Strike the Arc. Shape the World.
Every towering structure and powerful machine begins with a single spark.
Owens’ Welding Major, AAS program is an intensive two-year journey where you’ll master both the art and science of welding. We don’t just teach you how to weld—we develop professional fabricators and problem solvers. You’ll gain comprehensive training across all aspects of welding, positioning you to tackle everything from basic operations to advanced techniques on various metals and challenging situations.
Welding is a respected trade that builds the bridges, buildings and machines that power our world. This career lets you see and use what you create. Every day brings hands-on work, problem-solving challenges and the satisfaction of watching your skills transform into solid steel and finished projects.
What it takes to thrive as a welding professional:
- Attention to Detail: Precise, safe and high-quality welds—every time
- Manual Dexterity and Hand-Eye Coordination: Smooth, controlled work on welding projects of any type and complexity
- Problem-Solving Ability: Quick adaptation to material challenges and design issues
Small Classes. Expert Guidance.
At Owens, you have a team of dedicated, experienced professionals guiding you. In turn, your faculty will be supported by an Advisory Committee of local professionals.
Our instructors are experts who take pride in your success. Combined with our small class sizes, you’ll get one-on-one mentorship and precise technical feedback tailored to your goals.
Award Type
Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
Department
Department of Skilled Trades
Required Credit Hours
63-64
An Inside Look
163
Students enrolled in welding programs at Owens
14:1
Small cohort and classes foster personalized mentorship and support
86%
Job placement rate for Owens grads within two years
Sparks Fly. Metals Mold.
You’ll start with fundamentals in engineering and integrated systems, machining, mechanical print reading, blueprint reading and core welding processes, while building essential skills in applied industrial math, communication and critical thinking.
Master industry-standard techniques including Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/MIG), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) and pipe welding—progressing from basic to advanced positions. You’ll also learn the science behind the trade through materials science, applied industrial physics, OSHA general safety, fundamentals of computing and industrial psychology.
In your final semesters, you’ll develop professional skills through small-group communication and data analysis for business, plus customize your training with electives in welding specialties, CAD, machining or skilled trades. You’ll complete the program with certification-focused courses in plate welding and pipe welding.
Students who excel in welding may take Owens’ plate or pipe welding pre-certification tests. The I-CAR Automotive Steel GMAW (MIG) Welding Qualification Test (WQT) is also available for those seeking automotive welding certification.
Student Learning Outcomes
Student will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of industry standards for safety and compliance.
- Demonstrate the proper use of manufacturing equipment.
- Understand and apply proper techniques for analyzing and producing drawings.
- Demonstrate an understanding of welding processes, codes, and procedures.
- Differentiate manufacturing processes and their applicability.
Career Outcomes
Upon graduation, you’ll hold an associate degree, ready to sit for American Welding Society (AWS) certification exams and enter the field as a competent, confident welding professional. Welders are in high demand nationwide, with opportunities to earn competitive wages and overtime across multiple industries.
Work as a welder, maintenance worker, iron worker, steel worker, sheet metal worker, boilermaker, plumber or pipefitter in thriving industries including manufacturing, construction, automotive, aerospace, shipbuilding, and oil and gas. From local shops to global projects, welding offers flexibility—whether you prefer steady work close to home or the opportunity to travel.
With additional experience, you can advance to specialized positions such as welding inspector, foreman or supervisor.
Explore the employment data to understand trends in our area.
In Their Words
“Owens is a great place to gain a lot of knowledge and experience for a lifetime.”
Austen Nissen, STEM grad, ’22
Getting Started at Owens
Begin your high-quality education at an affordable price today!
Enrollment is easy—just fill out an online admissions application to get started. We’ll ask you to submit your transcripts for course placement and college credit.
Upon acceptance, schedule a meeting with your admissions advisor to register for classes. Next, attend an on-campus orientation and meet with your student financial services advisor to discuss ways to pay for college.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE). For more information concerning accreditation standards, contact the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE), 310 W. Lake St., Suite 111, Elmhurst, IL 60126. phone: (630) 433-4514 | web: atmae.org.