Helena College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Montana / Helena College
Helena College – Welding Technology
Programs Offered
- Welding Technology Certificate of Applied Science (CAS)
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Welding Technology
Program Overview
Helena College offers a comprehensive Welding Technology program that provides students with the technical knowledge and hands-on experience needed to succeed in welding, fabrication, and metalworking careers. The curriculum emphasizes core welding processes, blueprint reading, safety standards, and modern fabrication techniques. Students train in a professional welding lab equipped with industry-standard tools and equipment, preparing them for immediate employment or further advancement in the skilled trades.
Graduates are qualified for welding positions in industries such as construction, manufacturing, energy, transportation, and industrial repair. The program also prepares students for industry-recognized welding certifications that enhance employability and earning potential.
Hands-On Training
Helena College’s welding labs provide students with extensive practical training in areas such as:
- MIG (Gas Metal Arc Welding), TIG (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding), and Stick (Shielded Metal Arc Welding)
- Blueprint reading and welding symbol interpretation
- Fabrication and assembly of metal components
- Cutting processes including oxy-fuel and plasma arc cutting
- Weld inspection, testing, and quality control
- Shop and workplace safety following OSHA guidelines
Students gain valuable experience working on individual and team-based projects that reflect real-world industry practices.
Certifications & Career Opportunities
- Preparation for American Welding Society (AWS) Certification exams
- Opportunities to earn OSHA Safety Certification
- Entry-level career paths include structural welder, pipe welder, fabrication specialist, and welding inspector
Graduates are employed across a range of sectors including industrial maintenance, construction, heavy equipment repair, and metal manufacturing.
Program Length
- Certificate of Applied Science (CAS): 1 Year (Two Semesters)
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS): 2 Years (Four Semesters)
Admission Requirements
- Open enrollment; high school diploma or GED preferred
- Mechanical aptitude and an interest in fabrication or metalwork
- Ability to follow safety procedures and work in hands-on environments
Financial Aid & Support Services
Helena College offers financial aid options including federal aid, scholarships, and workforce training grants. Students benefit from small class sizes, individualized instruction, and career placement support that connects them directly with employers seeking certified welders across Montana and the region.
Location
Located in Helena, Montana, the college serves as one of the state’s key technical training centers. Its Welding Technology program maintains close partnerships with regional employers, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of Montana’s growing construction and manufacturing industries.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Helena College University of Montana (Helena, MT) — 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 Helena College University of Montana. 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.
Step-by-Step Career Guides
The programs and apprenticeships listed on this page relate to hands-on skilled trades. Explore the guides below to learn about training paths, licensing, salaries, and what to expect in each career field.