Welder Technician, Certificate
Prairie State College’s Welder Technician Certificate program offers comprehensive training in welding processes, safety procedures, and metal fabrication techniques. Whether you’re starting your career or seeking to enhance your skills, this program provides the foundation needed to succeed in the welding industry.
What Can You Do with a Certificate in Welding?
With a Welder Technician Certificate, you can pursue employment as a professional
welder in various sectors such as construction, manufacturing, pipeline work, aerospace,
or repair services. You’ll be qualified to operate different welding equipment, interpret
technical drawings, and perform quality inspections. This certification can also serve
as a stepping stone toward further certifications or advanced roles like welding inspector,
supervisor, or metal fabricator, helping you build a durable and lucrative career
in the trades.
The demand for skilled welders remains strong across industries such as manufacturing,
construction, aerospace, and energy. Certified welders are essential for building
infrastructure, machinery, and structural components. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
projects steady growth in welding jobs, with competitive wages and opportunities for
advancement. As industries continue to require precision welding and fabrication,
certified welder technicians are well-positioned for a stable and rewarding career.
Suggested Curriculum
The curriculum prepares students to perform various welding jobs for maintenance manufacturing
machines. The training also prepares students to custom build devices by working from
machine drawings and specifications.
- AMATH 112 Applied Mathematics for the Skilled Trades
- CADMD 141 Technical Drafting I
- CADMD 243 Introduction to AutoCAD
- DRAFT 115 Blueprint Reading for Mechanical Trades
- MT 101 Machining Basics – Measurement, Materials, and Safety
- MT 220 Metallurgy – Ferrous
- WELD 115 Basic Arc Welding/Oxyfuel Welding
- WELD 215 Intermediate Arc Welding/SMAW, GMAW
- WELD 265 Advanced Arc Welding/GMAW
- ELEC 101 Fundamentals of Electricity
- ELEC 140 Industrial and Electrical Safety
- HYDR 101 Fundamentals of Hydraulics
- MT 102 Machining Job Planning, Benchwork, and Layout
- MT 221 Metallurgy – Nonferrous
- MILL 101 Industrial Maintenance Techniques I
- MT 290 Special Topics in Manufacturing Technology
- PHYSI 101 Conceptual Physics (P1 900L)
- PIPE 101 Fundamentals of Pipefitting
- WELD 290 Special Topics in Welding
- WELD 268 Advanced Independent Projects
Each college and university has its own major requirements and transfer policies. Consult the schools you are considering and a PSC advisor to discuss courses and their transferability.
Gainful Employment Disclosures - 2026
For more information about graduation rates, loan repayment rates, and post-enrollment earnings about this institution and other postsecondary institutions please click here: https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/
Welding Technician (APP.W.TCE)
This program is designed to be completed in 18 months.
This program will cost $5,250 if completed within normal time. There may be additional costs for living expenses. These costs were accurate at the time of posting, but may have changed.
Of the students who completed this program within normal time, the typical graduate leaves with $5,250 of debt.
Faculty Contact Information
Martin Wolfe
Associate Professor/Coordinator, Welding
Office: (708) 709-7807
Lab: (708) 709-3691
mwolfe@prairiestate.edu
Office: T-145
Lab: T-165
Prairie State College provides a comprehensive array of resources designed to foster student success and well-being. These include disability support services, health and safety protocols, career development counseling, and personal support. Academic assistance is readily available through tutoring, advising, and library services, while transfer advising and campus security ensure a safe and seamless college experience. Additionally, the college offers various financial aid options to help students achieve their educational objectives.
Do more with your Degree
Maximize your educational opportunities by exploring our Online programs and personalized
Academic Counseling. Discover how you can expand your credentials and successfully
transition to your next academic goal.
AcademicsOnline Learning
Experience flexible learning with Prairie State College’s online courses. Study from
anywhere at your own pace and achieve your goals with quality education and support.
Start today and advance your future on your schedule.
Student ResourcesAcademic Advising
Need guidance on your academic journey? Reach out to our dedicated academic advisors!
Whether you're choosing the right classes, planning your transfer, or exploring career
options, our advisors are here to support you every step of the way. Don't wait—contact
us today to stay on track and achieve your goals!
