Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Mississippi / Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College – Gulfport, MS
Programs Offered
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Welding Technology
- Certificate in Welding and Cutting Technology
Program Overview
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC) offers a Welding and Cutting Technology program designed to train students in the essential processes of welding and fabrication. Coursework includes instruction in MIG, TIG, and Stick welding, blueprint reading, metal cutting, and welding safety. Students gain hands-on experience using industry-standard equipment in lab environments that simulate real-world job settings.
The program prepares graduates for careers in shipbuilding, construction, manufacturing, and maintenance industries across the Gulf Coast. Emphasis is placed on welding codes, inspection standards, and fabrication skills to ensure students meet professional industry requirements.
Hands-On Training
Students spend significant time working in welding labs developing practical skills in:
- Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW / MIG)
- Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW / TIG)
- Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW / Stick)
- Oxy-fuel and Plasma Cutting
- Welding Blueprint Reading and Fabrication Techniques
Certifications & Career Preparation
- Prepares students for American Welding Society (AWS) certifications
- Emphasizes OSHA safety standards and proper welding procedures
- Graduates are qualified for entry-level welding and fabrication positions
Career Paths & Employment Opportunities
- Structural and Pipe Welder
- Fabrication Welder
- Maintenance or Industrial Welder
- Welding Inspector or Quality Control Technician (with additional experience)
Graduates from MGCCC’s welding program find employment in shipyards, construction firms, industrial plants, and manufacturing facilities throughout Mississippi and the Gulf Coast region.
Program Length
- Certificate Program: Typically 1 year
- Associate of Applied Science Degree: Approximately 2 years of full-time study
Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Basic math and mechanical aptitude
- Physical ability to work in a welding environment
Financial Aid & Student Support
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College offers several financial assistance options, including federal financial aid, workforce training grants, and scholarships for technical students. Career services are also available to help graduates connect with local employers and apprenticeship opportunities.
Location
Located in Gulfport, Mississippi, MGCCC serves students across the coastal region through its network of campuses and training centers. The Welding and Cutting Technology program is offered in modern labs equipped with advanced welding stations and fabrication tools to ensure students are prepared for success in today’s workforce.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (Perkinston, MS) — 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 Mississippi Gulf Coast 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.