Welding

The welding program prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to join or cut metal surfaces and includes instruction in arc welding, resistance welding, brazing and soldering, cutting, high-energy beam welding and cutting, solid state welding, ferrous and non-ferrous materials, oxidation-reduction reactions, welding metallurgy, welding processes and heat treating, structural design, safety, and applicable codes and standards.

Students gain hands-on experience with welding projects in the college's welding shop. Graduates of the program will be well-prepared for entry-level positions in the welding field, or to transfer to a four-year college to pursue a bachelor's degree in a related field.

What is Welding?

Welding is a process of joining two or more metal pieces together by heating the surfaces to their melting point and then allowing them to cool and fuse. It is a commonly used technique in the oil, manufacturing, construction, and repair industries. Welding can be done using various methods such as TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas), MIG (Metal Inert Gas), and Stick welding. These techniques differ in the type of electrode used, the shielding gas, and the welding position. Welders must have a good understanding of the properties of the metals they are working with, as well as the appropriate welding techniques and safety procedures.

Is Welding Right for Me?

Welding is ideal for those who enjoy working with their hands, have strong problem-solving skills, and are detail oriented. Welding can be a physically demanding job, so students should also be physically fit and able to handle the equipment and tools used in welding. The program is a good fit for individuals who are looking for a career that offers job security and opportunities for advancement, as there is a high demand for skilled welders in a variety of industries.

Some key traits and skills that would make someone a good fit for studying welding include:

• Strong attention to detail
• Good hand-eye coordination
• Physical fitness
• Problem-solving skills
• Patience
• Ability to work independently
• Technical knowledge
• Strong work ethic

Degrees/Certificates

Welding Associate of Science Degree

Students must comply with the requirements as shown in the catalog under graduation requirements. Students should seek the advice of a welding instructor, counselor or advisor for assistance in planning for a associate degree.

Welding Certificate of Achievement

Students must comply with the requirements as shown in the catalog under certificate requirements. Students should seek the advice of a welding instructor, counselor or advisor for assistance in planning for a welding Certificate of Achievement.

Welding Certification Job Skills Certificate

This certificate emphasizes welding processes of SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, Oxy/Acetylene cutting, and Blueprint Reading. Theory and application as well as safety of these processes while welding on mild steel are emphasized. This program prepares students for careers in Welding Entry Level Welding Job.

Blueprint Reading and Layout for Welders Job Skills Certificate

This certificate covers the principles of blueprint reading as it applies to welders. Emphasis is placed on the ability to visualize and interpret working drawings.

Gas Metal Arc/Gas Tungsten Arc/Flux Core Arc Welding Job Skills Certificate

This certificate emphasizes welding processes of gas metal arc welding (GMAW), gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) and flux core arc welding (FCAW).

Shielded Metal Arc Welding Job Skills Certificate

This certificate emphasizes welding processes from oxyacetylene cutting and brazing through shielded metal arc welding using many different welding electrodes and all positions.

Introduction to Welding Processes Certificate of Completion NC

This certificate emphasizes understanding of basic welding processes. Theory and application as well as safety of these processes while welding on mild steel are emphasized. This program prepares students for entry-level employment in welding. 

Paying For Education

You CAN Afford BC

Don’t let finances get in the way of your goals. Get help paying for college costs like tuition, books, or sometimes even the rent with a variety of financial aid options to help you reach your educational and career goals.

I Can Afford College

Careers

An individual with a welding degree or certificate can pursue a variety of careers in the welding industry. Some possible career paths include:

• Welding Technician: A welding technician performs various welding tasks such as layout, fitting, and welding using different welding techniques and materials.
• Welding Inspector: A welding inspector examines welded joints to ensure that they meet safety and quality standards.
• Welding Engineer: A welding engineer designs, tests, and evaluates welding equipment and processes to improve efficiency, safety, and quality.
• Welding Educator: A welding educator teaches welding techniques, safety practices, and equipment operation in a variety of settings, including technical schools, community colleges, and apprenticeship programs.
• Metal Fabricator: A metal fabricator uses welding techniques to assemble metal parts and structures according to blueprints and specifications.
• Pipefitter/Welder: A pipefitter/welder installs and repairs piping systems using welding techniques to join pipes and fittings.
• Welding Sales Representative: A welding sales representative sells welding equipment, supplies, and services to businesses and individuals in the welding industry.

Overall, a Welding Associates Degree provides a foundation for a rewarding career in a growing industry with many opportunities for advancement.

Beyond BC

Transfer to a University

Graduates with an Associate Degree from Bakersfield College may choose to continue their education at a university to earn a 4-year degree. See your Counselor and/or a Transfer Specialist for specific questions, options, and opportunities.

Transfer Pathways

Academic Department: Industrial Technology

Career & Learning Pathway: Industrial Technology and Transportation Pathway

Courses: Welding (WELD)