Welding Technology

AOS Degree - Code #0666

The welding technology program is taught according to the standards set by the American Welders Society (AWS) and is AWS-certified.

The program focuses on welding processes performed in all positions on both plate and pipe. Topics include proper safety methods, required math, related skills, layout and fit up, welding codes and standards, welding inspection, testing, and drawing/welding symbol interpretation.

The first year, students will complete AWS Level I standards for an entry-level welder. The second year will take students toward AWS Levels II and III - advanced welder and expert welder. Additional techniques such as high-pressure vessel, high-pressure pipe, and ship fitting will be taught as well as other advanced welding techniques.

The students perform extensive hands-on work in a fully equipped approximately 2,600-sq.-ft. welding lab. Every student will have an individual welding booth with adequate ventilation and air replacement equipment. Lecture will be held in a separate facility utilizing the latest instructional techniques.

In their second year, the students will work in a 10,000-sq.-ft. fabrication facility located at the nearby Wellsville Dresser-Rand facility. This laboratory was made possible through a commitment from Dresser-Rand and Lincoln-Electric in partnership with Alfred State.

PROGRAM STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES

• Demonstrate mathematical operations using accepted mathematical applications.
• Practice shop safety and welding safety.
• Perform straight, bevel and cuts using manual and automatic oxyfuel and plasma equipment.
• Set-up and operate constant current welding equipment.
• Set-up and operate constant voltage welding equipment.
• Perform fillet and groove welds in all positions on carbon steel plate.
• Perform fillet and groove weld on pipe in all positions.
• Identify and describe the heat relationship to the grain structure of various metals.
• Maintain and develop testing and inspection records.
• Demonstrate layout and fabrication skills that culminate the previous materials used in program.

DIRECT ENTRY INTO BACCALAUREATE DEGREE PROGRAM

Alfred State welding technology graduates may enter directly into the technology management BBA degree program.

OCCUPATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

• Industrial Welder
• Steel Construction
• Equipment Repair
• Self-employment
• Fabrication Welder
• Structural Welder

EMPLOYMENT STATISTICS

Employment and transfer rate:

• Welding Technology (AOS degree):
• 90 percent – 60 percent are employed; 30 percent transferred to continue their education.

RELATED PROGRAMS

Air Conditioning and Heating Technology

Autobody Repair

Drafting/CAD: Model Building & Process Piping Drawing

Drafting/CAD: Technical Illustration

Machine Tool Technology

Mechanical Engineering Technology

ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS/RECOMMENDATIONS

Recommended: In-depth knowledge of basic math skills

TECHNICAL STANDARDS

Applicants for the welding program must meet the following physical requirements:

• Must be able to perform safely in the shop.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds to eye level.
• Must be able to communicate orally with a person six-10 feet away in a shop environment.
• Must be able to visually decipher an oscilloscope monitor and digital/analog meter, and scan tool displays.
• Must be able to diagnose mechanical failures that are distinguished audibly.
• Must be able to understand and retain information found in service repair manuals and use diagnostic flow charts.
• Must be able to visually read an LCD display on welding equipment.
• Must have the dexterity and mobility to weld in all the welding positions to meet all requirements.
• Good eyesight is recommended.