Welders are in demand in various industries, such as shipbuilding, pipeline development, aerospace, automotive, construction, and more.
When there is metal fusion involved, a skilled welder is in need.
If you choose a welding career, you will always have a stable job with lucrative income benefits.
With proficiency in welding, you can choose your preferred industry, desired location, and target income.
However, you have to possess the skills that the industry needs by acquiring certificates or diplomas in welding schools or training centers.
If you’re in Lafayette, LA, check out this nearby school to start your welding journey!
1 South Louisiana Community College
South Louisiana Community College (SLCC) was established in 1997 under the Act of 1369 in Louisiana’s regular legislative session.
It serves the Acadiana region with eight civil parishes, including Lafayette, St. Martin, St. Landry, St. Mary, Iberia, Vermilion, and Evangeline.
It is also a member of the University of Louisiana System.
SLCC offers over 50 programs, including technical diplomas, certificates, and associate degrees.
It was established as a comprehensive and multi-public campus two-year institution providing outstanding educational opportunities for students.
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) accredits South Louisiana Community College.
It’s a commission institution in the country that accredits degree-granting.
About The Welding Program
SLCC Welding Program is a comprehensive training.
It equips students with hands-on skills in welding techniques ranging from oxyfuel cutting to advanced gas tungsten arc welding.
Students not only learn theories but also apply them in real-life scenarios.
The program has an Associate of Applied Science ( Technical studies in Welding and a Technical Diploma in Welding, both Fall and Spring classes.
The program covers the following welding processes:
- GTAW (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding) (TIG)
- FCAW (Flux-Cored Arc Welding)
- GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding) (MIG)
- SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding) (Stick)
- Oxyfuel Cutting and Carbon Arc Cutting
- Plasma arc cutting
- Welding symbols
- Blueprint reading and more…
Upon completion, students can earn NCCER credentials, including NCCER Core, NCCER Welding Level 1, and Level 2, which helps them position themselves in the welding industry.
If you already have experience in welding and want to enhance your skills, you can also avail their flexible courses ranging from basic, intermediate, and advanced welding techniques.
Address: 1101 Bertrand Drive, Lafayette, LA 70506
2 W.D. & Mary Baker Smith Career Center
The W.D. & Mary Baker Smith Career Center is an annex of high schools in the Lafayette Parish School System.
It’s a public education institution for PreK-12 grades, one of the largest school districts in Louisiana.
It serves over 30,000 students with more than 4,000 employees.
The institution aims to provide the best education for all students to be competitive globally.
WDMBSCC is a technical education that provides hands-on experience in automotive tech, automotive paint & body, culinary, cosmetology, HVAC, electrical, medical, machinery, and welding technology.
Its instructors are certified and highly skilled professionals who will nurture students to meet the industry’s standard performance.
About The Welding Program
The Career Center’s Welding Program offers a comprehensive approach to the welding industry.
It blends theoretical knowledge and real-world experience.
Students learn the essentials of welding and are exposed to the industry’s perspective, hands-on training, and continuing education avenues.
The program has three courses: the Welding I, II, and III.
The course highlights the following:
- Welding I: Covers Occupational Orientation, Safety, Cutting Processes, Shielded Metal Arc Welding, Electrical Fundamentals, and Construction Math.
- Welding II: Focuses on advanced Shielded Metal Arc Welding, Metallurgy, and Symbols.
- Welding III: Encompasses Gas Metal Arc Welding, Gas Tungsten Arc Welding, Flux Cored Arc Welding, and Manufacturing Procedures.
The course is open to all 11th and 12th graders, and students must have heat tolerance.
Upon completion, students will earn the Carpenter International Training Fund (CITF) credentials in both Basic (Level 1) and Advanced (Level 2) categories.
Address: 200 18th Street Lafayette, LA 70501
Schools Summary Table
Rank | School | |
---|---|---|
#1 | South Louisiana Community College | |
#2 | W.D. & Mary Baker Smith Career Center |
Read the full guide: How to Become a Certified Welder