The Welding Process Technology diploma was designed in cooperation with regional manufacturing companies. The program prepares the student for a career in a welding or welding-related field. The program integrates theory, safety, and applications of technical welding training.

The Welding Process Technology program in Thief River Falls offers scheduling flexibility where students work at their own pace allowing motivated individuals or those with prior knowledge to complete courses at a faster pace. The WELD courses in Thief River Falls meet within an open or flex lab setting. The TRF welding lab will have extended hours that allows for the student to practice and develop hands-on skills. Faculty in the TRF Welding program are available during these flex lab hours to assist learners with questions and to administer skills assessments.

Students enrolled in the Thief River Falls WELD courses will be responsible for managing their own learning. Through coursework, the student will develop fundamental knowledge of metals, welding processes, safety, and related equipment applications. The student will become proficient in the following welding and cutting processes: Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), Oxy-Acetylene Cutting (OAC), Plasma Arc Cutting (PAC), and Carbon Arc Cutting (CAC). This diploma consists of 3 stackable certificates that each specialize on a specific process – SMAW, GMAW, and GTAW. By completing the full diploma, the students will be able to apply for graduation in all four credentials.

Program Learner Outcomes

1. Student will demonstrate proper safety practices and procedures at all times.
2. Student will perform conversions of standard inch and metric measurements.
3. Student will follow detailed verbal or written instructions given by an immediate supervisor to set up and carry out specific job assignments.
4. Student will perform general housekeeping duties to maintain workspace, equipment, and tool cleanliness.
5. Student will interpret symbols and blueprints accurately for a variety of welding projects.
6. Student will prepare an applicable bill of materials and cost estimate.
7. Student will prepare and lay-out parts from weld drawings.
8. 8. Student will define common acronyms used in the welding industry.
9. 9. Student will troubleshoot and solve common problems involved with everyday use of a welding machine.
10. 10. Student will visually examine all work for discontinuities.
11. 11. Student will determine parts fabricated are within given tolerance.
12. 12. Student will utilize manual, automatic, and semi-automatic equipment for cutting and welding.
13. 13. Student will identify electrodes and filler metals based on the American Welding Society’s system of classification.
14. 14. Student will demonstrate the ability to properly repair a structural weld using the appropriate cutting, grinding, and welding procedures.
15. 15. Student will demonstrate effective oral and written communications with all clients and customers with respect for diversity of culture, age and gender.
16. 16. Student will demonstrate professional workplace habits including punctuality, attitudes, behaviors, and craftsmanship expected of the welding industry.
17. 17. Student will demonstrate effective oral and written communications with coworkers with respect for diversity of culture, age, and gender.

Supplies–Tools

• Auto-darkening helmet
• Flip-front visor #5 face shield
• Safety glasses
• Leather sleeve welding jacket
• Heavy welding gloves (stick)
• Light welding gloves (mig)
• Carbon steel scratch brush
• Stainless steel scratch brush
• Chipping hammer
• Welder plier
• 10” locking, adjustable pliers
• 8” slip-joint pliers
• 10” adjustable wrench
• Soapstone with holder
• 12” combination square
• Pocket scribe
• Imperial tape measure (16’ min)
• 6” steel rule
• 4.5” right angle grinder
• 16 oz nozzle dip
• Tip cleaner
• Striker
• Box of wax pencils
• Hex key set (must have 5/64”)
• 5 – 60g flap discs to fit angle grinder
• 5 – grinding stones to fit angle grinder
• 2 – flat wire wheel brushes to fit angle grinder
• Toolbox to fit in locker (max dimensions: 12” wide; 16” high; 27” deep)