The Career
Welding is the most common way of permanently joining metal parts. In this process, heat is applied to metal pieces, melting and fusing them to form a permanent bond.
Because of its strength, welding is used in shipbuilding, automobile manufacturing and repair, aerospace applications and thousands of other manufacturing activities. Welding is also used to join beams when constructing buildings, bridges and other structures, and to join pipes in pipelines, power plants and refineries.
Professional Traits
Those pursuing a career in this field should:
- Have good eyesight, hand-eye coordination, and manual dexterity
- Be able to concentrate on detailed work for long periods of time
- Have the ability to bend, stoop and work in awkward positions
Employment and Salary Information
The welding profession is experiencing about average growth, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. By 2020, the number of positions is expected to increase by 15 percent.
Median annual earnings for welders were $36,300 in May 2012. Their salaries ranged from less than $24,720 (lowest 10 percent) to over $56,130 (top 10 percent). The difference in earnings reflects the wide span of skill levels in this profession.
These industries employed the highest number of welders in 2012:
- Manufacturing
- Construction
- Wholesale Trade
- Repair and Maintenance
The Program
East Central College’s welding program offers innovative instruction and individualized guidance for both the beginner and professional welder. It is held at the ECC Washington site in partnership with Four Rivers Career Center.
An enhanced learning environment is generated by mixing classroom instruction with the latest technical welding processes in the lab. This program prepares students to enter the workforce as welding technicians. Those currently in high school can choose to articulate coursework to the AAS degree program and continue with the general education block of coursework at ECC.
Assuming appropriate placement scores, full-time students can expect to complete the certificate of achievement in 24 months and certificate of specialization in 12 months.
Admissions Requirements
Students must have completed:
- High school diploma or the equivalent (documentation must be sent to the registration office)
- Application for admission
- A placement test as specified by the college (please note: some coursework requires minimum placement results)
Additional Program Information
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC)
51-4122.00, 51-4121.06
Job Placement Rate
Achievement: 50 percent
Tuition and Required Fees
Achievement: $3,290 (In-Distict); $4,375 (Out-of-District)
Specialization: $1,974 (In-Distict); $2,625 (Out-of-District)
Books and Supplies
$289.40
Other Fees and Expenses
Achievement: $140; Specialization $80
Accreditation
East Central College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
30 N. LaSalle St., Suite 2400
Chicago, Illinois 60602-2504
800-621-7440
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