Metal Fabrication/Welding Technology career preparation teaches students gas metal arc welding, CNC plasma arc technology, blueprint reading, layout, fabrication of light and heavy gauge metals, shielded metal arc welding, soldering, brazing, oxygen/acetylene welding and cutting. Our shop uses a variety of machinery. During the three-year program, students receive over 725 hours of shop and related training. Written and practical exams are given throughout the program for certification in the American Welding Society. Welding skills are taught to the American Welding Society Qualification Standards. OSHA Construction certification classes are taken for an additional certification. The testing and training in accordance with the American Welding Society standards prepares for entry level positions in the Welder-Fitter and Certified Massachusetts Bridge Welder occupations. Students are prepared to go on to immediate employment or higher educational programs. In addition we have agreements with local unions and technical colleges to accept our program for credits toward apprenticeships.
What can you do with your Metal Fabrication/Welding Technology career training?
Metal fabricators assemble, shape and weld metal pieces into structures, architectural elements, airplanes, and automobiles. As manufacturing declines in the United States, temporary employment is becoming more common as employers hire metal fabricators for specific tasks.
Training you need:
Entry-level jobs require a high-school diploma or GED. Knowledge in blueprint reading, metals machinery, measuring devices, computer skills for CNC technology are needed. Specialized skills in machinery, certification in various positions and types of welding, and cutting of light and heavy metals can mean higher pay or steadier employment.
Where you can work:
Seventy-five percent of metal fabricators work in manufacturing; 11% work in computer and technical manufacturing. Sixty-six percent of welders work in manufacturing; 34% work in construction, oil and gas and other industries.
What you can earn:
Average salary ranges from $14.00-$35.00 per hour. Fabricators and certified welders at a Master Level earn $35.00-$50.00 per hour. Supervisory and management positions earn higher salaries.
Career outlook:
Metal workers and fabricators with specialized skills and certifications will continue to find employment, though it may be working as a temporary employee. Welding jobs will increase 5% over the next 10 years. Welders with skills, experience, and certifications will have little problem finding work.
Equipment/software you will learn to use:
Plasma Cam software, MasterCam software, CNC milling machine, horizontal lathe, hydraulic power shear, 12-foot press brake, and iron worker machinery.
Certifications or Licenses You May Earn While in High School:
- Metal Fabrication/Welding Technology Program Certificate
- American Welding Society Entry Level To Level II Certified Welder
- 10-hour OSHA Construction Safety Training
- Massachusetts Bridge Certified Welder
What kind of job can you get with this training?
Certified Massachusetts Bridge Welder, welder/fabricator, CNC plasma machine operators, layout fabricators, or oxy-acetylene burners.
With additional training/education, what jobs are available?
Supervisors, managers, quality inspectors, member of R & D team, prototype builder, welding engineer, instructor, welding business owner, boilermaker, or ironworker.
What you should know...
Students weld and fabricate from drawings and blueprints, using state-of-the-art equipment to industry-certified standards, making their skills transferable and valuable to many industries.
Recommended Course of Study
Grade 9
English
Foreign Language
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Physical Education
Pathways
1 Elective Course
Grade 10
English
Foreign Language
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Physical Education
Metal Fabrication/Welding Tech 1
1 Elective Course
Grade 11
English
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Physical Education
Metal Fabrication/Welding Tech 2
Grade 12
English
Social Studies
Physical Education
Metal Fabrication/Welding Tech 3
2 Elective Courses
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