Welding Programs in Arlington, Texas

Becoming a Welder in Arlington, Texas

Are you considering a career as a welder in Arlington, Texas? This guide will walk you through the steps to become a certified welder, the available welding training programs, and the employment opportunities in the area. A welder is a skilled tradesperson who joins metal parts together using various welding techniques. There are multiple paths to becoming a welder, including formal education, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training.

About Arlington

Arlington, Texas, is a thriving city located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Known for its sports teams, amusement parks, and cultural landmarks, Arlington offers a dynamic environment for aspiring welders. For more information about the city, visit the City of Arlington’s official website.

Welding Training Programs in Arlington, Texas

If you’re looking to enroll in a welding program in Arlington, here are some local options:

1. Tarrant County College – Southeast Campus
   Located in the heart of Arlington, Tarrant County College offers a comprehensive welding technology program. The curriculum covers various welding techniques and prepares students for industry certifications. For more information, visit the Tarrant County College Welding Program page.

2. Lincoln College of Technology – Grand Prairie
   Just a short drive from Arlington, Lincoln College of Technology provides hands-on training in welding technology. The program focuses on practical skills and prepares students for the Certified Welder (CW) credential. Learn more at the Lincoln Tech Welding Program page.

3. Universal Technical Institute – Dallas/Fort Worth
   Located in nearby Irving, UTI offers a welding technology program that includes training in MIG, TIG, and stick welding. The program is designed to equip students with the skills needed for various welding certifications. Visit the UTI Welding Program page for details.

Welding Employment Opportunities in Arlington

Arlington hosts several companies and facilities that employ welders. Here are some major employers in the area:

1. General Motors Arlington Assembly
   Situated in East Arlington, the GM Arlington Assembly plant is a significant employer for welders, offering opportunities in automotive welding. Visit the GM Careers page for job openings.

2. Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control
   Located in the nearby city of Grand Prairie, Lockheed Martin offers opportunities for welders specializing in aerospace applications. Check out the Lockheed Martin Careers page for more information.

3. Bell Textron Inc.
   Based in Fort Worth, Bell Textron provides employment for welders in the aerospace industry, focusing on helicopter manufacturing. Visit the Bell Textron Careers page for current job listings.

Prerequisites for Welding Programs

To enroll in a welding program in Arlington, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

• Minimum Age: Most programs require students to be at least 18 years old.
• Education: A high school diploma or GED is generally required.
• Entrance Exams: Some programs may require entrance exams to assess basic math and reading skills.
• Safety Training: Basic safety training may be required before starting practical welding exercises.
• Physical Requirements: Good hand-eye coordination and physical stamina are essential for welding.

Welding Certification Options

In Arlington, Texas, aspiring welders must obtain certain certifications to advance their careers. Here are the key certifications and requirements:

• Certified Welder (CW) Credential: Obtainable through the American Welding Society (AWS). For more details, visit the AWS website.
• Steel Structures Welding Certification: Required for structural steel work, following the AWS D1.5 Bridge Welding Code.
• Miscellaneous Weld Qualification: For non-TxDOT certified welders capable of producing quality welds.

Additional certifications are available for specialized roles, such as commercial diving, pipefitting, aerospace, and automotive welding.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a welder in Arlington, Texas, is a rewarding journey filled with opportunities for growth and specialization. Whether you’re interested in automotive, aerospace, or structural welding, the right training and certification can set you on the path to success. Contact a local welding school today to begin your education and take the first step towards becoming a certified welder.

For more information on the job outlook for welders, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page.