Coastal Alabama Community College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Alabama / Coastal Alabama Community College
Coastal Alabama Community College – Thomasville, AL
Programs Offered
- Welding Technology (Certificate and Advanced Certification Options)
Program Overview
The Welding Technology Program at Coastal Alabama Community College provides comprehensive technical training that prepares students for skilled careers in welding, fabrication, and industrial maintenance. Through a blend of classroom instruction and extensive hands-on practice, students learn to interpret blueprints, master multiple welding processes, and perform high-quality welds that meet industry standards.
The program emphasizes precision, safety, and employability — giving graduates the skills required to enter Alabama’s growing manufacturing, shipbuilding, and construction industries.
Hands-On Training
Students train in state-of-the-art welding labs equipped with modern tools and technologies used by professional welders. Coursework includes:
- MIG Welding (Gas Metal Arc Welding – GMAW): Used extensively in manufacturing and production environments.
- TIG Welding (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding – GTAW): Applied in precision industries such as aerospace, automotive, and custom fabrication.
- Stick Welding (Shielded Metal Arc Welding – SMAW): Commonly used in construction, pipelines, and heavy industry.
- Fabrication & Metal Cutting: Training on layout, cutting, and assembly of metal components and structures.
- Blueprint Reading & Symbols: Understanding and interpreting welding diagrams, schematics, and codes.
Certification & Licensing Prep
- Preparation for American Welding Society (AWS) Certifications in various welding processes.
- OSHA Safety and workplace hazard prevention training integrated into coursework.
- Guidance on pursuing additional industry-specific welding certifications recognized by regional employers.
Career Paths & Salary Outlook
- Structural Welder: Fabricate and repair steel structures for buildings, bridges, and equipment.
- Pipe Welder: Specialize in joining pipelines and pressurized systems for industrial facilities.
- Fabrication Technician: Assemble custom metal components for manufacturing or automotive applications.
- Maintenance or Industrial Welder: Support ongoing repairs and operations in plants and refineries.
- Shipyard Welder: Perform marine welding for shipbuilding and maintenance along Alabama’s Gulf Coast.
Program Length
- Certificate Program: Approximately 1 year (two semesters)
- Advanced Welding Certification: Additional 1–2 semesters for specialization
Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Basic math and reading proficiency
- Ability to pass a drug screening
- Physical capability to stand, bend, and lift in an active lab environment
Cost & Financial Aid
Coastal Alabama Community College offers affordable tuition as part of the Alabama Community College System. Financial aid opportunities include:
- Federal and State Financial Aid (FAFSA)
- Skilled Trades Scholarships for technical program students
- Workforce Development Grants supporting high-demand career training
- Employer Tuition Reimbursement Programs for eligible workers
Student Support & Job Placement
Students benefit from career counseling, resume-building workshops, and employer networking events offered through the college’s Workforce Development Center. Strong relationships with local employers in manufacturing, shipbuilding, and construction industries enhance job placement opportunities upon graduation.
Location
The Thomasville campus of Coastal Alabama Community College serves southwest Alabama with specialized facilities for technical education. Its welding program supports regional workforce needs and provides students access to modern tools, small class sizes, and personalized instruction from experienced professionals.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Coastal Alabama Community College (Bay Minette, AL) — U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Program Type: Primarily Certificate or Associate Programs
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Median Earnings (10 yrs)
Time to Earn It Back
ROI Grade
About this data: Tuition and earnings are averages from federal College Scorecard data for comparable programs at Coastal Alabama Community College. Actual costs may vary by program length, residency, and supplies. Earnings reflect median salaries ten years after entering the institution. This helps estimate how quickly your training can pay off in real-world wages.