Go to work in many industries as a specialist in one of the most highly paid skilled trades.
What is Welding Technology?
If you admire the creativity of architecture and want to be part of creating something lasting, a welding career might be the perfect fit for you. Somerset Community College (SCC) offers a Welding program that provides students with the skills and experience needed to start a successful career. With job opportunities for welders expected to grow in the coming years, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, now is a great time to begin this exciting career path.
SCC’s Welding program is a two-year course of study that trains students in various welding techniques, including shielded metal arc welding, gas metal arc welding, and gas tungsten arc welding. Throughout the program, students can earn up to eighteen certificates, a diploma, and an Associate in Applied Science degree. Welders use heat to join pieces of metal together, creating strong and permanent bonds. These skills are used in a variety of industries, such as shipbuilding, construction, automotive manufacturing, and other fields that rely on skilled welders.

Getting Started
What are my degree, diploma, and certificate options?
- Arc Cutter - Certificate
- Gas Metal Arc Welder - Certificate
- Gas Tungsten Arc Welder - Certificate
- Gas Welder - Certificate
- GMAW Pipeline Welder - Certificate
- GMAW Tack Welder - Certificate
- GMAW Welder Helper - Certificate
- GMAW Welding Automation - Certificate
- GTAW Pipeline Welder - Certificate
- GTAW Tack Welder - Certificate
- GTAW Welder Helper - Certificate
- Production Line Welder - Certificate
- SENSE Level 1 - Entry Welders - Certificate
- Shielded Metal Arc Welder - Certificate
- SMAW Pipeline Welder - Certificate
- SMAW Tack Welder - Certificate
- SMAW Welder Helper - Certificate
- Welder Helper General - Certificate
How Do I Pay For This?
Worry no more. With the lowest tuition in Kentucky, financial aid options, and a helping hand to guide you through the application process, SCC has you covered. SCC will help you reach your goals at a price that won't break the bank.
What Else Do I Need to Know?
Additional Information
This program is offered at the Laurel and Somerset Campuses.
Courses in blueprint reading, shop mathematics, and mechanical drawing are also part of the instruction at SCC. Knowledge of computers is gaining importance, especially for welding machine operators, who are becoming responsible for the programming of computer-controlled machines, including robots and CNC cutting systems. Additionally, SCC is now offering pipe welding classes for students to gain knowledge and experience in the pipe welding field of study.
Length of Program
You can earn an associate in applied science degree in two years if you maintain full-time status.
This information should not be considered a substitute for the KCTCS Catalog. You should always choose classes in collaboration with your faculty advisor to ensure that you meet all degree requirements.
