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Welding

Students interested in careers in welding, engineering, automotive or diesel technology, or any number of trades, should consider earning a welding degree at KCC.
 
KCC offers two paths to welding-related careers. The first is a pathway that focuses on one aspect of welding (stick, TIG or MIG) and can be completed in about two terms. The second is a pathway that allows students to earn a welding certificate in one year.

For more information regarding credentialing and accreditation please see the Accreditation page.

This program may provide prior learning credit and extended learning opportunities for persons previously or currently employed in related professions.

For more information see the Credit for Prior Learning page.

FAQ

What type of welding education does KCC offer?

Klamath Community College’s Welding Technology program offers a one-year certificate of completion, as well as single classes. Emphasis areas include shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), flux-cored arc welding (FCAW), oxy-acetylene welding and cutting (OAW), and basic fabrication.

What do you learn while earning the Welding Technology Certificate?

The Welding Technology Certificate includes blueprint reading, welding processes and applications, welding metallurgy, shielded metal arc welding, gas metal arc welding, basic fabrication, and SMAW certification practice.

What is a SMAW certification?

The American Welding Society offers most welding certifications through its certified welder program. Welding certifications are organized by positions, thicknesses, processes, and metal type. Most plate welding certifications use groove welds and follow a coding system:

 

1: Flat position
2: Horizontal position
3: Vertical position
4: Overhead position
F: Fillet weld
G: Groove weld

 

You can get certified in one or more of the classifications.

Careers in Welding

Median Annual Salary

  • United States:
    $41,230
  • Oregon State:
    $51,317
  • Klamath  Region:
    $47,657

2021-2030 Employment Projection

21.6% Growth

Entry Level Educational Requirements:

High School Diploma
 

Prospective Jobs

Production worker Welder Fabricator
Production supervisor Shop foreman  

All data was gathered from the State of Oregon Employment Department and Bureau of Labor Statistics.
 
Data is provided for a welding position. For a different employment forecast please visit the State of Oregon Employment Department.

Contact Welding

Matthew Walter
Welding Program Lead
OIT, Cornett Hall, Room 212, Welding Lab
541-880-2267