This course is designed for all skill levels, from beginners to those who have some training and wish to achieve high skill levels for structural welding with steel. Students will learn foundational knowledge that relates to gas metal arc welding (GMAW or MIG), including safety practices, gas identification and basic blueprint reading. In addition, students will learn to perform routine equipment maintenance, identify and weld the five basic types of joints and describe constant voltage and wire feed processes.

An American Welding Society D1.1 Structural Welding – Steel certification will be earned by students who complete the class and demonstrate the required welding skills. This is an entry-level basic certification that shows the student is professional, has efficient work habits and the necessary skills to become a well-equipped welder. AWS D1.1 is the most commonly used welding code in the U.S. and is used as the primary quality standard for many projects involving steel welding. Basic safety equipment and tools (welding helmet, fire resistant welding jacket, MIG/stickgloves, TIG gloves, safety glasses, ratchet headgear with clear and green face shields, welding pliers) are required to participate. Students must wear jeans, a long sleeved shirt & leather shoes or boots.