The part-time Welding program prepares you for a career in the welding industry in only 18 weeks. Using the "learn while you earn" model, our evening class allows you to work while you're taking classes.
This program covers industry standard processes of Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW-Stick), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW-TIG), and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW-MIG), as well as plasma arc and oxy-acetylene cutting are covered. You’ll also earn an industry-recognized OSHA-10 certification and gain hands-on experience in the welding lab.
Discover if welding is the right career for you, receive comprehensive training in key aspects of the trade, connect with local employers, and build a network that sets you on the path to a successful career.
Program Requirements:
- 18 years of age or older by completion of program
- Successful completion of TABE entrance assessment
- HS diploma recommended, not required (note: employers may require a high school diploma - if desired, you can earn your High School Equivalency diploma for free at the same time)
This program is ideal for students with:
- a mechanical aptitude
- attention to detail
- problem-solving
- tolerance of heat, bright light, and loud noises
Manual dexterity is also a strong component of this program and the manufacturing industry. Safety is key and physical stamina is a must.
Tuition: $3,025; includes program costs, fees, certifications, books, and other course materials; students are responsible for supplies noted below where applicable
Dates:
- Fall 9/4/25 - 1/22/26 (no class 11/11, 11/27, 12/25, and 1/1)
- Spring 2/10/26 - 6/25/26 (no class 2/17, 2/19, 3/31, and 4/2)
Class Schedule: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Program length: 108 hours of in-person instruction + 10 hours of online coursework = 118 hours, 18 weeks
Location: BOCES 2 Career & Technical Education Center (WEMOCO), 3589 Big Ridge Road, Spencerport, NY 14559
Dress Code: 100% cotton jeans (no polyester mix), a 100% cotton or FR2 Rates shirt that covers the torso (shoulders, waistline, and chest), a 100% cotton welding cap (to protect hair and head area from burns), a welding helmet (fixed minimum shade of 10 or autoshade), welding gloves (gauntlet style protecting the hand and forearm), and steel or composite toe leather boots. Wear clothing that can get dirty.
- No clothing with offensive or inappropriate language or images.
- No open-toed or heeled shoes above ½ inch; no slippers, slides, crocs, loafers, boat shoes, or hey dude shoes.
- No dangling earrings, chains, bracelets, or necklaces (close fitting jewelry is ok).
- No loose or baggy clothing; no track pants, leggings, or sweats.
- Long hair must be tied back, and nails trimmed.
Supplies: Safety glasses are required and will be provided. Welding gloves and welding helmets are available for student use; however, it is recommended that students purchase their own.
Individuals in need of assistance meeting dress code guidelines should seek support from the student services advisor. Some financial assistance may be possible. Email [email protected] for more information.
Employment Outlook
Work as an entry level welder in a variety of industries including automotive, aerospace, medical devices, defense, electronics, and manufacturing. This course fulfills a portion of the required related instruction for apprenticeship programs.
For more information about welding as a career, click
here.
Pathways Forward
After completing this program, students can pursue:
- entry-level employment,
- additional career training opportunities,
- a two- or four-year degree, and/or
- engagement in an apprenticeship
Apprenticeships offer a unique blend of on-the-job training and classroom instruction and help you to excel in your chosen field. Learn how to become an apprentice through the New York Department of Labor or review training requirements specifically for the welding apprenticeship. Learn more about the benefits of an apprenticeship here.
Ready to Get Started?
Click the button below to sign up for the entrance assessment.