Welding Certificate

All-around welding & metalwork

Try your hand at multiple techniques. Bring your own projects to life with increasing skill and metal vision. Take those skills into a challenging and rewarding career, working with your hands, eyes and mind.

You'll earn credentials that stack towards the Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Welding & Fabrication Technology. For this certificate, you develop fundamental skills in a range of welding and metalworking techniques:

gas metal arc welding (GMAW)
shielded metal arc welding (SMAW)
gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW)
oxy-fuel welding

thermal-cutting, industry math and blueprint reading
fabrication skills including metal forming, cutting, assembly and processing
metallurgy fundamentals

What can you do with this Welding Certificate?

You’re ready for an entry-level welding or metalworking position. You can advance quickly, especially with the range of techniques you understand and your extensive, hands-on experience.

Choose from one of our 7 credentials in welding—we designed them to work together for you, so you can stack them into more advanced certificates or your associate degree. Start where you want, add skills to meet a different job need and if you want, keep going.
The foundation is 1 semester that covers basic skills and safety. That semester counts as the General Welding Certificate (9 credits, 1 semester). From that foundation, you can learn additional skills, in different combinations (the first 9 credits of each certificate are the same across all programs):
- Welding Fabrication (19 credits)—add 9 credits of metalworking and metallurgy to the common base
- Gas Metal Arc Welding (23 credits)—add 12 credits of gas welding and brazing to the common base
- Shielded Metal Arc Welding (23 credits)—add 3 credits of shielded metal arc welding (aka “stick welding”) to the Gas Metal Arc Welding Certificate
- Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (23 credits)—add 12 credits of gas tungsten welding and brazing to the common base
- Welding (45 credits)—All the welding and fabrication courses from all the certificates, plus a math class and a certification class.
- Associate in Applied Science (61 credits)—Everything in the Welding Certificate, plus a couple specialized welding courses and a handful of classes in business, communications, fine art or science.
CLC has the largest welding and fabrication laboratory in Illinois located at the Advanced Technology Center (ATC). At 28,000 square feet, we are a true snapshot of what you will find in real-world facilities. The ATC features an extensive variety of arc welding equipment, laser welders and orbital welders. Other equipment include:
- 4 welding robots for tungsten inert gas (TIG) and metal inert gas (MIG) welding
- laser and plasma CNC cutters
- CNC press brakes
- lathes, mills, drill presses, iron workers and various saws
CLC students won first through third place trophies in speed cutting and multiple categories of welding during the American Welding Society's "Behind the Mask" welding competition.

Recent graduate of CLC, Ethan Klisch, used his Welding and Fabrication A.A.S. degree to fabricate a design that matched a client's needs. Using SolidWorks and a CNC plasma cutter, Klisch designed, shaped and welded the components for the National Loon Center's outdoor exhibits. Maybe they'll come back as a client for his future business!

See what students love about the welding and fabrication technology program at CLC. Picture yourself here:

Vealo en español
Watch video on YouTube

Highlights

Career Certificate

Earn a career certificate in 2 years to refine your skills into an in-demand career.
Accredited by the AWS

Students can get certified by the American Welding Society (AWS).
Metallica Scholarships

Heavy metal scholarships available.
Advanced Technology Center (ATC)

State-of-the-art facilities to build career-ready skills
Credit for Prior Learning

Receive college credit for what you already know.
Financial Aid/Scholarships Available

Based on need and/or achievement. Explore ways to pay for college.
Program Length: 2 Years

Full-time students finish in 2 years.

Career Outlook

Directly supervise and coordinate activities of construction or extraction workers.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $51,316
  
  Median
  
  $95,265
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $135,881
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $24.66
  
  Median
  
  $45.80
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $65.32
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  42.74%
  
  Certificate
  
  27.04%
  
  Some college
  
  7.84%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  11.88%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  10.49%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Perform work involving the skills of two or more maintenance or craft occupations to keep machines, mechanical equipment, or the structure of a building in repair. Duties may involve pipe fitting; HVAC maintenance; insulating; welding; machining; carpentry; repairing electrical or mechanical equipment; installing, aligning, and balancing new equipment; and repairing buildings, floors, or stairs.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $32,139
  
  Median
  
  $51,334
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $83,102
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $15.44
  
  Median
  
  $24.68
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $39.95
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  26.02%
  
  Certificate
  
  62.97%
  
  Some college
  
  6.62%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  2.85%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  0.35%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  1.17%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Assemble, install, alter, and repair pipelines or pipe systems that carry water, steam, air, or other liquids or gases. May install heating and cooling equipment and mechanical control systems. Includes sprinkler fitters.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $43,518
  
  Median
  
  $91,050
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $115,799
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $20.92
  
  Median
  
  $43.77
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $55.67
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  42.78%
  
  Certificate
  
  43.26%
  
  Some college
  
  4.63%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  9.34%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Position and secure steel bars or mesh in concrete forms in order to reinforce concrete. Use a variety of fasteners, rod-bending machines, blowtorches, and hand tools. Includes rod busters.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $50,623
  
  Median
  
  $74,766
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $126,486
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $24.33
  
  Median
  
  $35.94
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $60.80
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  70.42%
  
  Certificate
  
  29.58%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Fabricate, assemble, install, and repair sheet metal products and equipment, such as ducts, control boxes, drainpipes, and furnace casings. Work may involve any of the following: setting up and operating fabricating machines to cut, bend, and straighten sheet metal; shaping metal over anvils, blocks, or forms using hammer; operating soldering and welding equipment to join sheet metal parts; or inspecting, assembling, and smoothing seams and joints of burred surfaces. Includes sheet metal duct installers who install prefabricated sheet metal ducts used for heating, air conditioning, or other purposes.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $36,273
  
  Median
  
  $82,158
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $119,524
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $17.44
  
  Median
  
  $39.50
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $57.46
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  56.2%
  
  Certificate
  
  43.81%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Raise, place, and unite iron or steel girders, columns, and other structural members to form completed structures or structural frameworks. May erect metal storage tanks and assemble prefabricated metal buildings.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $59,357
  
  Median
  
  $92,017
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $119,811
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $28.53
  
  Median
  
  $44.23
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $57.59
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  75.77%
  
  Certificate
  
  19.21%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  5.03%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Use hand-welding, flame-cutting, hand-soldering, or brazing equipment to weld or join metal components or to fill holes, indentations, or seams of fabricated metal products.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $33,991
  
  Median
  
  $47,568
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $68,367
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $16.34
  
  Median
  
  $22.87
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $32.87
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  74.38%
  
  Certificate
  
  11.64%
  
  Some college
  
  11.28%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  1.75%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  0.94%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).

View more careers

Need help?

Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) is your "go-to person" ready to help you get started at CLC.

Your CCN guides you through the admission process, helps you choose your academic program, enroll in classes and connect you with resources.

Talk to a CCN

Recommended Pathway

This pathway serves as a guide for students to complete the degree or certificate assuming full-time enrollment (registered in 12 or more credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more inclusive list of course options, see the college catalog.

View program in catalog

Icon Key

Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Global citizenship
Online/Virtual options available

Course Code	Course Title	Credits
CLC 120	CLC 120 College Success Seminar Class Description This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.	2
WFT 170	WFT 170 General Welding Class Description This course (formerly WLD 170) is designed to introduce students to common welding processes and the industry. A general and basic knowledge of industry safety, operation and the fundamentals of common arc and gas welding processes are studied and practiced. Thermal cutting and other various industry basics are also introduced. Primary and essential skills regarding safe and proper operation will be developed and practiced. Equipment set up, applications, tools, material fundamentals will be covered. Development of welding skill and technique is secondary to understanding safety and knowledge of welding processes and associated equipment. Note: Student must furnish basic required PPE.	3
WFT 270	WFT 270 General Welding II Class Description This course is a continuation of WLD170. Additional welding theory in GMAW, FCAW, SMAW, GTAW and Thermal Cutting is studied and practiced. Lab times are dedicated to developing techniques used on low carbon steel alloys in the flat position. Metallurgy and Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) and blueprints are studied and practiced. Qualitative testing is introduced and practiced following AWS standards. Note: Student must furnish basic required PPE.	3
WFT 113	WFT 113 Welding Blueprint Reading Class Description This course (formerly WLD 113) will cover the study and development of blueprint reading skills as they apply to the metals/welding fabrication trades. Skill and proficiency in understanding the make-up and interpretation of prints will include the study of associated materials, processing, dimensioning, weld joint designs and symbols, as well as fundamental drawing abilities. NOTE: Student must furnish basic required equipment.	3
MTH 114	MTH 114 Applied Mathematics Class Description This course explores the basic principles of mathematics with an emphasis on career technical applications. Operations of signed numbers including integers fractions and decimals are studied. Further areas of study include ratios, proportions, percentages, measuring systems, unit conversions, precision, accuracy, scientific notation introductory algebra and practical geometry.	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	CLC 120
Course Title	CLC 120 College Success Seminar Class Description This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
Credits	2

Course Highlights
Course Code	WFT 170
Course Title	WFT 170 General Welding Class Description This course (formerly WLD 170) is designed to introduce students to common welding processes and the industry. A general and basic knowledge of industry safety, operation and the fundamentals of common arc and gas welding processes are studied and practiced. Thermal cutting and other various industry basics are also introduced. Primary and essential skills regarding safe and proper operation will be developed and practiced. Equipment set up, applications, tools, material fundamentals will be covered. Development of welding skill and technique is secondary to understanding safety and knowledge of welding processes and associated equipment. Note: Student must furnish basic required PPE.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	WFT 270
Course Title	WFT 270 General Welding II Class Description This course is a continuation of WLD170. Additional welding theory in GMAW, FCAW, SMAW, GTAW and Thermal Cutting is studied and practiced. Lab times are dedicated to developing techniques used on low carbon steel alloys in the flat position. Metallurgy and Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) and blueprints are studied and practiced. Qualitative testing is introduced and practiced following AWS standards. Note: Student must furnish basic required PPE.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	WFT 113
Course Title	WFT 113 Welding Blueprint Reading Class Description This course (formerly WLD 113) will cover the study and development of blueprint reading skills as they apply to the metals/welding fabrication trades. Skill and proficiency in understanding the make-up and interpretation of prints will include the study of associated materials, processing, dimensioning, weld joint designs and symbols, as well as fundamental drawing abilities. NOTE: Student must furnish basic required equipment.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	MTH 114
Course Title	MTH 114 Applied Mathematics Class Description This course explores the basic principles of mathematics with an emphasis on career technical applications. Operations of signed numbers including integers fractions and decimals are studied. Further areas of study include ratios, proportions, percentages, measuring systems, unit conversions, precision, accuracy, scientific notation introductory algebra and practical geometry.
Credits	3

Course Code	Course Title	Credits
WFT 171	WFT 171 Gas Welding, Brazing and Thermal Cutting Class Description This course (formerly WLD 171) will present welding theory, safety, care of equipment, skill development and application with the oxy-fuel process. Students will study and practice fusion welding, brazing, and conditioning techniques. Various thermal cutting processes including oxy-fuel, plasma, carbon-arc and laser will be studied and practiced. Opportunity to practice and work with steel, cast iron, aluminum, and stainless steel will be presented. Note: Student must furnish basic required PPE.	3
PMT 140	PMT 140 Metallurgy for Metalworking Class Description This course develops familiarization with the various ferrous and non-ferrous metals used in the metalworking industry. This is a study of metals and their properties, metallurgical concepts, steel numbering system, Iron-Carbon diagrams, various heat-treating procedures, Isothermal Transformation diagrams, and destructive and non-destructive testing. Students will prepare metallurgical samples for investigating grain structure and study how physical, chemical, and mechanical properties affect and impact metals when welded and machined. Practical application will provide experience in the use of laboratory equipment and methods for heat treating and studying and reporting microstructures of ferrous, non-ferrous and specialty materials.	3
WFT 175	WFT 175 Gas Metal Arc Welding I Class Description This course (formerly WLD 175) covers the fundamental theory and practice of gas metal arc welding and flux core arc welding in the flat and horizontal positions. Short circuit, spray transfer methods are studied and practiced. A variety of material thickness and joint designs will be covered implementing single pass and multi-pass techniques. Students will also learn to set up equipment for the various applications, troubleshoot problems and apply corrective measures. Welding of steel and its alloys is the primary focus. Note: Student must furnish basic required PPE.	3
WFT 275	WFT 275 Gas Metal Arc Welding II Class Description This course is a continuation of WLD175 Gas Metal Arc Welding I. Students will be able to produce quality gas metal arc welds in the vertical and overhead positions on low-carbon steel meeting AWS standards. The single and multiple pass techniques will be further studied and practiced on pipe and plate. The study of GMAW with stainless steel and aluminum metals will be studied and practiced. Additionally, welding pipe and tube in all positions of both mild steel and stainless steel will be covered. Note: Student must furnish basic required PPE equipment.	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	WFT 171
Course Title	WFT 171 Gas Welding, Brazing and Thermal Cutting Class Description This course (formerly WLD 171) will present welding theory, safety, care of equipment, skill development and application with the oxy-fuel process. Students will study and practice fusion welding, brazing, and conditioning techniques. Various thermal cutting processes including oxy-fuel, plasma, carbon-arc and laser will be studied and practiced. Opportunity to practice and work with steel, cast iron, aluminum, and stainless steel will be presented. Note: Student must furnish basic required PPE.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	PMT 140
Course Title	PMT 140 Metallurgy for Metalworking Class Description This course develops familiarization with the various ferrous and non-ferrous metals used in the metalworking industry. This is a study of metals and their properties, metallurgical concepts, steel numbering system, Iron-Carbon diagrams, various heat-treating procedures, Isothermal Transformation diagrams, and destructive and non-destructive testing. Students will prepare metallurgical samples for investigating grain structure and study how physical, chemical, and mechanical properties affect and impact metals when welded and machined. Practical application will provide experience in the use of laboratory equipment and methods for heat treating and studying and reporting microstructures of ferrous, non-ferrous and specialty materials.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	WFT 175
Course Title	WFT 175 Gas Metal Arc Welding I Class Description This course (formerly WLD 175) covers the fundamental theory and practice of gas metal arc welding and flux core arc welding in the flat and horizontal positions. Short circuit, spray transfer methods are studied and practiced. A variety of material thickness and joint designs will be covered implementing single pass and multi-pass techniques. Students will also learn to set up equipment for the various applications, troubleshoot problems and apply corrective measures. Welding of steel and its alloys is the primary focus. Note: Student must furnish basic required PPE.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	WFT 275
Course Title	WFT 275 Gas Metal Arc Welding II Class Description This course is a continuation of WLD175 Gas Metal Arc Welding I. Students will be able to produce quality gas metal arc welds in the vertical and overhead positions on low-carbon steel meeting AWS standards. The single and multiple pass techniques will be further studied and practiced on pipe and plate. The study of GMAW with stainless steel and aluminum metals will be studied and practiced. Additionally, welding pipe and tube in all positions of both mild steel and stainless steel will be covered. Note: Student must furnish basic required PPE equipment.
Credits	3

Course Code	Course Title	Credits
WFT 172	WFT 172 Shielded Metal Arc Welding I Class Description This course (formerly WLD 172) covers the fundamental theory and practice of "stick" electrode welding in the flat and horizontal positions. Safety, equipment set-up and adjustment, materials preparation, techniques and electrode selection are studied and practiced. Opportunity to work with a variety of material thicknesses, joint designs implementing single pass and multi-pass techniques will be covered. Welding of steel and its alloys is the primary focus. Note: Student must furnish basic required PPE.	3
WFT 272	WFT 272 Shielded Metal Arc Welding II Class Description This is an advanced study in "stick" electrode welding theory and practices. It features the opportunity to develop out-of-position welding abilities on plate and pipe, study methods of weld testing, certification procedures, and welding of stainless steel, cast iron and aluminum with the SMAW process.Note: Student must furnish basic required equipment.	3
WFT 178	WFT 178 Gas Tungsten Arc Welding I Class Description This course (formerly WLD 178) covers the fundamental theory and practice of gas tungsten arc welding (TIG) in the flat and horizontal positions. A variety of material thickness and joint designs will be covered implementing single pass and multi-pass techniques. Students will learn to properly set up equipment and utilize various sub-features. Students will also learn to troubleshoot common problems and apply corrective measures. Welding of steel and its alloys is the primary focus. Note: Student must furnish basic required PPE.	3
WFT 278	WFT 278 Gas Tungsten Arc Welding II Class Description This course (formerly WLD 179) is a continuation of WFT 178 (formerly WLD 178) Gas Tungsten Arc Welding. Study and practice will include welding of low-carbon steel plate in vertical and over head positions using single and multi-pass techniques. Additionally, low-carbon steel pipe/tube welding will be introduced and practiced in various positions. The continuation of aluminum GTAW will be further studied and practiced. Stainless steel GTAW will be introduced and practiced with both plate and pipe/tube in various positions. Other metals and techniques including titanium, nickle alloys and "tig brazing" will be studied and practiced. Note: Student must furnish basic required PPE.	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	WFT 172
Course Title	WFT 172 Shielded Metal Arc Welding I Class Description This course (formerly WLD 172) covers the fundamental theory and practice of "stick" electrode welding in the flat and horizontal positions. Safety, equipment set-up and adjustment, materials preparation, techniques and electrode selection are studied and practiced. Opportunity to work with a variety of material thicknesses, joint designs implementing single pass and multi-pass techniques will be covered. Welding of steel and its alloys is the primary focus. Note: Student must furnish basic required PPE.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	WFT 272
Course Title	WFT 272 Shielded Metal Arc Welding II Class Description This is an advanced study in "stick" electrode welding theory and practices. It features the opportunity to develop out-of-position welding abilities on plate and pipe, study methods of weld testing, certification procedures, and welding of stainless steel, cast iron and aluminum with the SMAW process.Note: Student must furnish basic required equipment.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	WFT 178
Course Title	WFT 178 Gas Tungsten Arc Welding I Class Description This course (formerly WLD 178) covers the fundamental theory and practice of gas tungsten arc welding (TIG) in the flat and horizontal positions. A variety of material thickness and joint designs will be covered implementing single pass and multi-pass techniques. Students will learn to properly set up equipment and utilize various sub-features. Students will also learn to troubleshoot common problems and apply corrective measures. Welding of steel and its alloys is the primary focus. Note: Student must furnish basic required PPE.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	WFT 278
Course Title	WFT 278 Gas Tungsten Arc Welding II Class Description This course (formerly WLD 179) is a continuation of WFT 178 (formerly WLD 178) Gas Tungsten Arc Welding. Study and practice will include welding of low-carbon steel plate in vertical and over head positions using single and multi-pass techniques. Additionally, low-carbon steel pipe/tube welding will be introduced and practiced in various positions. The continuation of aluminum GTAW will be further studied and practiced. Stainless steel GTAW will be introduced and practiced with both plate and pipe/tube in various positions. Other metals and techniques including titanium, nickle alloys and "tig brazing" will be studied and practiced. Note: Student must furnish basic required PPE.
Credits	3

Course Code	Course Title	Credits
WFT 117	WFT 117 Applied Welding Fabrication I Class Description This course enables the student to study supplemental machining skills required in the weldment fabrication industry. Students will gain experience on various machine tools such as: drill press, horizontal saws, vertical saws, pedestal grinders, brake press, and shears. The identification of various types of ferrous and non ferrous structural materials will also be visited. Students will continue the study of welding blueprint reading as well as advanced measurement and layout procedures. Final inspection of both welds and weldment dimensions are stressed along with metal finishing processes and the heat treatment of ferrous alloys. Note: Student must furnish basic required equipment.	3
WFT 217	WFT 217 Applied Welding Fabrication II Class Description This course is a continuation of WLD117-Applied Welding Fabrication I. Study and practice is continued in various metal forming and machining techniques including bending, rolling, turning and milling. Emphasis on blueprint reading, advanced measuring, layouts and assembly will be practiced. An introduction to machine programming will allow students to execute projects from idea to completed fabricated and welded assemblies. Advanced quality control, inspection and analysis will be studied and practiced. Supplemental post-fabricated processing will also be studied and practiced including metal conditioning and finishing. Note: Student must furnish required PPE.	3
WFT 176	WFT 176 Welding Certification and Testing Class Description This course (formerly WLD 176) prepares students to complete performance qualification testing in GTAW, GMAW and SMAW processes. American Welding Society structural welding codes will be used. In addition to qualitative welding tests, students will study and practice various methods and procedures for non-destructive testing and the associated equipment. Students will also study the importance of welding regulations in industry and associated applications. Note; Individuals or groups with special requirements and/or requests may enroll with the consent of the department chair and designated CWI. Note: Student must furnish basic required PPE.	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	WFT 117
Course Title	WFT 117 Applied Welding Fabrication I Class Description This course enables the student to study supplemental machining skills required in the weldment fabrication industry. Students will gain experience on various machine tools such as: drill press, horizontal saws, vertical saws, pedestal grinders, brake press, and shears. The identification of various types of ferrous and non ferrous structural materials will also be visited. Students will continue the study of welding blueprint reading as well as advanced measurement and layout procedures. Final inspection of both welds and weldment dimensions are stressed along with metal finishing processes and the heat treatment of ferrous alloys. Note: Student must furnish basic required equipment.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	WFT 217
Course Title	WFT 217 Applied Welding Fabrication II Class Description This course is a continuation of WLD117-Applied Welding Fabrication I. Study and practice is continued in various metal forming and machining techniques including bending, rolling, turning and milling. Emphasis on blueprint reading, advanced measuring, layouts and assembly will be practiced. An introduction to machine programming will allow students to execute projects from idea to completed fabricated and welded assemblies. Advanced quality control, inspection and analysis will be studied and practiced. Supplemental post-fabricated processing will also be studied and practiced including metal conditioning and finishing. Note: Student must furnish required PPE.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	WFT 176
Course Title	WFT 176 Welding Certification and Testing Class Description This course (formerly WLD 176) prepares students to complete performance qualification testing in GTAW, GMAW and SMAW processes. American Welding Society structural welding codes will be used. In addition to qualitative welding tests, students will study and practice various methods and procedures for non-destructive testing and the associated equipment. Students will also study the importance of welding regulations in industry and associated applications. Note; Individuals or groups with special requirements and/or requests may enroll with the consent of the department chair and designated CWI. Note: Student must furnish basic required PPE.
Credits	3

Total Credit Hours

47

Welding & Fabrication Technology at CLC: Get the bigger picture

An Advanced Welding-Fabrication Certificate is just one possible way to study Welding & Fabrication Technology. Get the bigger picture—degrees, credentials and extra options.

View the Welding and Fabrication Technology program overview

Frequently asked questions

Some of the skills you need to be successful in this program are:
- ability to work with your hands
- work both independently and as a team player
- ability to prioritize
- organizational skills
- attention to detail
- self-motivated
- critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- comfortable using technology and hand tools
- ability to write clearly
You qualify to take the following exams:
- AWS SENSE Level 1
- AWS SENSE Level 2
- Fundamentals of Metal Fabrication
You may earn industry credentials through the American Welding Society (AWS) and the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association (FMA) You may also compete in SkillsUSA.
With an Advanced Welding-Fabrication Certificate, you gain the following skills.
General knowledge:
- basic math: adding and subtracting fractions and decimals, geometry
- material knowledge: types of materials, material properties, material recognition, metal limits
- measure using the metric system
- basic metallurgy
- safety requirements
- blueprint reading
- read a tape measure
- weld terminology and symbols
- industry codes
- finishes
- basic layout
- tolerances
- machine knowledge
- safety certifications
- gain welding certifications
Safety regulations and requirements:
- inspect personal protective equipment
- wear personal protective equipment
- maintain safe work area
- provide for work area ventilation
- identify a confined space
- apply confined space safety practices
- follow Hot Work safety requirements
- monitor environment for safety hazards
- participate in safety briefing
- inspect equipment for safety hazards
Prepare welding materials:
- interpret prints, drawings, sketches and welding procedure specifications (WPS)
- gather welding materials
- select welding equipment
- certify welding equipment per job specifications
- perform minor repairs on welding equipment and accessories
- measure welding parts and materials
- drill or bore holes in parts and materials
- shear metal parts and materials
- bend or form metal parts and materials
- cut, bevel, deburr, or pierce metal parts and materials
- de-scale welding materials
- fit up parts or assemblies
- confirm materials according to the welding procedure specifications
- set up jigs and fixtures
Perform cutting, brazing and gouging:
- prepare job layout
- cut and bend with oxy-fuel equipment
- cut metal with arc-air equipment
- cut metal with plasma arc welding equipment
- cut metal using hand tools
- cut metal using power tools
- select material preparation method
- clean thermal affected area (remove slag)
Perform oxy-fuel cutting, brazing and welding:
- prepare job layout for oxy-fuel process
- set up oxy-fuel equipment
- confirm filler material and oxy-fuel
- verify flux for brazing
- check annealing requirements for brazing
- weld using oxy-fuel process (all positions) on common carbon steel, low alloy steel, sheet metal
- cut using oxy-fuel process (all positions) on common carbon steel, low alloy steel, sheet metal
- braze using oxy-fuel process in flat, inclined, or horizontal position on common carbon steel, low alloy steel, sheet metal
- clean oxy-fuel welds, cuts and brazes
- measure oxy-fuel welds, cuts and brazes for conformance to acceptance criteria
- perform required finish operations
- store oxy-fuel welding materials
Perform sub-arc welding:
- prepare job layout for sub-arc welding
- setup sub-arc equipment
- confirm filler material and flux
- preheat base metal to required temperature
- weld using sub-arc process on common carbon steel, low alloy steel, sheet metal
- clean sub-arc welds (remove slag)
- measure sub-arc welds for conformance to acceptance criteria
- perform finishing operations
- store sub-arc welding material
Employers who offer these types of jobs in Lake County include:
- AbbVie Inc.
- Geremarie Corporation
- JST
- Larsen Manufacturing LLC
- Ludlow Manufacturing
- S & C Electric Company
- Sargent & Lundy
- Wabtec Corporation
- MacLean-Fogg Company
- Waukegan Steel
- William M. Meyer & Sons

Kyle Thorne
Graduate
"While I love the space and equipment, it was the instructors that kept me at CLC. They helped make sure I learned the right way, and I had fun doing it."
Kyle took welding and fabrication classes at the CLC Grayslake campus and Advanced Technology Center in Gurnee. He then started his own mobile welding business. Kyle is one of many CLC graduates bringing their skills to the world of manufacturing.
Read Kyle's story

*Cost includes tuition and other fees, including books and materials before financial aid is applied, such as grants, loans or scholarships. There are many opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about Cost of Attendance.

Take the next step...

Be debt-free at CLC

CLC has some of the lowest tuition around. Financial aid and scholarships are available—even for working adults.

Paying for college

Explore careers

Discover majors and career paths to complement and extend your intuitive interests and abilities.

Explore Career Coach

Request info

Your education is a big investment of your time, money and attention. Gather all the info you need.

Send me info

Get started

Start your application today—it’s free and easy to complete. When you’re ready, we’re ready to help you take the next step.

Start today!

All-around welding & metalwork

What can you do with this Welding Certificate?

Earn while you learn with stackable credentials

Learn at the ATC: The largest in Illinois

Students succeed at CLC

Highlights

Career Certificate

Accredited by the AWS

Metallica Scholarships

Advanced Technology Center (ATC)

Credit for Prior Learning

Financial Aid/Scholarships Available

Program Length: 2 Years

Career Outlook

First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Maintenance and Repair Workers, General

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Workers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Sheet Metal Workers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Structural Iron and Steel Workers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Need help?

Recommended Pathway

Icon Key

Semester 1 14 Credits

Semester 2 12 Credits

Semester 3 12 Credits

Semester 4 9 Credits

Total Credit Hours

Welding & Fabrication Technology at CLC: Get the bigger picture

Frequently asked questions

What are some skills I need to be successful in this program?

What exams will I qualify for after I complete the program?

What skills will I learn in this program?

Where will I find these types of jobs in Lake County?

Kyle Thorne

Take the next step...

Be debt-free at CLC

Explore careers

Request info

Get started