About Our Program
The Basic Welding program provides the academic and technical skills as well as the occupational basics for the person wishing to enter the field as an entry-level worker.
Nature of Work and Employment
Graduates of this program have the entry-level job skills required in welding and metal fabrication. These skills are developed in the areas of Print Reading, Materials, Layout, Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), and Metal Inert Gas Welding (GMAW).
Special Considerations
This work requires laying out jobs according to drawings or blueprints and determining the welding method best suited for the metals being fused.
Program Outcomes
Students who complete this program of study will:
- Interpret Welding Symbols and Blueprint drawings. Read and accurately interpret welding symbols, blueprints and technical drawings to plan welding tasks according to specifications.
- Demonstrate safety practices for all the types of welding. Including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safe handling of tools and materials and appropriate shop procedures.
- Demonstrate proper welding techniques in these types of welding: Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) on a variety of metal types in the following positions: Flat, Overhead, Vertical, Horizontal.
- Inspect and Evaluate Welds. Perform basic and mechanical inspections of welds to assess weld quality.
Program Contacts
Call Highland at 815-235-6121 for the following program contacts:
- Dr. Matt Magee, Dean of Agriculture, Business & Technology
- Todd Vacek, Welding Faculty
- Vicki Schulz, Student Advisor/Transfer Coordinator
