The Welding and Metal Fabrication trade is a very important part of industry and construction trades.

The Welding and Metal Fabrication program at Bristol TEC is a one-year intensive training program. Those who successfully complete the training may convert the 900 clock hours credit toward a State approved apprenticeship training program. In addition, High school students can earn seven credits toward their high school graduation, (one credit each in English, Math and History and four credits in Shop).

(Selected students may be offered the opportunity to continue their training at BTEC for a second year at a more intensive level).

Work Based Learning experience is available to qualified students. This gives the student an opportunity to work in the field, at local companies, and receive credit for their work.

Students receive instruction in shop math, blueprint reading and welding safety. Students receive training in the following welding skills: oxyacetylene welding, cutting and brazing, shielded metal-arc welding, gas metal-arc welding and tungsten arc welding. Students will also be exposed to fabrication and repair using various types of metal. Students who successfully complete the course the course will be eligible for certification testing.

After learning the basics at Bristol TEC  students can continue their training in:  

ADVANTAGES OF THE TRADE
The welder may work alone or with a team, work indoors or outdoors, travel, or operate . your own business. Most welders work year round and can be exposed to a variety of work locations. After graduation you may wish to join an apprenticeship program, or if you have the ability and the interest, go directly to work as a journeyman or an Independent welder.  

Welders usually get from $ 8.00 to $11.00 an hour to start. Experienced welders can expect between $12.00 to $ 31.00 an hour.

JOB OUTLOOK
The job outlook is and has been good for all previous students who wanted to enter the trade. The Department of Labor forecasts indicate that the trade will probably remain at about the same level of opportunity for the foreseeable future.

It appears that there are many part-time jobs available for students of welding while they are in school.

Welding students have an excellent placement record, both inside and outside of the state of Connecticut.