Welding Programs in Overland Park, Kansas
Becoming a Welder in Overland Park, Kansas
Are you considering a career as a welder in Overland Park, Kansas? This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a professional welder, including education paths, training programs, and certification options. Welders are skilled tradespeople who join metal parts using various welding techniques. With the right training and certification, you can embark on a rewarding career in this essential industry.
About Overland Park
Overland Park is a thriving city located in the heart of Johnson County, Kansas. Known for its family-friendly neighborhoods and robust economic opportunities, Overland Park offers a great environment for aspiring welders. The city is home to several parks, shopping centers, and cultural attractions. For more information about Overland Park, visit the official city website.
Welding Training Programs in Overland Park, Kansas
If you’re looking to start your welding career in Overland Park, there are several local schools offering comprehensive welding programs:
- Johnson County Community College (JCCC)
- Located in Overland Park, JCCC offers a robust welding program that includes hands-on training and preparation for AWS certification. The program covers various welding techniques and safety practices. For more details, visit the JCCC Welding Program page.
- Barton Community College
- Although not in Overland Park, Barton Community College offers a well-regarded welding program in Great Bend, Kansas, approximately 200 miles away. The program includes AWS certification as part of the curriculum.
- Salina Area Technical College
- Located about 150 miles from Overland Park, Salina Area Technical College provides a comprehensive welding program with a focus on practical skills and AWS certification preparation.
Welding Employment Opportunities in Overland Park
Overland Park hosts several companies and facilities where welders can find employment opportunities:
- Garmin International
- Situated in the Cedar Creek neighborhood, Garmin is a leading technology company with opportunities for welders in manufacturing and product development. Visit their careers page for more information.
- Black & Veatch
- Located in the Corporate Woods area, Black & Veatch is a global engineering and construction company offering various welding positions. Check their employment opportunities for current openings.
- Honeywell
- With facilities in nearby Kansas City, Honeywell offers positions for welders in manufacturing and assembly. Explore their careers page for job listings.
Prerequisites for Welding Programs
To enroll in a welding program in Overland Park, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
- A high school diploma or GED
- Minimum age of 18 years
- Completion of any required entrance exams
- Basic safety training
- Physical ability to perform welding tasks
Welding Certification Options
Certification is a crucial step in becoming a welder. In Kansas, the American Welding Society (AWS) certification is highly recommended. Many local programs include AWS SENSE Level 1 and Level 2 certifications. Additionally, for those working on Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) projects, KDOT Welder Qualification is necessary. For more information, visit the AWS website.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a welder in Overland Park, Kansas, is a promising choice. With the right training and certification, you can secure a fulfilling job in this essential field. Contact a local school today to learn more about their welding programs and take the first step towards your new career.
For more information on the job outlook for welders, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page.