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Are you a passionate craftsman who enjoys working by hand?
Welding may suit you better!
The welding industry is forecasted to grow consistently in upcoming years as many industries are booming and are looking for skilled welders.
Choosing a career in welding is a smart move for your future. With rising demand, you can anticipate a lucrative salary.
This skill trades does not require a degree.
An associate degree in welding may offer an advantage; however, training certificates and a high school diploma can already give an entry-level role.
If you’re in Lexington, KY, here are a few schools that offer welding programs near you.
1 Bluegrass Community and Technical College
Bluegrass Community and Technical College is among the 16 institutions within the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS).
It was established in 2005 after merging Lexington Community College and Central Kentucky Technical College.
Its commitment is to create academic success within the region they are serving.
BCTC offers over 40 areas of study, leading to associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates.
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges accredits them.
About The Welding Program
BCTC’s Welding Program is created to offer students a harmonious blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application.
The Program’s structure progressively builds students’ skills, preparing them for more advanced courses and real-world challenges.
Embracing modern technology and computer skills equips students with the evolving demands and opportunities in the welding industry.
The Program includes the following:
- Oxy-Fuel Systems and Lab
- Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) and related labs
- Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) and associated labs
- Basic Welding, Blueprint Reading, and labs for both
- Writing, Communications, Computer Fundamentals, and an Introduction to Art
- Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) and its labs
- Weld Certification and its lab
- Practicum, and many more, ensuring a comprehensive learning journey for every student.
Upon completion, students will earn certificates after passing the exam given by their Workforce Solutions department.
Address: 470 Cooper Dr, Lexington, KY 40506
2 Southside Technical Center
Southside Technical Center is located in Lexington, Kentucky.
It is a public school under the Fayette County Public Schools system—established as the Southside Vocational School in 1980.
Over the years, they renamed it to its current name.
Its primary goal is to relay vocational education to students, preparing them for various paths – from apprenticeships and university education to direct career entry.
They are committed to creating a collaborative community, ensuring every student achieves high levels and is ready to shine in a global society.
About The Welding Program
The Welding Program at Southside Technical Center prepares students from grades 10 to 12.
It has an intensive learning of industrial welding and cutting techniques, readying students for a promising career in the manufacturing industry.
The program covers the following scopes:
- Shielded Metal Arc Welding
- Cutting Processes
- Groove Welds with Lab
- Oxy-Fuel Systems
- Gas Tungsten Arc Welding
- Gas Metal Arc Welding
- GMAW with Groove
- Blueprint Reading
Upon successful completion, students can earn KY DOT certifications: 3G, 4G, 3GU, 4GU, AWS Certification 2F, and OSHA 10 certification.
Address: 1800 Harrodsburg Road Lexington, KY 40504
Schools Summary Table
| Rank | School | |
|---|---|---|
|
#1 | Bluegrass Community and Technical College |
|
#2 | Southside Technical Center |
Read the full guide: How to Become a Certified Welder
Welding Schools by City
Welding Schools by State