Metal Fabrication/Welding

Program Information

Degree Type
33-credit Technical Diploma

Program Code
31-457-1

Time to Degree
1 year

Start Date
August / January

How You'll Learn

On Campus

Metal fabrication involves preparing and manipulating materials, while welding fuses parts together. In this program, learn to read prints; create the shape of a part for cutting, fabrication and welding; and produce quality parts. Develop skills to program/operate computer-controlled press brakes/shears, plasma arc cutting machines and microprocessor-based power sources.

Tuition Costs

The cost of your degree depends on a number of factors, including where you live, how your program is delivered, how long it takes to finish your program and the financial aid you receive. Explore current tuition and fees.

Additional Estimated Costs

Access to any computer or tablet
Metal Fab Tool Kit: $279
Safety equipment (shoes/glasses): $100
Welding protective attire: $400

How To Apply

Apply online and pay the $30 application fee.
Submit a copy of one of the following to demonstrate your math skills:
- High school GPA of 2.60 or above. Transcript must include completed coursework through the 11th grade.*
- ACT, ACCUPLACER® or GED - 2014 Series (165 or higher).*
- Prior college coursework may meet this requirement in whole or in part. Courses must be in the specific area(s), and you must have earned a grade of C or better (2.0 on a 4.0 scale) in the courses.*
- If none of the above apply, sign up for the ACCUPLACER® placement test.

*Unofficial copies of these documents can be sent to admissions@wctc.edu.

Questions on the application process? Visit the Admissions page or contact an enrollment counselor.

Apply Online

Program Details

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Contact Us

Questions? We'd love to help! Connect with our Enrollment team by filling out our online form or by email at enroll@wctc.edu.

Potential Careers

If you are interested in working in a manufacturing setting, like to use machines and equipment to make parts fit together, and have an eye for detailed work, a career in metal fabrication/welding may be for you. Those in the field have knowledge of metallurgy, solid math skills and the ability to interpret prints.

Fabricator
Laser Operator
Assembler
Welder/Press Operator
Welder

High School Eligibility

This program is open to qualified high school applicants. Learn more >

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Career Salaries

$33,400 – $46,700 annually

Salary range estimates based on wages for related occupations in Waukesha County as reported by Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI). Individual wages may vary based on experience, industry, location and specific job requirements.

Check the WCTC Graduate Success Report to view our graduates’ entry wages.

Financial Aid

As a program student, you are eligible to receive:

Financial aid loans
Scholarships
Other forms of assistance

Learn more about financial aid.

Program Courses

Manufacturing Programs

Career Pathway

What Makes This Program Unique

Learn on state-of-the-art Lincoln welders.
Take advantage of the opportunity to participate in an award-winning SkillsUSA team.
Advance your career by applying credits earned this technical diploma to the Metal Fabrication/Welding - Advanced associate degree.

Similar Programs

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Metal Fabrication/Welding - Advanced

Develop advanced skills involving the intricate planning and preparing a part for cutting, fabrication and welding.

Welding Technician

Gain skills to fuse metal parts together to create a permanent bond.

Related Certificates

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GMAW/Fabricator

Learn Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) to join metal using heat and electricity.

Industrial Laser Operator

Develop specialized skills in laser cutting technology with hands-on practice.

Program Pathway

Earn certificates, technical diplomas and/or industry credentials along this pathway. Start with some courses for entry-level employment, and continue with additional courses for higher wages and job advancement.

Metal Fabrication/Welding Pathway

Earn credit for prior learning for the college-level knowledge and skills that you've already acquired through advanced high school classes, previous college coursework, self-study, military training work or volunteer experience.

More Credit Opportunities

Dual enrollment offers high school students an opportunity to get a head start in high-demand fields while earning college credits.

Learn More

You may have the opportunity to obtain credit for the college-level skills and knowledge you've already acquired through prior coursework, work experience and more.

Learn More