenance companies.
Transfer made simple
Many MCC students plan to transfer. Whatever your transfer destination, we'll work to make sure your credits move easily. That's why we're experts at it.
We've worked out specific transfer agreements with many four-year colleges and universities, so make sure you speak with an academic advisor before enrolling, particularly since transfer agreements can change based on curriculum revisions.
Learn more about MCC's seamless transfer
Frequently asked questions
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Yes, check with an academic advisor for more information.
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MCC is a great value. Our tuition is one of the lowest in the area - about 1/3 that of public four-year schools and a tiny fraction of private colleges. We offer many ways to pay plus a tuition payment plan to make it even easier to afford college.
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Yes, you can test out of certain courses. We offer credit for select federally approved apprenticeship programs.
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Some of the personal characteristics needed for this career:
- Physical ability: Must be able to climb, carry, bend and physically maneuver to complete work assignments.
- Attention to detail: Focus and thoroughness on details to complete work assignments.
- Dependability: A responsible, reliable and dependable person to fulfill obligations.
- Self control: Individuals must be calm, focused and composed even in adverse situations. Must be able to control emotions, anger and aggressive behavior.
- Independence: Working with little or no supervision. Individuals must depend on themselves to complete job tasks.
- Stress tolerance: The ability to accept criticism and be able to deal rationally with stressful situations.
- Achievement/effort: Having the drive and ambition to meet personally challenging goals and putting effort into mastering job tasks.
- Persistence: The ability to stick with difficult job tasks in the face of adversity to fulfill work assignments.
- Cooperation: A positive, pleasant attitude in order to succeed in a team environment.
- Analytical thinking: Problem-solving and logical skills in analyzing work-related issues and troubleshooting.
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- Welders are well rewarded for their knowledge, skill and experience.
- Skilled and knowledgeable welders are in high demand according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
- Many job openings stem from retirements within the field - welders enjoy stable employment.
- Experienced instructors bring real-world experience to the classroom
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- Construction companies
- Fabrication and manufacturing companies
- Small businesses
- Self-employed
Industrial welders work in a wide range of locations. A large number of welders travel about metropolitan areas servicing equipment at customer locations.
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You'll experience a very hands-on and interactive learning environment. Classes are small for personal instruction. You'll get dedicated instructors and excellent student services--all at an affordable cost.
- Our classes combine instructor-led and online learning with hands-on lab work.
- Industry professionals teach convenient evening classes.
- Employers love to hire our graduates.