June 24, 2016 at 1:34 p.m.
Nicolet College to launch evening welding classes this fall
Nicolet College to launch evening welding classes this fall
"By having the entire program available evenings, we're looking to open the door to a great career for many individuals who might not otherwise have had the opportunity," said Jeff Labs, interim dean of Trade, Industry and Apprenticeships at Nicolet.
Students will start with classes to earn the entry-level, 17-credit welding/maintenance and fabrication technical diploma. The credits for this college credential can then be applied to the more advanced 34-credit welding technical diploma, which takes one year to complete.
"What we often see is students will earn the first diploma, obtain a job working in the field, and continue taking classes to advance in their position," Labs said. "It's a great way to make money while at the same time to build the foundation for future advancement."
A wage survey of the 2015 Nicolet welding graduates showed a starting median pay of $33,277 a year. This can grow considerably with experience and continued skill development, Labs added.
Students will learn how to use robotic and automated welding equipment as well as traditional methods such as gas and shield metal arc, fluxed core, and gas tungsten arc welding.
Others skills will include metal cutting, blueprint reading, weld inspection and testing, and safety in the manufacturing environment.
Recent graduate Jason Sheltrown said completing Nicolet's welding program was "one of the best moves I ever made in my life. It definitely opened a lot of doors for me. It's a great program. I can't say enough about it. We had a great team and great instructors."
Sheltrown now works full-time for a Northwoods manufacturer.
Fall semester classes at Nicolet start Sept. 1.
For more information about Nicolet's Welding program, visit nicoletcollege.edu or call (715) 365-4493; TDD 1-800-947-3529 or 711.
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