Shielded Metal Arc Welding

Shielded Metal Arc Welding

Technical Certificate

This certificate is offered for individuals interested in pursuing the skills necessary to be a successful welder in the Shielded Metal Arc Welding process. Students will learn how to interpret prints and weld symbols prior to engaging in the weld process using various metal types including carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. They will also perform the thermal cutting processes during this educational experience.

  • Two female welding students in protective gear work with bright sparks in a workshop.
  • Welding student and instructor discussing metal work in a workshop near a metal table.

    Program Outline

    Term 1
    Course # Course Title Credits
    1044215700 Thermal Cutting
    Description

    Develops skill in thermal cutting and gouging processes. Learners practice manual and machine oxy-fuel cutting, plasma cutting and gouging and air carbon arc gouging. Prerequisite: 1044217200 Safety in Manufacturing (B or better).

    2.00
    1044215800 Shielded Metal Arc Welding on Carbon Steel
    Description

    Develop skills in shielded metal arc welding. Learners use 6010 and 7018 "stick" electrodes to complete fillet and groove welds in all positions. Weld quality is assessed per AWS D1.1 Structural Steel Code. Prerequisite: 1044217200 Safety in Manufacturing (B or better).

    2.00
    1044216300 Weld Inspection and Testing
    Description

    Emphasizes measurement of weld defects and assessment of weld quality conformance to common welding codes. Learners conduct etch tests, bend tests and break tests on welds. The process of procedure and welder qualification is explored through group activities.

    1.00
    3144210100 Weld Symbols
    Description

    This course provides a comprehensive introduction to weld symbols used in welding, fabrication, manufacturing, and engineering drawings. Students will learn how to read, interpret, and apply standard welding symbols in accordance with industry codes and drafting practices. Topics include reference lines, arrow and other side symbols, fillet and groove weld symbols, supplementary symbols, finish symbols, dimensions, weld locations, and welding notes. Through practical exercises and drawing interpretation, participants will develop the skills needed to accurately communicate welding requirements, inspect weld specifications, and ensure quality and consistency in fabrication projects.

    1.00

    At A Glance

    How You'll Learn

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    On Campus

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    Online Classes

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    Multiple Start Dates

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    Flexible Pace

    Next Academic Start Dates

    31
    Aug

    Fall 2026 Term Starts

    26
    Oct

    Additional Fall 2026 Start for Select Courses

    What is Competency-Based Education?

    Competency-Based Education (CBE) is learning at your own pace by mastering competencies through demonstration. Once all competencies for a program have been assessed and mastered, students will earn a certificate, diploma, or degree.

    Program Tuition*

    $1,643

    Books & Supplies*

    $387

    *Total cost for degree completion is estimated by current course requirements, books, and supplies. Tuition and fees are set by the Wisconsin Technical College System and subject to change.

    You may experience these additional costs, not charged by Nicolet, estimated based on length of program.

    Transportation
    $1,150
    Food/Housing
    $1,144
    Personal Expenses
    $1,146

    Student Equipment

    Students are required to purchase welding kits through the college bookstore or obtain the minimum tools and equipment listed to be able to successfully complete coursework and performance assessments in the welding lab.

    • Safety glasses
    • Welders gloves MIG and TIG
    • Chipping hammer
    • Welding beanie
    • 8-way welder pliers
    • Soapstone holder
    • Triple flint spark lighter
    • Tape measure
    • Weld fillet gauge
    • Mag tool
    • Material handling gloves
    • Backhand pad
    • Tool bag
    • Welder pencils
    • Auto darkening helmet
    • Lens cover
    • Welding jacket

    What You'll Learn

    • Print interpretation and weld symbols
    • Weld inspection and testing
    • Shielded metal arc welding on carbon steel
    • Shielded metal arc welding AWS testing on carbon steel
    • Thermal cutting

    Your Potential Careers

    • Production Welder
    • Maintenance Welder
    • Welding Sales and Service
    • Self-Employment

    Median Annual Salary

    $39,085 $42,437 $41,198
    Local State National

    EMSI 2020.1

    Get Started

    Your application can be submitted online, it takes just a few minutes to complete.

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