Jack Lowe, Applied Welding Program Coordinator
(304)376-9587
jlowe@pierpont.edu
Program Purpose
The CAS Applied Welding Degree is designed to prepare students to enter employment or upgrade skills for advancement in various areas of the welding field. The curriculum focuses on the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for a successful career as a welder. Welders work for a number of industries, including construction companies, mining companies, shipbuilding companies, aerospace companies, and oil and gas companies.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the AAS Advanced Welding Professional degree, graduates will be able to do the following within the welding industry:
- Demonstrate basic skills in SMAW, and GMAW, FCAW processes
- Demonstrate proficiency in written and oral communication and in math/quantitative literacy skills appropriate for the certificate degree and for worksite expectations.
Opportunities
The CAS Applied Welding Degree is geared towards those who are seeking a career in high demand and highly technical career field offering hourly earnings of $9/hour up to $20./hour and beyond. According to EMSI Burning Glass, in 2020 West Virginia was one of the top 6 states for welding. The national median annual wage in 2021 for advanced welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers was $47,010 or approximately $22.60 per hour. (US Department of Labor Data). Employment of welders, cutters, solderers and brazers is projected to grow 2 percent from 2021 to 2031, Despite limited employment growth, about 47,600 openings for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Most of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as retiring. The largest employers of welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers were Manufacturing and Specialty Trade contractors.
Notice to All Students
Students interested in careers in this industry should be aware that the following working conditions are typical: Welders and cutters may work outdoors in all types of weather, or indoors, sometimes in a confined area designed to contain sparks and glare. They may work on a scaffold or platform high off the ground. In addition, they may have to lift heavy objects and work in awkward positions, such as overhead, while bending, stooping, or standing. Jobs in this field require mental and physical fitness. Employment will always depend on passing a skills test, drug test, and background check. Frequently, there are strict limitations on tobacco and cell phone use. Travel is often required as a condition of employment.
Return to: