Welding Technology
Welding Technology
Welding Technology is a comprehensive course to develop hands-on skills in the three most common welding processes:
- Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW/Stick)
- Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/MIG)/Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW/MIG)
- Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG)
In addition to extensive hands-on welding experience, students will learn shop safety, proper use of industry tools, required math and perform basic fabrication techniques. All students will have the opportunity to earn credentials through the American Welding Society (AWS), that demonstrate proficiency in various welding topics including safety, print reading, Oxy-Fuel and Plasma cutting, shielded metal arc welding, gas metal arc welding and gas tungsten arc welding. OSHA 10-hour training and certification are inclusive of this program. (324 Hour Program)
Fall 2025
Monday through Friday
8:00 am to 1:00 p.m.
Workforce Development North Campus | 1526 Walden Avenue, Suite 200 | Cheektowaga, NY 14225
Registration Process
This program requires an application and entrance exam.
Step 1: Fill Out the Registration Application
Step 2: Choose a TABE Test Date (Testing details will be emailed to you prior to your selected test date.)
Click here for information on the entrance exam.
Tuition $5,000
Financial assistance may be available through ACCES-VR, the US Department of Veterans Affairs, BETC/ECC One Stop or other sources.
A $300 deposit is required to reserve your spot in this class.
- Tuition does not include steel toe work boots or welding helmet. These are the responsibility of the student to obtain. The approximate cost is $208 and is subject to change.
Admission Requirements
- A TABE score of 7.0 in reading and 7.0 in math*.
- A personal interview will be conducted.
Employment Outlook
Skilled welders/fabricators are highly sought after by manufacturers, construction companies and other specialized firms such as sign companies. While many welding jobs are in manufacturing or fabricating facilities, there are also a lot of welders who work on construction sites or in the field as repair technicians. Entry-level welders can expect to earn on average $20 to $22 per hour. Some of the companies our graduates have worked for include Mono-Systems, Hohl Industrial Services, HDM Hydraulics and Parker Hannifin. Erie 1 BOCES also provides services such as placement assistance, resume writing and interview skills to help students in their search for a career as an entry level welder/fabricator.
*Exceptions to admission scores may be considered based on work history, prior education, personal interview, and employer recommendations.