Welding

Train to become a certified welder

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why become a welder? 

    Opportunity! Welders are in high demand in the Bay Area. You can work for yourself, in your own business, or work in a team in the construction, manufacturing or utilities industries. With additional training, experienced welders can advance to become welding inspectors and technicians.

  • What types of jobs do graduates of LMC's welding programs obtain?

    Our graduates have various career choices. They include careers in the fabrication of buildings and bridges; petrochemical maintenance, repair and retrofitting; railroad maintenance; underwater welding, shipyard welding; construction; automobile body repair; and more. Organizations such as Central Costa County Sanitary District, , Bay Ship and Yacht, Siemens Mobility and local construction unions recruit our graduates because of their highly desired knowledge and skills.

  • I'm new to welding - what classes do I start with?

    The best place to start is:

    Basic Arc Welding Theory (WELD 10) 

    Basic Arc Welding Practice (WELD 11)

     They will give you an opportunity to learn all about welding and how it is done.

  • How long does it take to complete the Welding Certificate of Achievement program?
     You can determine your own pace for completing the certificate or the degree. The Certificate of Achievement can be completed in 2 years, including summers.
  • What if I'm only available in the day or evening? 
     The majority of the courses in LMC's Welding Program are offered during the day, evening and weekends. This allows the flexibility for working students to attend LMC at a time that fits into their schedule.
  •  How much does the program cost?

    Total expenses for tuition, textbooks, and protective safety equipment average $2900 - $3300 for the Certificate Program.  

    Enrollment fee is $46 per unit for California residents; additional $290 per unit for non-residents. (visit the tuition and fees page for more information)

    Textbooks for each course will need to be purchased. The LMC Bookstore will stock books for each course immediately before each course begins.

    All welding students are required to have their own personal protective safety equipment that will be discussed the first day of each lab - average protective safety equipment expense: $300 to $400.  

  • What personal protective equipment (PPE) and gear will I need?

     All welding students are required to have their own personal protective equipment that will be discussed the first day of each lab-average protective safety equipment expense: $300 to $400.

    View this image of PPE and where it can be purchased.

     ppe 7-23

    ppe vendors 7-23

     

     

     

  •  Does the college provide financial assistance?
     There are many forms of financial aid available to students attending LMC. Grants, loans and scholarships top the list of options. Our Financial Aid Office provides information and support to help you navigate through the application process. The Scholarship Office is located in the Financial Aid Office for convenient, centralized access with our financial aid experts. www.losmedanos.edu/financialaid