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Introduction to Welding

Introduction to Welding Processes prepares students for a career in production welding through hands-on training in Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) and Flux-Core Arc Welding (FCAW). Students learn to execute five basic joint types across all positions and material thicknesses, work with multiple transfer processes, and weld with stainless steel wire. All training aligns with American Welding Society (AWS) standards, giving students the opportunity to attempt an AWS certification upon completion.

  • Practice safety procedures for GMAW and FCAW processes
  • Identify and weld five basic joint types across all positions and material thicknesses
  • Perform lap, tee, and groove welds using short circuit, spray transfer, and pulse spray transfer
  • Weld with flux-core tubular wires and stainless steel wire in all positions
  • Understand constant voltage, wire feed systems, and shielding gas selection
  • Select the correct electrode using AWS suffix designations
  • Perform routine equipment maintenance
  • Produce smooth, consistent weld restarts
  • Work toward an American Welding Society (AWS) certification

Steel toes shoes required. Ivy Tech will supply metal and other lab equipment.

Graduates of this course are prepared to pursue entry-level roles including:

  • Production Welder in manufacturing and fabrication
  • Maintenance Welder in industrial and facilities settings
  • Tack Welder in assembly and structural fabrication
  • Welder Helper or Welding Assistant
  • Farm and Agricultural Equipment Repair

With experience and additional certifications, welders in Indiana go on to careers as structural welders, pipe welders, welding inspectors, and welding supervisors — some of the highest-paying trades roles in the state.

No prior welding experience required — just a willingness to learn and a commitment to safety.

Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Must be 18 or older
  • Basic math and reading skills

What to Wear — Every Day in the Lab

  • Steel-toed boots (required on day one)
  • Flame-resistant clothing — long sleeves and long pants
  • No synthetic fabrics (polyester, nylon) — they are a serious burn hazard

This workforce certification is available for free to qualifying students through the Next Level Jobs program. You are eligible to earn this free certification from Ivy Tech if you fulfill all of the following requirements:

  • You are an Indiana resident, and
  • You have a high school diploma or GED/High School Equivalency, and
  • You have not previously received an associate degree or higher (bachelor's, master's, etc.) and
  • You have not previously used Next Level Jobs/Workforce Ready Grant funding. 

Learn more about Next Level Jobs at Ivy Tech

Ivy Tech skills training classes do not earn you college credit on their own, but they may crosswalk into Ivy Tech's academic degree programs should you decide to pursue that route in the future. Speak with an advisor to learn more about getting credit for prior learning.