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Welding is an ideal career for people who enjoy working with their hands, whether to create or fix stuff.
Because it involves the use of complex processes and equipment, it requires a lot of hands-on training and experience to establish a career in the field.
From cars, ships, and aircraft to bridges, houses, and skyscrapers, they are professionally trained to ensure that the finished products meet industry standards.
That is a big reason why they are among the highest earners in the trades.
In Chicago, IL, for instance, welders earn an average base salary of $23.39 per hour.
That is 7% higher than the national average.
So, if you want to be a welder and get paid well, get the necessary education and skill set to be one.
Check out our list of welding schools in Chicago, IL to begin your journey.
1 Arc Academy
About the School
Arc Academy is a welding and fabrication school that provides education and training for those interested in the trades.
They are open and ready to teach students with or without any previous welding knowledge or experience the fundamental techniques to build their welding skillset.
They want to help them learn at their own pace and support them throughout.
Equipped with state-of-the-art tools and equipment, their shop is open to all members.
They also welcome experienced fabricators looking for a space to work.
Courses Offered
The Welding Program covers the different welding processes.
MIG
- MIG 1 ($120)
- MIG 2 ($120)
- MIG 1 and 2 Bundle ($216)
- MIG 1 & 2 Women in Welding ($216)
- MIG 3 Spool Gun Aluminum ($175)
TIG
- TIG 1 ($135)
- TIG 2 ($135)
- TIG 1 & 2 Bundle ($243)
- TIG 3 Aluminum and Stainless Steel ($175)
FLUX
- SMAW/Stick ($125)
- Flux Core ($135)
- Flux Bundle ($220)
Classes are available on-site and online, and accept anyone aged 10 years or older.
Those who are under 18 have to get their parent or legal guardian to sign a waiver form to be officially enrolled.
Address: 2225 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
2 Dawson Technical Institute of Kennedy King College
About the School
Dawson Technical Institute is an academic and job training facility that provides high-quality instruction and training in the construction technology industry.
Established in 1968, they are dedicated to offering competency-based instruction to give their students a competitive edge in the field of construction trade and utility.
They want to guide and mold them so that they can develop the skills and expertise necessary to start their careers and become successful.
Courses Offered
The Welding Program is a Basic Certificate Program that teaches basic welding concepts and processes in a shop setting.
Called Basic Certificate Program in Combination Welder covers the following areas:
- Basic welding skills
- Welding mathematics
- Blueprint reading
- Layout and Fabrication
- Job safety and ethics
The course requires a total of 19 to 20 hours and takes 1 semester to complete.
Upon successful completion, graduates can work entry-level welding jobs, such as ARC welders, MIG welders, or TIG welders.
Address: 3901 S State St, Chicago, IL 60609, United States
Schools Summary Table
| Rank | School | |
|---|---|---|
|
#1 | Arc Academy |
|
#2 | Dawson Technical Institute of Kennedy King College |
Read the full guide: How to Become a Certified Welder
Welding Schools by City
Welding Schools by State