Welding & Fabrication Engineering Technology
Welding and Fabrication Engineering Technology is structured to support welding and joining operations where engineers pass plans and projects to mid-management personnel who must carry out the planning, organization, and delivery of manufacturing projects. Emphasis is on developing skills needed to lead projects and interface with engineering and development teams. Students have the opportunity to prepare for careers in mid-management and supervisory positions, as well as technical positions, sales, service, or research.
Graduates of the Welding Technology associate degree (WA) can transfer into the Welding and Fabrication Engineering bachelor degree (BWE) without losing any credits.
Graduates have a diverse set of skills and abilities that could prepare them for employment in the natural gas industry. Read more...
Program Specs
- Application/Major Code: BWE – view in catalog
- School: Industrial & Engineering Technologies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science Degree (B.S.)
About the curriculum
Classes
View the classes you will be attending in the College Catalog.
Accreditation & Industry Connections
After graduation
Career Opportunities
List of jobs via the College Catalog.
Earnings
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, for example, median wages of engineers, all other were $$90,270 in May 2010. The middle 50 percent earned between $67,180 and $115,440. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $49,530, and the top 10 percent earned more than $138,610.
Additionally, Natural Gas Distribution welders annual mean wage was $59,230 as of May 2010. (source)
According to our most recent graduate survey the average starting salary for Welding & Fabrication Engineering Technology graduates range from approximately $50,000 to $55,000.
Industries with the highest published employment and wages for this occupation are:
| Industry | Employment | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Executive Branch (OES Designation) | 25,450 | $52.26 | $108,700 |
| Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services | 19,430 | $41.22 | $85,730 |
| Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing | 11,500 | $44.62 | $92,810 |
| Scientific Research and Development Services | 7,060 | $47.19 | $98,150 |
| Navigational, Measuring, Electromedical, and Control Instruments Manufacturing | 6,670 | $48.44 | $100,750 |
*Statistics reported in May 2010
Transfer Procedures
View general transfer procedures via the College Catalog.
The four-year BWE major provides a unique opportunity for students enrolled in the two-year WA major to continue their education and expand job skills in the welding industry. The first two years of both majors share a majority of the same courses, allowing for easy transfer into the four-year degree without loss of credits.
Tools, Uniforms & Supplies
Tools
Students should review the Welding Tools & Supplies to determine what tools and supplies they will need to purchase. The Welding department realizes that some students may not need to purchase the entire list of supplies. These students may contact the School Office for guidance in purchasing their supplies. The College Store can provide the complete kit.
Uniform
- Leather work shoes (safety toes optional)
- Safety glasses
- Welding helmet with #10 lens
- Welding goggles with #5 lens
- Leather arm and chest covers (bibs) or leather coat
- Welding gloves (SMAW & GTAW)
Uniforms and tools are available for purchase through The College Store.
Clubs & Activities
American Welding Society (AWS)
SkillsUSA Champions at Work
The purpose of SkillsUSA, a National vocational student organization, is to compete in more than 80 competitions in a variety of fields. Students can compete in the Welding competition. Regular SkillsUSA activities include chapter meetings, state and national conferences, fund raising, and community and college service.
View the entire student organizations listing or Greek Life listing.
Welding Advisory Committee
Advisory committees, which act as recommending bodies to the faculty and administration, consist of in-field professionals who act as partners in the development of curriculum. Their curricular and equipment advice as well as their industry connections and internship opportunities are invaluable to our students and to the growth of our institution.
