Launch a Career in Welding
Earn industry-recognized Miller certifications in MIG welding (GMAW), TIG welding (GTAW), and Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW). Prepare to take American Welding Society (AWS) certification tests and certifications, opening doors to a rewarding welding career.
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Cost and Funding Opportunities
Full funding may be available through your local county workforce office. Our Welding Technician program qualifies for the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which provides up to $3,000 to job seekers participating in training for in-demand industries. WIOA funding is administered locally through Finger Lakes Works.
If your county doesn’t provide WIOA funding for this career path, you can pay the cost upfront or arrange a payment plan with the college.
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Careers in Welding
Welding is a vital skill in industries like construction, manufacturing, and automotive repair. There is a strong demand for skilled welders across the region and nationwide. Our Welding Technician program was developed in partnership with local industry experts to meet regional workforce demands.
A career as a welder offers strong earning potential, with a median annual wage of $51,000 as of May 2024 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
After finishing our Welding Technician program, you’ll be qualified for manufacturing careers such as:
- Assembler
- Fabricator
- Pipefitter
- Production Welder
- Maintenance Technician
- Sheet Metal Worker
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What You'll Learn
- Learn industry-standard welding techniques.
- Practice welding in multiple positions.
- Develop safe work habits following shop safety procedures.
- Understand how different metals react to heat and welding.
- Interpret welding blueprints and technical drawings.
- Practice plasma cutting and flux-cored arc welding.
- Prepare for certification exams.
How You'll Learn
- Learn through a blend of demonstrations, practice, and real-time performance coaching.
- Begin with instructor-led classroom sessions that cover welding theory and safety.
- Build skills in a virtual environment using augmented reality welding simulators.
- Transition to hands-on training in a live welding shop with professional equipment.
- Receive personalized feedback and guidance from experienced instructors.
Apply Now to Explore Funding Options
Complete our free, online workforce application to explore funding options. Once we receive your application, we'll review your information and reach out with more information regarding available funding sources.
Upcoming Welding Technician Courses
Program sessions may change based on interest and enrollment. Our workforce team will work with you to find a time and location that fits your schedule.
| Dates (2025-26) | Location | Weekly Schedule | Meeting Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sept. 23 - Dec. 19 | Newark Campus Center | Mon, Wed, Fri | 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. |
| Sept. 23 - Feb. 26 | Yates | Tues, Thurs | 2:45 - 4:45 p.m. |
| Jan. 20 - April 14 | Newark Campus Center | Mon, Wed, Fri | 8 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. |
| May 19 - Aug. 14 | Newark Campus Center | Mon, Wed, Fri | 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. |
Workforce Training Near You
Participate in workforce programs at one of our partner locations in Ontario, Wayne, or Yates County. Growing Rural Infrastructure Together (GRIT) provides distraction-free study spaces and high-speed Internet to your community.
Workforce Training Programs
Workforce programs are short, affordable training designed to prepare you for a job quickly. With flexible start dates and no need to apply for college admission, these programs are created in partnership with local employers to address industry needs.
Gain practical skills and credentials that lead directly to stable, well-paying careers.
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