SOUTHWEST TRAINING CENTER

WELDING

Hands-on Training Using AWS Standards. Build Skills that Build America.

SKILLED. CERTIFIED. JOB-READY.


Master the art of welding with hands-on training in a high-demand trade at ABC Pelican β€” where precision, safety, and opportunity come together.

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What is a Welder?


Welders are the skilled professionals who build and repair the structures that shape our world. From pipelines and power plants to ships, skyscrapers, and industrial equipment β€” welders use heat and precision to fuse metal and bring blueprints to life.

On a typical day, welders may read and interpret technical drawings, prepare materials, and perform welds using processes like SMAW (stick) or GTAW (TIG). They work in a variety of environments β€” from fabrication shops to offshore rigs β€” ensuring the structural integrity and safety of everything they help create.

If you enjoy working with your hands, solving technical challenges, and seeing tangible results from your work β€” welding could be the perfect fit. It’s a trade that offers high earning potential, job flexibility, and a rewarding sense of craftsmanship.

*Click on image to enlarge, download, and print


Welders Work With:

πŸ”© Welding processes & equipment

πŸ—ΊοΈ Blueprints & fabrication drawings

⚑ Metal cutting & grinding tools

🦺 Personal protective equipment (PPE)


Why Choose ABC?


πŸ§‘β€πŸ« Experienced Instructors
Learn from certified welders with real-world industrial experience.

πŸŽ“ AWS-Aligned Classes
Train using American Welding Society standards β€” no NCCER.

🧰 Hands-On Every Day
Gain real skills in a state-of-the-art welding shop.

πŸ“ˆ Credentialed Career Progression
Each welding level includes certification aligned with AWS standards.

πŸ’Ό Career Connections
We partner with local contractors who regularly hire our grads.

πŸ”₯ Hands-On Welding Facility
Experience daily, hands-on practice in our dedicated training shop.

🎯 Job-Ready in Less Time
Our focused, level-based training gets you into the field quickly.

πŸ’Έ Affordable & Accessible
Low tuition costs β€” with discounts for member companies.

β€œABC provides training that can help individuals to stand out among their peers. They have the opportunity to become more knowledgeable and better prepared for careers in the construction industry.”
— Bryan Gerace (Turner Industries)

Program Overview

    • Students attend class two evenings (6–9 PM) or two afternoons (3–6 PM) per week.

    • The program is divided into three levels: SMAW Plate, SMAW Pipe, and GTAW Pipe (TIG Unrestricted).

    • It’s a self-paced program, so you advance as you master each level β€” not on a set schedule.

    • If you're ready to test out of a level mid-semester, you can move directly into the next β€” no waiting required.

    • On average, students complete the full program in 4–6 semesters (2–3 years), though some finish faster.

    • Our Welding program is competency-based and built around American Welding Society (AWS) standards β€” not a textbook curriculum.

    • Students learn and demonstrate hands-on skills in SMAW Plate, SMAW Pipe, and GTAW Pipe (TIG Unrestricted) welding.

    • As you master each process, you’ll have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized welding credentials.

    • There are no prerequisites β€” all skill levels are welcome.

    • $300

    Refunds/Cancellation Policy:

    A full refund will only be granted within the first week of class. If ABC cancels a course, a full refund will be issued.

Welding Flyer
Program Overview Flyer
Enrollment Checklist
Welding Supply List