Welding and Metal Fabrication
MCTC's Welding and Metal Fabrication Certificate will provide you with the technical knowledge and hands-on skills you need to gain entry level employment with manufacturing plants and various industries.
This program will introduce you to current welding and metal fabrication processes widely used in a great variety of work environments. Throughout the program you will receive practical information on how metal fabrication processes work. Then, you will apply that knowledge in a hands-on environment by utilizing welding and metal fabrication equipment. By examining your projects with the instructor you will begin to develop a skill and knowledge base that will be useful in shops and at work sites. In addition, you will learn about shop safety and safe work practices, blueprint reading, applied math and general fabrication methods.
To participate in the program, you should be in good physical health and stamina, able to lift 50 pounds, and have good eye-hand coordination and manual dexterity.
With additional education and training you may advance to more skilled jobs in the manufacturing and construction fields, or open your own shop. Welding courses are also valuable for persons who have careers or interests that require some welding knowledge.
MCTC has an articulation agreement with the Welding Program at St. Paul College.
Degrees, diplomas and certificates
- Welding and Metal Fabrication Certificate
Refer to the 2009-10 College Catalog for the requirements to degrees, diplomas and/or certificates available through the Welding and Metal Fabrication program.
Read MCTC's articulation agreements with other colleges and universities.
Faculty/staff listing
- Main number: 612-659-6054
- Fax number: 612-659-6825
Frequently asked questions
- How long has welding been around?
- Metal fabrication, which is welding, machining and stamping, is the single largest factor in shaping the way the world is today, for better and worse. Welding has existed for 5000 years, but only forge welding. Only about 100 years ago arc welding (using electricity) and Oxy/Acetylene welding (using compressed gases) were invented, so the advancements in all current welding technology are relatively new. Much of the work in manufacturing today involves computers and has become technically challenging.
- How do I know if welding is something to consider doing?
- Metal working is a hands-on learning experience, solving problems with your mind and body. If you like to build things, welding is a great way to enhance you skills and earn a living at the same time. Welding has a long tradition as an art form and hold great potential for creative expression as well
- Is there a demand for people with welding skills?
- Current job market for welders is strong, demand is high. With the retirement of the “Baby Boomer” generation, there are many skilled jobs openings and wages for those jobs continue to climb.
- Is there opportunity in the field for advancement?
- Certificate is the first step to opening doors in manufacturing, engineering, metallurgy and construction. Excellent stepping stone for further education in the manufacturing and engineering fields with the capacity for advancement.
- How much can I make?
- Starting wages are $12 to $20 per hour to start with full benefits (medical, dental, time off etc...) and wages up to $30 per hour with additional training. Many companies have a tuition reimbursement plan so additional education could be paid for.
