Welding Technology

Welding Technology

CIP 48.0508

Program Hours / Duration: 2 Year Half Day Program

Course Description: The welding program prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to join or cut metal surfaces. Includes instruction in arc welding, resistance welding, brazing, cutting, high‑energy beam welding and cutting, solid state welding, ferrous and non‑ferrous materials, oxidation‑reduction reactions, welding metallurgy, welding processes and heat treating, structural design, safety, and applicable codes and standards.

Learning Activities / Modes of Assessment

• Small Group

• Large Group

• Independent Work

• One-on-One

• Classwork Activities

• Presentations

• Research Projects

•  Technology Use

• Tests and Quizzes

Individual Resources

• Textbooks

• Workbooks

• Online Resources

• PowerPoint Presentations

• Computer Applications

• Proprietary Welding Technology Software

• Welding Equipment and Tools

• Welding Lab Simulations

Two-Year Scope & Sequence

Year / MP

Task #

K - Know

U - Understand

D - Do (Performance)

Yr 1 – MP 1

101

Safety rules, PPE, shop layout, basic orientation to welding

Understand importance of safety, shop practices, hazard mitigation

Conduct shop safety inspection; quiz on PPE and safety rules

Yr 1 – MP 1

102

Occupational orientation, roles of welding trades

Understand how welding fits in fabrication / manufacturing

Create an infographic 'Welding Trades in Industry'

YR 1 – MP 1

207

Demonstrate proper use of hand tools.

Proper use of tools with safeguards and what PPE is necessary.

Use tools following safety protocols up to industry standards.

Yr 1 – MP 2

103

Introduction to metals: ferrous, non‑ferrous, metal properties

Understand differences in metal selection & behavior under heat

Perform a metals identification lab (spark test, hardness test)

Yr 1 – MP 2

104

Basic electrical principles (current, voltage, circuits)

Understand how electricity is used in welding systems

Build a simple circuit on a breadboard; quiz on Ohm’s law

Yr 1 – MP 3

105

Blueprint reading: lines, symbols, orthographic projection

Understand how to interpret fabrication drawings

Decode welding symbols; interpret a simple part drawing

Yr 1 – MP 3

106

Oxy‑fuel cutting & brazing fundamentals

Understand cutting techniques and brazing processes

Practical cutting & brazing lab; rubric-based assessment

Yr 1 – MP 4

107

Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) – theory

Understand electrode selection, arc control, weld parameters

Weld basic root and bead passes on plate; destructive test

Yr 1 – MP 4

108

Discuss proper hot work operation.

Hot work activities require planning and safety controls to prevent fires, injuries, and property damage.

Identify hazards and follow hot work procedures before, during, and after operations

Yr 1 – MP 4


501

Perform safety inspections of SMAW equipment.

Equipment inspections help prevent accidents, equipment damage, and unsafe operating conditions.

Inspect SMAW equipment and identify safety concerns before operation.

Yr 1 – MP 4


502

Make minor external repairs to SMAW equipment.

Proper maintenance improves equipment performance, reliability, and workplace safety.

Perform minor external repairs and routine maintenance on SMAW equipment.

Yr 1 – MP 4


503

Set up and operate SMAW equipment.

Correct equipment setup directly impacts weld quality, safety, and productivity.

Set up welding equipment and produce welds using SMAW processes.

Yr 1 – MP 4


508

Pass fillet weld performance test in flat position.

Welding position influences technique, weld quality, and performance outcomes.

Produce a flat-position fillet weld that meets performance testing requirements.

Yr 1 – MP 4


509

Pass fillet weld performance test in horizontal position.

Welding procedures must be adjusted to account for gravity and position-specific challenges.

Produce a horizontal fillet weld that meets performance testing requirements.

Yr 1 – MP 4


510

Pass fillet weld performance test in vertical position.

Advanced welding positions require greater control of heat, puddle management, and technique.

Produce a vertical fillet weld that meets performance testing requirements.

Yr 1 – MP 4


511

Pass fillet weld performance test in overhead position.

Overhead welding requires precise control and adherence to safety practices to produce quality welds.

Produce an overhead fillet weld that meets performance testing requirements.

Yr 1 – MP 4


512

Pass groove weld performance test in flat position.

Groove welds require proper joint preparation, penetration, and fusion to achieve structural integrity.

Produce a flat-position groove weld that meets performance testing requirements.

Yr 1 – MP 4


513

Pass groove weld performance test in horizontal position.

Welding position affects weld puddle behavior and overall weld quality.

Produce a horizontal groove weld that meets performance testing requirements.

Yr 1 – MP 4


514

Pass groove weld performance test in vertical position.

Weld quality depends on proper technique, travel speed, and heat control in challenging positions.

Produce a vertical groove weld that meets performance testing requirements.

Yr 1 – MP 4

515

Pass groove weld performance test in overhead position.

Mastery of welding processes requires the ability to produce code-quality welds in all positions.

Produce an overhead groove weld that meets performance testing requirements.

Yr 2 – MP 1


201

Identify major types of metals (ferrous and nonferrous) used in welding.

Material characteristics influence welding methods, filler selection, weld quality, and final product performance.

Identify and classify ferrous and nonferrous metals commonly used in welding and fabrication.

Yr 2 – MP 1


601

Perform safety inspections of GMAW equipment.

Equipment inspections help ensure safe operation, prevent accidents, and maintain production efficiency.

Inspect GMAW equipment and identify safety concerns prior to use.

Yr 2 – MP 1


602

Make minor external repairs to GMAW equipment.

Routine maintenance improves equipment performance, reliability, and workplace safety.

Perform minor external repairs and maintenance procedures on GMAW equipment.

Yr 2 – MP 1


603

Set up and operate GMAW equipment.

Proper machine setup and parameter selection directly affect weld quality and production efficiency.

Set up and operate GMAW equipment according to job specifications and safety standards.

Yr 2 – MP 1


607

Pass fillet weld performance test in flat position.

Welding position affects technique, weld appearance, penetration, and overall quality.

Produce a flat-position fillet weld that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 1


608

Pass fillet weld performance test in horizontal position.

Welders must adjust technique to compensate for gravity and positional challenges.

Produce a horizontal fillet weld that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 1


609

Pass fillet weld performance test in vertical position.

Controlling heat input and puddle movement is critical when welding in vertical positions.

Produce a vertical fillet weld that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 1


610

Pass fillet weld performance test in overhead position.

Advanced welding positions require increased skill, control, and adherence to safety procedures.

Produce an overhead fillet weld that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 1


611

Pass groove weld performance test in flat position.

Groove weld quality depends on proper joint preparation, penetration, fusion, and technique.

Produce a flat-position groove weld that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 1


612

Pass groove weld performance test in horizontal position.

Position-specific welding techniques influence weld soundness, appearance, and structural integrity.

Produce a horizontal groove weld that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 2


701

Perform safety inspections of FCAW equipment.

Equipment inspections help prevent accidents, ensure operational readiness, and support safe welding practices.

Inspect FCAW equipment and identify potential safety hazards before operation.

Yr 2 – MP 2


702

Make minor external repairs to FCAW equipment.

Proper maintenance improves equipment reliability, performance, and workplace safety.

Perform minor external repairs and routine maintenance on FCAW equipment.

Yr 2 – MP 2


703

Set up and operate FCAW equipment.

Proper equipment setup and adjustment are essential for producing quality welds and maintaining safe operations.

Set up and operate FCAW equipment according to welding specifications and safety standards.

Yr 2 – MP 2


707

Pass fillet weld performance test in flat position.

Welding position affects weld quality, penetration, and technique selection.

Produce a flat-position fillet weld that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 2


708

Pass fillet weld performance test in horizontal position.

Welders must adapt their technique to maintain weld quality in different positions.

Produce a horizontal fillet weld that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 2


709

Pass fillet weld performance test in vertical position.

Heat control and weld puddle management are critical to successful vertical welding.

Produce a vertical fillet weld that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 2


710

Pass fillet weld performance test in overhead position.

Welding overhead requires advanced skill, control, and adherence to safety practices.

Produce an overhead fillet weld that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 2


711

Pass groove weld performance test in flat position.

Proper joint preparation, penetration, and fusion are important for structural weld quality.

Produce a flat-position groove weld that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 2


712

Pass groove weld performance test in horizontal position.

Position-specific welding techniques influence weld soundness and structural integrity.

Produce a horizontal groove weld that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 2


713

Pass groove weld performance test in vertical position.

Successful vertical groove welds require consistent control of travel speed, heat, and electrode manipulation.

Produce a vertical groove weld that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 2


714

Pass groove weld performance test in overhead position.

Professional welders must demonstrate the ability to create code-quality welds in all positions.

Produce an overhead groove weld that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 2


204

Describe industry-accepted welding codes, standards, and procedures and their use.

Welding codes and standards ensure quality, safety, consistency, and compliance throughout the fabrication industry.

Interpret and apply welding codes, standards, and procedures to welding projects.

Yr 2 – MP 2


801

Perform safety inspections of GTAW equipment.

Equipment inspections help prevent accidents, ensure operational readiness, and support safe welding practices.

Inspect GTAW equipment and identify potential safety concerns before operation.

Yr 2 – MP 2


802

Make minor external repairs to GTAW equipment.

Preventive maintenance improves equipment performance, reliability, and workplace safety.

Perform minor external repairs and routine maintenance on GTAW equipment.

Yr 2 – MP 2


803

Set up and operate GTAW equipment.

Proper equipment setup and parameter selection directly influence weld quality, precision, and efficiency.

Set up and operate GTAW equipment according to welding specifications and safety procedures.

Yr 2 – MP 2


806

Set up and operate GTAW on nonferrous materials.

Different materials require specific welding techniques, settings, and handling procedures to produce quality welds.

Configure and operate GTAW equipment on nonferrous materials using appropriate procedures.

Yr 2 – MP 2


809

Pass fillet weld performance test in flat position on ferrous materials.

Welding position affects heat control, weld appearance, penetration, and weld quality.

Produce a flat-position fillet weld on ferrous material that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 2


810

Pass fillet weld performance test in horizontal position on ferrous materials.

Position-specific welding techniques are required to maintain weld quality and structural integrity.

Produce a horizontal fillet weld on ferrous material that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 2


811

Pass fillet weld performance test in vertical position on ferrous materials.

Successful welding requires consistent control of heat, travel speed, and weld puddle behavior.

Produce a vertical fillet weld on ferrous material that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 2


812

Pass fillet weld performance test in overhead position on ferrous materials.

Advanced welding positions demand greater skill, precision, and safety awareness.

Produce an overhead fillet weld on ferrous material that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 2


813

Pass fillet weld performance test in flat position on nonferrous materials.

Material characteristics influence welding techniques and operating parameters.

Produce a flat-position fillet weld on nonferrous material that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 2


814

Pass fillet weld performance test in horizontal position on nonferrous materials.

Weld quality depends on adapting techniques to material properties and welding position.

Produce a horizontal fillet weld on nonferrous material that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 2


815

Pass fillet weld performance test in vertical position on nonferrous materials.

Welding different materials requires adjustments in heat control, filler selection, and technique.

Produce a vertical fillet weld on nonferrous material that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 2


816

Pass fillet weld performance test in overhead position on nonferrous materials.

Professional welders must consistently produce high-quality welds across materials and positions to meet industry expectations.

Produce an overhead fillet weld on nonferrous material that meets industry performance standards.

Yr 2 – MP 3

205

Weld discontinuities, defects, NDT / visual inspection

Understand defect types, root causes, inspection methods

Perform visual & dye-penetrant tests; document defects

Yr 2 – MP 3


206

Clean and prepare materials for welding and/or cutting.

Proper material preparation directly impacts weld quality, strength, appearance, and overall project success.

Prepare materials using appropriate cleaning and preparation methods prior to welding or cutting operations.

Yr 2 – MP 3


901

Perform safety inspections of OFC equipment.

Equipment inspections help identify hazards and ensure safe oxy-fuel cutting operations.

Inspect oxy-fuel cutting equipment and identify potential safety concerns before use.

Yr 2 – MP 3


902

Make minor external repairs to OFC equipment.

Routine maintenance improves equipment reliability, efficiency, and workplace safety.

Perform minor external repairs and maintenance on oxy-fuel cutting equipment.

Yr 2 – MP 3


903

Set up for manual OFC operations on steel.

Proper equipment setup ensures cutting quality, efficiency, and safe operation.

Set up manual oxy-fuel cutting equipment according to specifications and safety requirements.

Yr 2 – MP 3


904

Operate manual OFC equipment.

Effective equipment operation requires the application of safe work practices and proper cutting techniques.

Operate oxy-fuel cutting equipment to perform assigned cutting tasks safely and efficiently.

Yr 2 – MP 3


905

Perform straight cutting operations on steel.

Precise cutting techniques contribute to dimensional accuracy and fabrication quality.

Produce straight cuts that meet project specifications and quality standards.

Yr 2 – MP 3


906

Perform shape cutting operations on steel.

Various cutting techniques allow fabricators to create components that meet design requirements.

Produce shape cuts on steel according to specified dimensions and layouts.

Yr 2 – MP 3


907

Perform bevel cutting operations on steel.

Bevel preparation influences weld penetration, fit-up, and structural performance.

Produce bevel cuts that meet welding and fabrication requirements.

Yr 2 – MP 3


908

Perform piercing operations on steel.

Specialized cutting operations expand fabrication capabilities and improve production flexibility.

Perform piercing operations safely and accurately on steel materials.

Yr 2 – MP 3


1001

Perform safety inspections of mechanized OFC equipment.

Inspection procedures prevent equipment failures and promote safe mechanized cutting operations.

Inspect mechanized OFC equipment and identify maintenance or safety concerns.

Yr 2 – MP 3


1002

Make minor external repairs to mechanized OFC equipment.

Proper maintenance extends equipment life and supports consistent cutting performance.

Perform minor external repairs and maintenance on mechanized OFC equipment.

Yr 2 – MP 3


1003

Set up and operate mechanized OFC equipment on steel.

Mechanized cutting systems improve precision, consistency, and production efficiency.

Set up and operate mechanized OFC equipment according to job specifications.

Yr 2 – MP 3


1004

Perform straight mechanized OFC operations on steel.

Automated systems improve repeatability and accuracy during fabrication processes.

Produce straight mechanized cuts that meet quality and dimensional requirements.

Yr 2 – MP 3


1005

Perform bevel mechanized OFC operations on steel.

Proper bevel cuts support successful weld preparation and structural integrity.

Produce bevel cuts using mechanized OFC equipment according to specifications.

Yr 2 – MP 3


1101

Perform safety inspections of PAC equipment.

Equipment inspections help ensure safe operation and prevent accidents during plasma cutting.

Inspect PAC equipment and identify potential safety issues before operation.

Yr 2 – MP 3


1102

Make minor external repairs to PAC equipment.

Preventive maintenance improves reliability, efficiency, and equipment longevity.

Perform minor external repairs and routine maintenance on PAC equipment.

Yr 2 – MP 3


1103

Set up and operate manual PAC operations on ferrous and nonferrous materials.

Different materials require adjustments in equipment setup and operating procedures for quality results.

Set up and operate PAC equipment on ferrous and nonferrous materials.

Yr 2 – MP 3


1104

Perform straight and shape PAC operations on ferrous and nonferrous materials.

Precision cutting techniques affect part accuracy, material usage, and fabrication quality.

Produce straight and shape cuts that meet design and quality requirements.

Yr 2 – MP 3


1105

Perform gouging and scarfing PAC operations to remove base and weld metal.

Material removal processes support weld repair, preparation, and fabrication efficiency.

Perform gouging and scarfing operations safely and effectively using PAC equipment.

Yr 2 – MP 3


1201

Perform safety inspections of CAC-A equipment and accessories.

Safety inspections help identify equipment defects and reduce workplace hazards.

Inspect CAC-A equipment and accessories before operation.

Yr 2 – MP 3


1202

Make minor external repairs to CAC-A equipment and accessories.

Routine maintenance helps ensure reliable performance and safe operation.

Perform minor external repairs and maintenance on CAC-A equipment and accessories.

Yr 2 – MP 3


1203

Set up and operate manual CAC-A gouging and cutting operations on steel.

Proper setup and operation are necessary to achieve safe and efficient material removal.

Set up and operate CAC-A equipment for gouging and cutting steel.

Yr 2 – MP 3


1204

Perform gouging and scarfing operations to remove base and weld metal on steel.

Material removal techniques are important for weld repair, joint preparation, and quality improvement.

Perform gouging and scarfing operations that meet fabrication and repair requirements.

Yr 2 – MP 4

Value-Added Task

Pipe welding fundamentals (5G, 6G positions)

Understand positional challenges, root passes, backing gas

Weld open-root pipe in 5G/6G positions; inspect with acceptance criteria

Yr 2 – MP 4

Value-Added Task

Capstone Project & Certification prep

Understand integration of all learned skills, AWS standards

Complete a comprehensive weldment project; mock certification test



Welding Scope and Sequence PDF

Welding Syllabus


Program Description:

This program prepares students to apply technical knowledge and skills in the welding and fabrication of metal structures and components. Instruction includes shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), oxy-fuel cutting, blueprint reading, metallurgy, and safety practices. Students develop skills in layout, fabrication, inspection, and repair of welded assemblies.

Emphasis is placed on hands-on skill development, safety, and adherence to industry standards. Students are expected to maintain a clean and organized work area. Attendance and participation are critical.

Two Year Half-Day Program

Year One:   8:00am – 10:25am (36 weeks – 3 credits)
Year Two:  11:25am – 2:00pm (36 weeks – 3 credits)

Program Costs:

Students are required to purchase the following at an estimated cost of $500.

Required PPE, which includes: 

  • Safety glasses (must be worn at all times in the shop)
  • Welding helmet (prices vary based upon features and options)
  • Welding gloves
  • Protective jackets, sleeves, or aprons
  • Hearing protection when needed
  • Closed-toed, steel-toed, leather work boots or shoes



Course Structure & Competency Areas

  1. Year 1: Foundations
  • Orientation & Shop Safety (OSHA awareness, PPE, hazard identification)
  • Tools, Equipment, and Measurement
  • Blueprint Reading & Welding Symbols
  • Oxy-Fuel Cutting and Heating
  • Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) – Basic Positions
  • Introduction to Metallurgy
  • Weld Quality & Inspection Basics
  1. Year 2: Core Welding Processes
  • Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW / MIG)
  • Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)
  • Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW / TIG)
  • Advanced SMAW Techniques
  • Fabrication & Layout
  • Structural and Pipe Welding Applications
  • Weld Testing & Inspection (Visual, Destructive, NDT basics)
  • Career Readiness & Employability Skills

Assessments & Certifications

  • NOCTI Welding Assessment – End-of-Program Assessment
  • AWS (American Welding Society) Certifications – Optional (e.g., AWS D1.1 Structural Welding)
  • OSHA 10-Hour Certification – Recommended

Instructional Materials

  • Textbook: Welding Principles and Applications by Larry Jeffus (Digital or Print)
  • Supplemental Resources: AWS standards, WPS, industry videos and simulation software

Career Pathways (For more information visit: http://www.onetonline.org)

Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions such as:

  • Welder (Structural, Production, or Pipe)
  • Fabrication Technician
  • Maintenance Welder
  • Metal Fabricator

With further education and experience:

  • Welding Inspector (CWI)
  • Welding Engineer
  • Shop Supervisor / Foreman
  • Technical Instructor

CTC Knowledge Transfers to College Credits

Visit: www.collegetransfer.net select search and SOAR credits at the bottom.

  • Community College of Allegheny County
  • Delaware County Community College
  • Greater Altoona
  • Harrisburg Area Community College
  • Northampton County Area Community College
  • Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology ( 2 options)
  • Westmoreland County Community College

Welding Behavior and Safety Procedures

  1. You must observe the office safety policies in place within the classroom.
  2. Students will complete the safety program leading to certification.
  3. No outside electronic devices will be allowed.
  4. In case of an injury, regardless of severity, it must be reported to the instructor



About Your Instructor

Instructor Name:

Mr. Sam Santiago

Hire Year:

2025

Email Address:

ssantiago@lcctc.edu


Biography

I am a dependable, safety-conscious welder bringing over 37 years of experience ranging from fire aerial apparatus weld operations to 30 years of experience in weld manufacturing of motorcycles for Harley Davidson. During my career, I have been involved in team projects focused on safety and production of aluminum gas tanks and created a staple piece for the International Aerospace and Machinists Union. 

Overall my professional career has helped to develop a detail-oriented skillset focus and provided experience in working with aluminum, steel, and stainless steel. I pride myself on having high-quality and safety standards that ensure people and products are prioritized. I am an enthusiastic vocational graduate who values this trade to a high degree and am passionate about training the next generation of welders with a commitment to safety, efficiency, and accuracy.

Education

    Certificated of Welding -Brownstown Vocational Technology School 

  • Completed 161 safety courses related to production environment including confined space training and hazmat training
  • Completed 700 courses related to welding area responsibilities and production of motorcycles
  • Completed a vocational machine shop course for basic machine and basic CNC

Certifications and Awards

  • Certified in SMAW, GMAW, FMAW, GTAW
  • Certified in oxygen acetylene torching and brazing
  • Certified blueprint reader
  • AWS certification in 100% penetration down 1 on 3/32 aluminum
  • AWS certification on right vertical up 3/8 inch bend test



Welding Work Experience (Related to CTE Program)

    Welder - Harley-Davidson York Vehicle Operations 

  • SMAW on frame welding
  • SMAW and GTAW with gas tanks and swing arms
  • Lead tooling improvement project associated with aluminum gas tank drain plug with a focus on production, safety and quality
  • Pivotal role in construction of International Aerospace and Machinist conference gavel and strike plate
  • Train incoming staff on safety, job instructions, robot operations
  • Work with aluminum, steel and stainless steel
  • Operated on assembly line, paint shop and machine shop


    Welder - Simon Ladder Towers Industry - Ephrata, PA

  • Received AWS certification on right vertical up 3/8 inch bend test
  • Operated on aerial ladder line using SMAW and GMAW
  • Worked on aerial basket line and waterway area line using GTAW
  • Performed GMAW on truck frame and out rigger area and turn tables
  • Completed all welds following UL testing qualifications
  • Worked with aluminum, stainless steel and steel
  • Functioned as a team leader and helped onboard and train new employees
  • Licensed in tow motor operations 





Grading Scale

The LCCTC grading system incorporates three components: competencies (skill— 33.3%), career skills (work ethic— 33.3%), and theory (knowledge—33.3%). Each academic class implements a performance evaluation/student grading system that incorporates career skills (work ethic), and theory (knowledge). Each component is weighted equally.

Please refer to the Student Handbook, available on the school website at http://www.lcctc.edu for a complete list of grading components.


Progress Reports

Students will receive a “Progress Report” each mid-quarter through the mail for any student with a 70% or less, and a “Report Card” will be given to each student at the end of each quarter.  It is the student's responsibility to share this information with their parents/guardians.   Both reports will utilize student performance data obtained from competencies, career skills, and theory grades.

Please Note:  40% is the minimum grade for the first 3 marking periods.  However, students with excessive absences may be assigned an earned grade with administrative approval.  There is no minimum grade for the 4th marking period.



Welding Syllabus PDF