Welding Technology

Welding is a process for permanently joining metals together using an electric arc to melt a filler-metal into the original metal. Quite simply – the process makes two pieces of metal into one.

A welder may also cut, contour and bevel metal plates and structural shapes into dimensions as specified by blueprints, work orders, and templates using torches, saws, shears, or other machine tools. Welding takes the skill and talent of an artist acquired through training and discipline.

Workforce Solutions (WIOA) Eligible

Students choosing this academic pathway may receive funding and other financial assistance and support from Workforce Solutions. See www.facebook.com/PermianBasinWorkforce, call (432) 367-1449 (option 5), or open the flyer for information on the services they provide in partnership with Midland College. The Workforce Solutions office is located on Midland College's main campus, in room 138 of the Technology Center (TC) Building. Note: Students receiving federal and state financial aid are not eligible for WIOA assistance.

Students learning/practicing in MC welding shop Students learning/practicing in MC welding shop Students learning/practicing in MC welding shop
     

Program Details

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At Midland College, an Associate of Applied Science for Welding Technology prepares you to pursue a career in welding fabrication, welding manufacturing, and/or welding repair. In addition, MC offers one of the best-equipped welding training facilities in the region. Students explore many facets of welding technology and gain access to career paths from manufacturing and industry to inspection and management.

The MC welding curriculum is designed to develop skills, attitudes, and competencies in welding processes including oxy-fuel welding and cutting, gas metal arc welding, gas tungsten arc welding, and shielded metal arc welding. In addition, students will receive training in welding safety, blueprint reading, metallurgy, and layout and fabrication.

Our program offers the following:

  • A curriculum designed to meet the needs of the welding industry.
  • Instruction for all positions on carbon and stainless steel plate and pipe, using the following multiple processes: Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) “Stick,” Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) “MIG,” Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) “TIG,” and Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) processes, plus Oxy-Fuels.
  • Certificates and continuing education courses for students who want to go directly into the workforce.
  • An Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree with academic courses that allow a well-rounded individual to meet the needs of industry and pursue career opportunities.

Marketable Skills

Pursuing a Welding certificate or degree will provide marketable skills in these areas:

  • Repairing – Repairing machines or systems using the right tools
  • Operation Monitoring – Watching gauges, dials, or display screens to make sure a machine is working
  • Troubleshooting – Figuring out what is causing equipment, machines, wiring, or computer programs to not work
  • Critical Thinking – Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
  • Equipment Selection – Deciding what kind of tools and equipment are needed to do a job

Career Opportunities

There are a number of in-demand career possibilities in:

  • Manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Energy Production/Transport
  • Inspection
  • Engineering
  • Robotics
  • Education
  • Project Management
  • Sales

Demand

In Texas, industries and communities are growing, especially in the petrochemical areas. As construction rates rise, so does the demand for talented welders. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) says the employment of welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers is projected to grow 6% from 2016 to 2026.

Apply for General Scholarships through the Financial Aid Portal

FAFSA Requirement

The student's FAFSA application must be on file with MC Financial Aid to access the Financial Aid Portal and apply for scholarships.

If the student's FAFSA application is not on file with MC Financial Aid, the student needs to complete the FAFSA application, and once processed, will have access to complete the general scholarship application.

FAFSA Information


How to Apply

  1. Complete current year FAFSA or TASFA applications
  2. Register for 6+ credit hours towards a degree or certification
  3. Minimum GPA of 2.50 or higher each semester

For additional scholarship details and deadlines, visit the General Scholarships page.

General Scholarships

Visit the course catalog for the most complete and up-to-date information.

 

Why study Welding Technology at MC?

Contact

Department Chair

Jaroy Roberts
Technology Center
Room 169B
(432) 685-4687
jroberts@midland.edu

Faculty

Welding Faculty Contact Information

Division Office

Applied Technology

Marie Hall Academic Building
Room 176
(432) 685-4676
Building Floor Plan

MAP

 

Apply to MC Now

Thank you for choosing Midland College! If you are here to collect a few credits, take courses to transfer, or here to start a new career, we welcome you.

How to Apply