A welding student in a mask sprays sparks.

Welding Technology AAS

The 60-hour Associate of Applied Science Degree in Welding Technology program is designed to prepare students for careers in welding and metal fabrication through comprehensive hands-on training and technical instruction. The program equips students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to interpret blueprints, operate industry-standard welding equipment, and adhere to safety and quality control standards. Emphasizing structural, pipe, and fabrication welding, the program ensures that graduates are workforce-ready, adaptable to evolving industry technologies, and capable of obtaining relevant certifications.
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Area of Study: Technical Programs

  • Learn & Earn Eligible, Technical Programs

Program Costs & Financial Aid

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Learn & Earn Eligible

Explore Locations

Advanced Technology Center

Greenbrier Valley Campus

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate proficiency in multiple welding processes by performing high-quality welds in accordance with industry standards and employer expectations.
2. Interpret and apply welding blueprints, symbols, and fabrication drawings to accurately complete welding and assembly projects.
3. Ensure compliance with workplace safety regulations and industry standards, including personal protective equipment (PPE) usage, proper ventilation, and fire prevention techniques.
4. Analyze material properties and select appropriate welding techniques for different metals and alloys to achieve desired mechanical and structural integrity.
5. Identify and troubleshoot welding defects by applying corrective actions and process adjustments to improve weld quality and durability.

To be eligible for admission into this program, students must meet the general requirements for admission to New River Community and Technical College.

For more information, contact Brad Veneri at bveneri@newriver.edu or 304-929-3301; or Billy Graham at bgraham@newriver.edu or 304-647-6715.

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Total Program Hours: 60-61

Graduates of the welding program can find a career in several fields of their choice. Careers include building trade apprenticeships, repair welding, pipefitter/welder, power industy welding, production welding, aircraft welding, pressure vessel construction, structural steel welding, soldering and brazing, automotive welding and fabricator. Basic skills of welding are the same across several industries, so welders can easily shift from one industry to another, depending on where they are needed.

Programmatic Goals
1. Safety and Industry Standards: Ensure students demonstrate proficiency in workplace safety protocols, hazard identification, and industry regulations, including OSHA and AWS standards.
2. Technical Welding Proficiency: Develop students’ ability to perform various welding processes, including Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), and Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW).
3. Blueprint and Symbol Interpretation: Train students to accurately read and interpret welding symbols, blueprints, and schematics to fabricate metal components with precision.
4. Materials and Metallurgy Knowledge: Provide students with an understanding of metal properties, heat treatments, and welding metallurgy to ensure high-quality welds.
5. Workplace Readiness and Problem-Solving: Develop students’ critical thinking and troubleshooting skills to address welding defects, optimize techniques, and enhance overall fabrication quality.
6. Certification and Career Preparation: Prepare students for American Welding Society (AWS) certifications and other industry-recognized credentials to increase employability in welding and fabrication careers.