Welding is a skill that’s in high demand, and whether you’re in Wisconsin or any other part of the U.S., getting hands-on training at a reputable school can make all the difference. Wisconsin offers some of the best programs in the country, with schools providing instruction in various techniques such as TIG, MIG, and arc welding.
Learn more about these welding schools below as we provide insights on their tuition costs, earnings after graduation, and more, helping you make an informed decision when kickstarting your career.
Best Welding Schools in Wisconsin
We’ve ranked the following welding schools according to tuition costs and expected salaries after graduation, as reported by College Scorecard, ensuring graduates get the best return on their education. However, other variables when selecting a welding school could include location, degree level, and more. It’s advised that prospective students thoroughly research each program of choice to make the best decision for them.
1. Northcentral Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Wausau, WI
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $3,791
Out-of-State Tuition: $5,512
Median Earnings: $44,925
1-Year ROI: 1,185%
Northcentral Technical College offers the highest ROI among Wisconsin welding programs. With low tuition and strong post-graduation earnings, the program provides students with an excellent return on investment, making it an ideal choice for those pursuing careers in precision metalworking.
2. Lakeshore Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Cleveland, WI
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
In-State Tuition: $4,562
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,713
Median Earnings: $47,113
1-Year ROI: 1,033%
Lakeshore Technical College offers a well-rounded welding program with strong earnings after graduation. The combination of affordable tuition and competitive post-graduation salaries makes this an excellent option for students pursuing a certificate in precision metalworking.
3. Chippewa Valley Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Eau Claire, WI
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
In-State Tuition: $4,642
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,793
Median Earnings: $46,297
1-Year ROI: 997%
Chippewa Valley Technical College provides students with a strong return on investment for its precision metalworking program. With affordable tuition and strong earnings after graduation, this program ensures students are well-prepared for careers in welding.
4. Waukesha County Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Pewaukee, WI
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $4,728
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,879
Median Earnings: $46,894
1-Year ROI: 992%
Waukesha County Technical College offers both certificate and associate degree options in precision metalworking. With competitive tuition and solid post-graduation earnings, it provides an excellent return on investment for students entering the welding field.
5. Madison Area Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Madison, WI
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
In-State Tuition: $4,607
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,812
Median Earnings: $45,413
1-Year ROI: 986%
Madison Area Technical College provides a strong welding program that offers affordable tuition and good post-graduation earnings. The program ensures students gain a solid return on investment, preparing them for successful careers in welding.
6. Moraine Park Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Fond du Lac, WI
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $4,641
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,793
Median Earnings: $44,371
1-Year ROI: 956%
Moraine Park Technical College offers a flexible welding program that provides both certificate and associate degree options. With affordable tuition and reasonable post-graduation earnings, the program ensures a good return on investment for students.
7. Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Fennimore, WI
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
In-State Tuition: $4,571
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,731
Median Earnings: $43,470
1-Year ROI: 951%
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College offers a competitive ROI for its welding program. The combination of low tuition and solid post-graduation earnings makes this program a strong option for students pursuing a certificate in precision metalworking.
8. Northwood Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Shell Lake, WI
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
In-State Tuition: $4,570
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,624
Median Earnings: $43,406
1-Year ROI: 950%
Northwood Technical College provides a flexible and affordable welding program. With reasonable tuition rates and competitive post-graduation earnings, the program offers a good return on investment for students entering the welding industry.
9. Fox Valley Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Appleton, WI
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $4,826
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,977
Median Earnings: $45,684
1-Year ROI: 947%
Fox Valley Technical College offers both certificate and associate degree options in precision metalworking. With strong post-graduation earnings and affordable tuition, this program ensures a solid return on investment for students entering the welding field.
10. Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Green Bay, WI
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
In-State Tuition: $4,814
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,965
Median Earnings: $44,553
1-Year ROI: 925%
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College offers a comprehensive welding program with affordable tuition and solid post-graduation earnings. The program ensures a strong return on investment for students pursuing a career in precision metalworking.
11. Blackhawk Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Janesville, WI
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
In-State Tuition: $4,642
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,793
Median Earnings: $41,620
1-Year ROI: 897%
Blackhawk Technical College offers an affordable welding program that provides a solid return on investment. With reasonable tuition rates and competitive post-graduation earnings, students are well-prepared for careers in precision metalworking.
12. Mid-State Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Wisconsin Rapids, WI
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
In-State Tuition: $4,760
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,850
Median Earnings: $42,253
1-Year ROI: 888%
Mid-State Technical College offers a strong welding program with competitive tuition and solid post-graduation earnings. The program provides students with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in the welding industry.
13. Gateway Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Kenosha, WI
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
In-State Tuition: $4,766
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,917
Median Earnings: $40,264
1-Year ROI: 845%
Gateway Technical College offers a flexible welding program with affordable tuition. While post-graduation earnings are slightly lower than other programs, the program still provides a good return on investment for students entering the welding field.
14. Milwaukee Area Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Milwaukee, WI
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $4,867
Out-of-State Tuition: $7,018
Median Earnings: $41,113
1-Year ROI: 845%
Milwaukee Area Technical College provides students with a comprehensive welding program offering both certificate and associate degree paths. The program offers a reasonable return on investment with affordable tuition and solid post-graduation earnings.
15. Nicolet Area Technical College
Type: Public
Location: Rhinelander, WI
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
In-State Tuition: $4,642
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,962
Median Earnings: $38,643
1-Year ROI: 832%
Nicolet Area Technical College offers an affordable welding program with reasonable post-graduation earnings. The program provides students with a solid foundation in precision metalworking, making it a viable choice for those entering the field.
16. College of Menominee Nation
Type: Private, Nonprofit
Location: Keshena, WI
Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
In-State & Out-of-State Tuition: $6,200
Median Earnings: $25,853
1-Year ROI: 417%
College of Menominee Nation offers a welding program with both certificate and associate degree options. While the program has higher tuition compared to public institutions, it provides an entry point for students pursuing a career in welding, though post-graduation earnings are on the lower side.
How to Become a Welder in Wisconsin
Becoming a welder in Wisconsin is an excellent career choice if you’re interested in a hands-on job that’s in high demand. Welding professionals are needed in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and automotive repair. The path to becoming a welder generally involves a combination of education, certifications, and on-the-job experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you start your welding career in Wisconsin.
Step 1: Obtain a High School Diploma or GED
To start your welding career, you will need a high school diploma or its equivalent (GED). Most welding programs and apprenticeships require at least a high school level of education, with an emphasis on subjects such as math, science, and technical drawing, which are crucial for understanding welding techniques.
Step 2: Enroll in a Welding Program
The next step is to enroll in a welding training program at a technical school, community college, or dedicated welding school in Wisconsin. These programs typically cover different welding techniques like MIG, TIG, and arc welding, safety practices, and blueprint reading. Depending on the program, you can earn certifications, diplomas, or even associate degrees.
Step 3: Gain Hands-on Experience
While formal education is important, practical experience is crucial for becoming a skilled welder. Many welding programs offer hands-on training as part of the curriculum, but you can also seek out apprenticeships or internships to get additional real-world experience. Working under experienced welders will help you master techniques and understand workplace safety.
Step 4: Earn Welding Certifications
Certifications are often required by employers to ensure you meet industry standards. The most widely recognized certification for welders in Wisconsin is offered by the American Welding Society (AWS). You can earn certifications in various welding specialties, including structural welding, pipe welding, and more. Having these certifications increases your employability and allows you to work on more complex projects.
Step 5: Apply for Welding Jobs in Wisconsin
Once you’ve gained the necessary skills and certifications, you can begin applying for welding jobs in Wisconsin. Welders are in demand across various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and oil and gas. Be sure to tailor your resume and highlight your hands-on experience, certifications, and any specialized training you’ve completed.
Licensure and Certification Requirements
The American Welding Society (AWS) is the leading organization offering certifications for welders in the U.S. AWS certification is highly regarded by employers and required by many industries. Key certifications include:
- Certified Welder (CW): This certification demonstrates that a welder can work according to specific welding codes and industry standards. It covers multiple welding processes.
- Certified Welding Inspector (CWI): A certification for experienced welders looking to oversee and inspect welding work.
- Certified Welding Educator (CWE): For welders who wish to teach welding techniques.
AWS certifications are typically earned after passing both written and performance tests that demonstrate your skill level in various welding methods.
In addition to AWS certifications, welders may need specialized certifications depending on their field. Examples include:
- Pipe Welding Certification: For welders working with pipelines or in industries such as oil and gas.
- Structural Welding Certification: Required for welders working on buildings and other large structures.
- Pressure Vessel Welding Certification: Important for those working on boilers or other pressurized systems.
Some certifications may be required by employers or government agencies for specific projects, especially in industries like construction and aerospace.
Salary and Job Outlook in Wisconsin
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the low, average, and high welding salaries for Wisconsin are:
- Low: $37,000.00
- Average: $49,000.00
- High: $63,000.00
These figures can differ based on several variables including welding specialty, employer, years of experience, and more. To gain a better understanding of your salary expectations, it’s important to conduct research specific to your circumstances.
As for career outlook, the BLS reports that “employment of welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers is projected to grow 2 percent from 2023 to 2033, slower than the average for all occupations. Despite limited employment growth, about 45,800 openings for welders… are projected each year.”
While the average salary for welding in Wisconsin is $49,000, nationwide, welders in the U.S. earn an average of $45,000 – $47,000 per year, with top earners making upwards $63,000, and specialized fields such as underwater welding exceeding $100,000 annually.
Is Welding School Worth It in Wisconsin?
Attending welding school in Wisconsin is often worth the investment if you’re looking to enter a high-demand field with solid earning potential and opportunities for growth. Here are a few reasons why:
- Strong Job Demand in Welding: Welding is a crucial skill across many industries, including construction, manufacturing, automotive, oil and gas, and aerospace. The demand for skilled welders is steady nationwide, and this is true for Wisconsin as well. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the employment of welders will remain stable, with opportunities for growth in certain industries depending on the region.
- Competitive Salaries: Welding offers competitive pay, especially for those with advanced certifications and experience. While the average salary for welders nationwide is around $47,000 per year, wages can vary by state. For instance, states like Texas, California, and Alaska often have higher-than-average salaries due to the presence of industries like oil and gas and aerospace, which are high-paying sectors for welders.
- Hands-on, Skill-Based Learning: One of the main advantages of attending welding school is the hands-on learning experience. Welding requires precise skills and practice that can only be mastered through real-world application. Most welding schools provide access to equipment, tools, and industry-grade materials, preparing students to enter the workforce with the necessary technical skills.
- Certification and Advancement: Completing a welding program provides the necessary training to earn certifications, such as those from the American Welding Society (AWS), which are often required by employers. Certified welders typically have more job opportunities and can command higher salaries.
- Flexibility in Career Choices: Welders have a wide range of career paths. You can start with entry-level positions and advance to higher-paying, specialized fields such as pipeline welding, underwater welding, or welding inspection. Welding schools in Wisconsin typically offer various types of programs, from certificates to associate degrees, allowing students to choose the path that best suits their career goals.
With proper training and certifications, welding offers a stable and rewarding career path in various industries. If you’re considering welding school in Wisconsin, be sure to explore local job opportunities, salary expectations, and the types of welding programs available to make an informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How long does it take to complete welding school?
The length of welding school varies depending on the program and the type of certification or degree you’re pursuing. Typically, a certificate or diploma program can take anywhere from 6 to 18 months. If you pursue an associate degree in welding technology, it usually takes about 2 years to complete. Many schools offer flexible schedules, including part-time options, which can extend or shorten the overall duration.
Q: Do I need any prior experience or education to enroll in welding school?
Most welding schools do not require prior welding experience, but a high school diploma or GED is typically required. It helps to have a background in subjects like math, physics, and technical drawing, but welding programs are designed to train students from the ground up. Some schools may offer introductory classes to help you get comfortable with the basics before moving on to advanced techniques.
Q: What certifications can I earn through welding school, and are they necessary?
Welding schools offer various certifications, most notably those from the American Welding Society (AWS). AWS certifications, such as the Certified Welder (CW), are recognized industry-wide and often required by employers. Other certifications may include specialized fields like pipe welding, structural welding, or underwater welding. While not all welding jobs require certifications, having them significantly boosts your job prospects and earning potential.
