The welding technology program prepares welders, burners and related personnel to meet the needs of area and national industry. Emphasis is on practice and principles necessary for industry. We follow American Welding Society Level I and II National Standards.

The market for skilled welders is expanding as the industry's use of technology advances. Welding is essential to manufacturing, construction, computers, electronics, and automobile and aircraft production. Welders also are needed for X-ray repair on pressure vessels and to repair or rebuild farm and manufacturing equipment. Southwestern works with several corporations and trade unions to train welders.

Students learn Shielded Metal Arc Welding; Gas metal Arc Welding, including short circuits, globular and spray transfers; Flux Cored Arc Welding and Plasma Arc Welding and Cutting; Acetylene Welding and Cutting; Gas Tungsten Arc Welding; blueprint reading; layout fitup; and how to inspect welds.

Welders can earn between $14 and $30 per hour with average pay between $14 and $18 per hour.

(SWIC Website, 2008).