Welding Technology

Bill Alexander, Ph.D.
Program Director, Industrial & Automation
balexander@wc.edu
817-598-8933

Welding is a highly skilled trade, and there is a significant demand for welders in many industries, including manufacturing, construction, and automotive. As infrastructure continues to expand, so does the need for skilled welders to build and repair bridges, buildings, pipelines, and other structures.

Welding is both an art and a science regarding creativity and problem-solving skills. Welders must be able to read blueprints and plans, interpret technical drawings, and use their creativity to design and build structures. Welders can work in a variety of settings and industries, including construction, manufacturing, and repair.

Weatherford College's Welding Technology program provides knowledge, skills, and training in SMAW (Stick), Mig, and Tig processes, including oxy/fuel and plasma cutting in support of industry certification through American Welding Society.

Degrees and Certificates

Course Descriptions

WLDG 1200: Introduction to Welding

Class Program
Welding Technology
Credits 2 Lecture Hours 1 Lab Hours 2
CIP
48.0508

Equipment used in oxy-fuel and arc welding. Includes cutting of ferrous metals. Emphasizes welding and cutting safety and basic welding processes.

WLDG 1313: Intro to Blueprint Reading for Welders

Class Program
Welding Technology
Credits 3 Lecture Hours 1 Lab Hours 2
CIP
48.0508

A study of industrial blueprints. Emphasis placed on terminology, symbols, graphic description, and welding processes. Includes systems of measurement and industry standards. Also includes interpretation of plans and drawings used by industry to facilitate field application and production. Will define terms and abbreviations; interpret views, lines, dimensions, detail drawings and welding symbols; identify structural shapes; demonstrate the proper use of measuring devices; and calculate dimensions.

WLDG 1327: Welding Codes and Standards

Class Program
Welding Technology
Credits 3 Lecture Hours 2 Lab Hours 2
CIP
48.0508

An in-depth study of welding codes and their development in accordance with structural standards, welding processes, destructive and nondestructive test methods.

WLDG 1435: Introduction to Pipe Welding

Class Program
Welding Technology
Credits 4 Lecture Hours 3 Lab Hours 2
CIP
48.0508

An introduction to welding of pipe using the shielded metal arc welding process (SMAW), including electrode selection, equipment setup, and safe shop practices. Emphasis on various welding positions and electrodes.

WLDG 1453: Intermediate Layout & Fabrications

Class Program
Welding Technology
Credits 4 Lecture Hours 2 Lab Hours 2
CIP
48.0508

An advanced course in layout and fabrication related to the welding industry. Major emphasis on blueprint reading, identifying welding symbols and codes, fabrication and fit, and welding/processes

WLDG 2388: Internship

Class Program
Welding Technology
Credits 3 Lab Hours 24
CIP
48.0508

A work-based learning experience that enables the student to apply specialized occupational theory, skills, and concepts. A learning plan is developed by the college and the employer. The student must have at least 8 work hours per week. Student is required to obtain appropriate paid or unpaid employment.

WLDG 2406: Intermediate Pipe Welding

Class Program
Welding Technology
Credits 4 Lecture Hours 3 Lab Hours 2
CIP
48.0508

A comprehensive course on the welding of pipe using the shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) and/or other processes. Welds will be done using various positions. Topics covered include electrode selection, equipment setup, and safe shop practices.