The Welding Apprenticeship Program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide apprentices with the skills and knowledge required for a successful career in welding. The program is divided into three levels, each focusing on different aspects of welding. Below is an overview of the key courses and content areas covered in each level:
Level 1: Fundamental Skills and Techniques
- Introduction to Welding: Basics of welding, safety protocols, and personal protective equipment (PPE) usage.
- Blueprint Reading and Welding Symbols: Understanding and interpreting welding blueprints and symbols.
- Welding Theory I: Principles of welding processes, metallurgy, and materials science.
- Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) Practical I: Basic SMAW skills, electrode selection, and application.
- Gas Shielded Semi-Automatic Welding Practical I: Introduction to Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) and Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW).
- Thermal Cutting Practices: Techniques in oxy-fuel cutting, plasma cutting, and safety practices.
Level 2: Advanced Welding Practices
- Welding Theory II: Advanced concepts in welding metallurgy and welding process variations.
- SMAW Practical II: Advanced techniques in SMAW, including various positions and joints.
- Semi-Automatic Welding Practical II: Advanced GMAW and FCAW techniques, including equipment setup and maintenance.
- Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) Practical I: Introduction to GTAW, focusing on thin materials and precision welding.
- Blueprint Reading/Fitting: Advanced blueprint reading skills with a focus on complex structures and fittings.
Level 3: Specialization and Mastery
- Fitting and Fabrication: Techniques in metal fabrication, layout, and pattern development.
- Quality and Inspection: Advanced quality control methods, inspection techniques, and codes.
- GTAW Practical II and Plasma Arc Welding (PAW): Advanced GTAW and PAW skills, focusing on different materials and specialized applications.
- Automatic and Semi-Automatic Processes: Mastery of automated welding processes and equipment.
- SMAW Practical III: Mastery of SMAW in various complex applications and environments.
Additional Components:
- Practical Assessments: Hands-on assessments to evaluate skills in various welding processes.
- Safety Training: Ongoing focus on safety in all aspects of welding.
- Workplace Readiness: Preparation for working in a professional welding environment, including communication and teamwork skills.
These courses are designed to ensure that apprentices are well-rounded in their skills, capable of performing a variety of welding tasks, and prepared for the challenges of the welding profession. The program's structure allows for incremental skill development, ensuring a solid foundation is built before moving onto more advanced topics.
