The Associate of Technical Studies degree in welding and fabrication technology prepares students for careers in the manufacturing sector. Welding is a hands-on profession that requires specific knowledge and skills to join metals. Welding is used in products such as cars, ships, buildings, bridges, and more. People who go into this field learn industry-wide techniques such as stick, MIG, TIG, and flux-coed arc welding as well as oxyfuel cutting, welding and braze welding. Some may go on to learn additional techniques if they choose to specialize in any number of areas, such as motorsports welding.
Those interested in advancing their skills and improving their credentials have several ways to earn the Associate of Technical Studies degree in Welding and Fabrication Technology at Lakeland.
The first option consists of a partnership that allows students to take welding classes at both Lakeland and Lincoln Electric, and then complete the other classes required for the associate degree online. For 15 weeks, students take Weld Shop Fundamentals (WELD 1020) on Lakeland's campus and, at the same time, participate in Lincoln Electric's Comprehensive Welding Program at their training facility in Cleveland. This option combines an onsite training element with the convenience of completing the rest of the required courses at home in an online format. It is particularly well suited for out-of-state students, and Lincoln Electric can provide a list of lodging facilities for the 15-week portion if needed.
Click here for information on the Lincoln Electric Welding School
Another option is for students interested in taking all of their classes at Lakeland. Students take the welding classes at the college along with the other courses required to attain the associate degree, such as English, mathematics and business. Those classes can either be taken online or on Lakeland's campus in a traditional classroom setting.
For students already holding welding certificates required in the degree, Lakeland can offer college credit for those skills toward an associate degree through a process called credit by certification. The remaining courses required for the degree can be taken either on campus or online.
For all of the options, students may transfer their credits to colleges and universities to further their education.
Welding and Fabrication Technology
Job Outlook
The state of Ohio has the third largest manufacturing capabilities in the country. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in the welding industry is expected to grow 15 percent through 2020. The defense industry and the nation's aging infrastructure are expected to drive growth in the field. The program at Lakeland was developed, in part, because of the current demand and the growing concern over impending baby boomer retirements expected in the coming years. This is expected to result in an even greater shortage of qualified welders throughout the many industries that rely on professional, skilled welders.
Career Opportunities
Students at Lakeland not only earn a degree, but are also prepared to take the national certification exams that many employers require. Upon certification, students can apply to companies anywhere in the country or the world that have job openings in the welding field.