Welding Programs in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Becoming a Welder in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

If you’re considering a career as a welder in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, you’re in the right place. Welders are skilled tradespeople who join metal parts together using various welding techniques. This guide will walk you through the steps to become a welder in Milwaukee, including the different educational paths, training programs, and certification options available to you.

About Milwaukee

Milwaukee, located on the western shore of Lake Michigan, is Wisconsin’s largest city and a hub for manufacturing and industry. Known for its rich history in brewing and its diverse cultural scene, Milwaukee offers a unique blend of urban and natural attractions. You can learn more about the city by visiting the official Milwaukee website.

Welding Training Programs in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee offers several excellent options for those looking to pursue welding training:

1. Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC)
   • Location: Downtown Milwaukee
   • Program: MATC offers a Welding Fundamentals certificate program that includes instruction in shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) and gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), as well as blueprint reading skills. This program is designed to equip students with the foundational skills needed for a career in welding.
   • MATC Welding Program
2. Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC)
   • Location: Pewaukee, WI (approximately 20 miles west of Milwaukee)
   • Program: WCTC provides a comprehensive welding program that covers various welding processes, including gas metal arc welding (GMAW) and robotic welding. The program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the welding industry.
   • WCTC Welding Program
3. Gateway Technical College
   • Location: Racine, WI (approximately 30 miles south of Milwaukee)
   • Program: Gateway offers a welding technical diploma that includes hands-on training in multiple welding techniques, such as oxyacetylene welding and gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW).
   • Gateway Welding Program

Welding Employment Opportunities in Milwaukee

Milwaukee’s industrial landscape provides numerous employment opportunities for welders. Here are a few major employers in the area:

1. Rexnord Corporation
   • Location: Menomonee Valley
   • Description: Rexnord is a leading manufacturer of power transmission and water management products. They offer various employment opportunities for skilled welders in their manufacturing facilities.
   • Rexnord Careers
2. Briggs & Stratton
   • Location: Wauwatosa
   • Description: Known for its small engines and power equipment, Briggs & Stratton is a significant employer in the Milwaukee area, providing opportunities for welders in their production and assembly lines.
   • Briggs & Stratton Careers
3. Harley-Davidson Motor Company
   • Location: Menomonee Falls
   • Description: This iconic motorcycle manufacturer offers various positions for welders in their production facilities, focusing on high-quality craftsmanship and precision.
   • Harley-Davidson Careers

Prerequisites for Welding Programs

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

• Education Requirements: A high school diploma or GED is usually required.
• Minimum Age: Most programs require students to be at least 18 years old.
• Entrance Exams: Some programs may require entrance exams to assess basic math and reading skills.
• Safety Training: Basic safety training is often a prerequisite to ensure students understand the importance of safety in welding practices.
• Physical Requirements: Welding can be physically demanding, so good hand-eye coordination and physical stamina are essential.

Welding Certification Options

In Milwaukee, welders can pursue various certification options to enhance their credentials:

• American Welding Society (AWS) Certification: AWS offers several certifications, including Certified Welder (CW) and Certified Welding Inspector (CWI). These certifications are recognized nationwide and can improve job prospects.
  • AWS Certification
• Structural Welding Certification: For structural welding, you must pass a test conducted by a State of Wisconsin Weld Test Conductor. This certification is necessary for registration as a certified welder in Wisconsin.
  • Wisconsin DSPS Welder Registration
• State Registration: To perform structural welding, you must be registered with the state of Wisconsin, which involves passing a structural welding test and submitting the necessary documentation.
  • Wisconsin Structural Welding Certification

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a welder in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a rewarding choice with numerous opportunities for growth and advancement. With the right training and certifications, you can become a skilled professional in this essential industry. Reach out to a local welding school today to begin your journey toward a successful welding career.

For more information on the job outlook for welders, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers.