Welding

1-Year Diploma Program | 33 Credits

The Welding program at Southeast Technical College prepares students to join metal components using fusion welding processes essential to modern industry. Welding skills are in demand across automobile manufacturing, aerospace, shipbuilding and construction including bridges and structural systems.

For those that enjoy hands-on work and precision craftsmanship, welding offers a career path with strong employment opportunities and room to grow.

 

Southeast Tech’s Welding program teaches you how to use a fusion process to join metal parts. Welding is used in many industries, including automobile manufacturing and repair, shipbuilding, aerospace, as well as in construction of bridges and other structures.

The welding process depends on the application and the conditions under which the work is being done. STC’s program focuses on ferrous and non-ferrous materials and welding in various positions and joint designs. Your other duties might include: 

• Reading blueprints, weld symbols and welding procedures
• Identifying and preventing weld defects
• Welding equipment setup and maintenance
• Identifying correct welding processes

Learn Welding Processes Used Across Industries

Welding techniques vary based on application, materials and jobsite conditions. At Southeast Tech, training focuses on both ferrous and non-ferrous materials while teaching welding in multiple positions and joint designs. Students gain experience with tasks such as:

• Reading blueprints, weld symbols and welding procedures
• Setting up and maintaining welding equipment
• Identifying and preventing weld defects
• Selecting appropriate welding processes for each application

This training prepares you to meet industry standards from day one.

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Build Job-Ready Skills Through Hands-On Training

Trade-focused coursework in Sioux Falls, South Dakota takes place in the Ed Wood Trade and Industry Center, where classroom instruction is paired with extensive lab experience.

Students develop expertise in:

• Cutting safety and procedures
• Base and filler material selection
• Blueprint interpretation
• Flux core arc welding
• Shielded metal arc welding
• Gas metal arc welding
• Gas tungsten arc welding
• Plasma arc cutting

This applied approach ensures graduates are confident in skill and ready for the workplace.

Strengthen Technical Precision and Problem-Solving Skills

Successful welders rely on attention to detail, manual dexterity and technical knowledge. Southeast Tech helps you master proper welding techniques while learning how to identify and troubleshoot weld defects, equipment issues and application challenges.

Students also learn how to interpret and apply AWS welding specifications, an essential skill in professional welding environments.

Earn Industry-Recognized Certification Opportunities

An added benefit of the Welding program is the opportunity to test for American Welding Society (AWS) certification upon completion of the two-semester program. This credential strengthens your resume and demonstrates your readiness to employers.