Welding Fabrication Technology
Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS)The Welding Fabrication Technology Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program provides training in all aspects of welding and fabrication operations, including blueprint reading, planning operation sequence, applying geometry, heat effects and metal properties, layout, positioning, fitting, welding and material handling.
Graduates are prepared for positions such as welders, fabricators, shop supervisors, estimators and shop owners in boatbuilding, automotive, machine fabrication, commercial fishing gear, piping systems, and building construction and maintenance. This program prepares students to pass welder certification tests through the Washington Association of Building Officials (WABO).
Estimated Length of Completion
| Degree | Quarters | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS) | Full Time: 5 to 6 Part Time: Part Time Option Not Available |
92.0 - 96.0 |
Program lengths are estimates, not guarantees. For the most current program information, please check with the program contact.
Students must meet with an advisor for entry into this program. A placement test is required to ensure language and computational skills are sufficient for program success.
- Use equipment and tools properly.
- Take personal responsibility for skills, safety and production.
- Take responsibility for one's own development of skills, observe safety procedures and produce workmanship samples.
- Diagnose and cure common welding defects.
- Demonstrate safe operation of oxyacetylene equipment.
- Communicate and work in groups to complete minimum skills activities.
- Tack, production weld, and finish as required for assigned activities.
- Demonstrate consistent safe work habits including citizenship.
- Demonstrate consistent quality workmanship per industry standards.
- Formulate and communicate a plan of action for assigned fabrication and maintenance projects.
- Speak and write effectively to communicate formulated action plans for activities and projects.
- Select and demonstrate various joining processes.
- Identify and demonstrate common power tools, and accessories.
- Read and interpret fabrication blueprints using a systematic process.
- Perform basic layouts using template paper and patterns.
- Estimate type, quantity, costs, weight, of a welded fabrication from information on a blueprint.
- Describe and demonstrate safe and proper use of each type of welding equipment.
- Identify major parts, set up and adjust the press brake for a variety of forming operations.
- Demonstrate proper transport, set up, adjustment and use of GTAW and oxyacetylene equipment.
- Demonstrate techniques and devices-for controlling heat effect during welding.
- Recognize, inspect and document proper applications of welding processes.
- Demonstrate proficiency of maintenance and repair operations using welding and joinery procedures.
- Describe employer expectations for employees within the welding industry.
- Use current industry technology to test and repair welding related equipment.
- Aerospace Welding Technician
- Computer-controlled machine tool operator / metal and plastic
- Construction Welding Technician
- Estimator & Shop Owner
- Manufacturing Welding Technician
- Maritime Shipyard Welding Technician
- Metal Art Sculptor
- Railroad Welding Technician
- Repair Shop Supervisor
- Transportation Equipment Welding Technician
- Trucking Company Welding Technician
- Welding / Soldering / and Brazing Machine Setter / Operator / and Tender
Job tests this program will prepare you for:
- Welder certification tests through the Washington Association of Building Officials (WABO)
For current employment and wage estimates, please visit the following online resources and search for the relevant occupational term:
All costs are estimates and are not guarantees. For the most current program information, check with an adviser by calling 206.934.5391. There are additional costs for books and supplies. Each student is responsible for the purchase of certain supplies and required tools before the instruction begins.
Full Time Cost
| Quarter | Credits | Resident | Non-Resident | International |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 20 | $1,757.22 | $1,937.98 | $3,822.76 |
| 2 | 20 | $1,757.22 | $1,937.98 | $3,822.76 |
| 3 | 20 | $1,757.22 | $1,937.98 | $3,822.76 |
| 4 | 18 | $1,723.96 | $1,904.72 | $3,731.18 |
| 5 | 12 | $1,357.84 | $1,533.08 | $3,317.42 |
The following fee is associated with the program:
- Books and supplies: $2,119
- Welding WABD Certification Fee: $90.00
- Welding Materials Fee: $18.00/credit (2014-2015)
- Community Technology Access: $20.00/quarter
- Student ID Card: $5.00
- Transportation Management Plan: $15.00/quarter
- Universal Technology Fee: $3.00/credit
Quarter Start Dates: Welding classes begin in Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer.
Students may still enroll in the program during other quarters to begin their related academic classes (Not required if a student has already completed these classes. Students must provide an official transcript.).
Class Times: Check the online class schedule. Students will meet during the class timeframe listed, however in order to maintain safe distances in on-site labs students will be grouped and have specified times on campus. Please check with your instructor for more information.
Other related academic classes are required that meet outside of these class times. These classes can be completed online and/or in-person depending on availability. Check with an advisor regarding when to take related academic classes.