This is an archived copy of the 2017-2018 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://ecatalog.socc.edu.

The Career Pathway Certificate of Completion: Welding Assistant prepares students for entry-level jobs in a welding operation as a welder's assistant. Required courses are applicable toward the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Welding degree.

Click here to learn how this Career Pathway Certificate of Completion can lead to an AAS Welding and Fabrication.

Entry Requirements

Students are required to complete the College's placement process to determine skill level and readiness in math, reading and writing. As part of their training program, students must begin with the courses within their skill level as determined by the  placement process.

Because a variety of working conditions exist in the welding field, a person generally should be in good physical condition and able to stand, stoop, kneel and bend without difficulty and be able to lift and carry at least 50 pounds. Good eyesight, especially depth perception, is necessary for a welder.

By the second week of the term, students will need to purchase the proper PPE (personal protective equipment) required for the term. Required PPE includes: Welding hood, leathers or welding jacket, gauntlet gloves, safety glasses (clear and shade 5), and leather boots (steel toe is preferred). 

Graduation Requirements

Students must complete a minimum of 18 credit hours with a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0 or better. All courses in this program must be completed with a ‘C’ or better. One course must be completed at Southwestern before the Career Pathway Certificate of Completion: Welding Assistant is awarded.

Complete the graduation application process one term prior to the term of completion (e.g., spring term graduates must apply during winter term).

Program Guide

Plan of Study Grid
FallCredits
WLD100 Welding Process I 3
WLD101 Shielded Metal Arc Welding 6
 Credits9
Winter
WLD102 Welding Lab A 3
WLD103 Gas Metal Arc Welding 3
WLD104 Flux Forded Arc Welding 3
 Credits9
 Total Credits18

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program the student will be able to:

  • Assist with set-up and operation of manual and semi-automatic welding and cutting equipment used in the metal fabrication industry.
  • Perform rudimentary layout and fabrication skills to help produce welded metal parts.
  • Read and interpret simple blueprints and some American Welding Society standard welding symbols.