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The typical requirements to be able to work as a welder in the US are a high school diploma (or equivalent), welding training, and welding certifications.
The time it takes to complete a welding course or program can range from less than a year to a few years, depending on the educational route.
For example, if you enroll in a vocational school, you can finish a welding program in 6 to 8 months.
Or, if you do an apprenticeship, you can complete it in 3 to 4 years.
If you want to work as a welder in Washington, DC, you have to go to a welding school.
With an average base salary of $35.20 per hour, welders in that area earn 62% above the national average.
Start your welding journey by checking out our list of welding schools in Washington, DC below.
1 Southeast Welding Academy
About the School
Southeast Welding School provides high-quality education and training in welding.
Their mission is to teach students the necessary knowledge and skills to become “World Class Welders.”
They employ only Veteran Experienced and Certified Instructors to ensure that their graduates are ready to enter the workforce and excel in their chosen fields.
With more than 30 years of industry experience, they are dedicated to producing reliable, competent, and dedicated welding professionals who can deliver outstanding services.
They offer low-cost tuition and a well-prepared course curriculum to help students get a start with their welding career.
Courses Offered
The Welding Technology program teaches essential principles and procedures involved in welding.
It covers a wide range of topics, including introduction to welding codes and standards, hand tool use, power machine use, welding power sources, laboratory operating procedures, industrial safety and health practices, and welding career potentials.
It offers two prerequisite modules:
Basic Welding/Welding I
- This takes 120 hours to complete.
- It covers various topics, such as the history of welding, the different welding and cutting processes and tools, the duties and responsibilities of a welder in multiple welding positions, and safety.
- It consists of lectures, discussions, demonstrations, and quizzes for student evaluation.
Welding II
- This takes 120 hours to complete.
- It covers various topics, including interpreting and reading blueprints, identifying metals, layouts, and setups, and constructing different welding joints.
- It consists of lectures, discussions, and demonstrations, and uses quizzes as a method of evaluation.
Moreover, the program is made up of 5 courses:
- Basic Shielded Metal Arc Welding
- Basic Pipe Welding
- Oxy-Fuel Cutting
- Advanced Pipe Welding
- Advanced Shielded Metal Arc Welding
Each takes 120 hours to complete.
Upon successful completion, students get a Certificate of Completion.
They can also test for the AWS and ASME Certification Exams.
Address: 1103 W Street, SE Washington, DC. 20020
2 Southeast Welding Center
About the School
Southeast Welding Center’s philosophy is to “Make A Real Difference.”
Since its founding, they have been committed to providing opportunities for people who want to rebuild their lives.
With a proven track record in the industry, they offer top-notch welding programs to their community.
Their integrated basic education services place an emphasis on making sure that their adult learners are well-prepared for a long and stable career in the welding industry.
Courses Offered
Welding courses and training are available to the District of Columbia residents.
Partnering with Southeast Welding Academy, Southeast Welding Center offers the Integrated Adult Basic Education and Career Vocational Skills Training.
The program covers:
- Basic Welding
- Shielded Metal Arc Welding
- Welding Examination for Certification
- Welding Re-certification
- Safety
To enroll, you have to meet the following requirements:
- 18 years old or older
- Have a birth certificate, social security card, valid ID, and proof of DC Residency
- Not enrolled in school
- Attend the orientation
Classes are held Monday to Friday, 9 am to 3 pm, at Southeast Welding Center at 1235 Kenilworth Ave. NE, Washington DC.
Address: 1235 Kenilworth Ave. NE, Washington DC 20019 US
Schools Summary Table
| Rank | School | |
|---|---|---|
|
#1 | Southeast Welding Academy |
|
#2 | Southeast Welding Center |
Read the full guide: How to Become a Certified Welder
Welding Schools by City
Welding Schools by State