Welding Technician

Prepare for a career in welding with our 150-hour workforce program. Learn in-demand skills through augmented reality, classroom instruction, and shop time. Study safety, metallurgy, blueprint reading, and more.

150 Hours

Varies by Location

In-Person

$3,000

Funding Available

Gain Industry Skills and Credentials

Earn industry-recognized Miller certifications in MIG welding (GMAW), TIG welding (GTAW), and Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW). Prepare to take American Welding Society (AWS) certification tests and certifications, opening doors to a rewarding welding career.

Careers in Welding

Welding is a vital skill in industries like construction, manufacturing, and automotive repair. There is a strong demand for skilled welders across the region and nationwide. Our Welding Technician program was developed in partnership with local industry experts to meet regional workforce demands.

A career as a welder offers strong earning potential, with a median annual wage of $51,000 (or $24/hour) as of May 2024 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

After finishing our Welding Technician program, you’ll be qualified for manufacturing careers such as:
- Assembler
- Fabricator
- Pipefitter
- Production Welder
- Maintenance Technician
- Metal Sculpture Artist
- Sheet Metal Worker
What You'll Learn
- Learn industry-standard welding techniques.
- Develop safe work habits following shop safety procedures.
- Practice welding in multiple positions.
- Interpret welding blueprints and technical drawings.
- Understand how different metals react to heat and welding.
- Prepare for nationally recognized certification exams.
Program Costs

The Welding Technician program costs $3,000. This includes all programming, books, supplies, and certification exam fees. Many participants can reduce the out-of-pocket cost of this program by applying for county funding.

Workforce program costs are subject to change. Prices reflect 2026 rates. Confirm your eligibility for funding to determine your final cost.

Funding Opportunities

Funding may be available through your local county workforce office. Our Welding Technician program qualifies for the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which provides up to $3,000 to job seekers participating in training for in-demand industries.

WIOA funding is administered through Finger Lakes Works. Residents of Ontario, Seneca, Wayne, and Yates Counties can find information about their Finger Lakes Works center online. Residents of other counties may contact their local county workforce office for further assistance.

Finger Lakes Works

Apply Now

Submit a workforce application to get started. Once we receive your information, we'll contact you with more details about the program and available funding options.

Workforce Application

Up to 100%

covered with eligible funding

150

hours of training

program graduates (since fall 2024)

$24/hr

national average wage

Program Schedule and Learning Format

Complete 150 hours of welding training through a mix of classroom learning, augmented reality, and shop-based training.

Begin with instructor-led sessions that cover welding theory, safety procedures, and blueprint reading.
Practice skills in a virtual environment with augmented reality welding simulators.
Transition to live training in a welding shop with professional-grade equipment.
Receive personalized feedback and guidance from experienced instructors.

Upcoming Welding Technician Courses

Program sessions may change based on interest and enrollment. Our workforce team will work with you to review your options.

Dates (2026)	Location	Weekly Schedule	Meeting Time
May 19 - Aug. 14	Newark Campus Center	Mon, Wed, Fri	8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
May 19 - Aug. 14	Canandaigua Campus	Mon, Wed, Fri	5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Late Summer (TBD)	Coach and Equipment Penn Yan	TBD	TBD

Augmented Reality Welding Practice

Our welding program features a cutting-edge welding simulator, providing a safe and realistic training environment. Build confidence in your skills before stepping into the shop later in the program.