Welding is a skill that’s in high demand, and whether you’re in Alabama or any other part of the U.S., getting hands-on training at a reputable school can make all the difference. Alabama 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 Alabama
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-Year ROI refers to the return on 1 year of school to 1 year of salary.
1. Gadsden State Community College
- Type: Public
- Location: Gadsden, AL
- Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
- In-State Tuition: $3,984
- Out-of-State Tuition: $6,984
- Median Earnings: $32,937
- 1-Year ROI: 827%
Gadsden State offers an affordable and comprehensive welding program, making it a top choice for aspiring welders. The school’s low tuition and high median earnings create an excellent return on investment, making this institution a solid option for those looking to get certified quickly and start working.
2. George C Wallace State Community College-Hanceville
- Type: Public
- Location: Hanceville, AL
- Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
- In-State Tuition: $4,920
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,670
- Median Earnings: $39,842
- 1-Year ROI: 810%
With one of the highest median earnings among Alabama welding programs, Wallace State Community College-Hanceville is a great option for students seeking a strong ROI. The program provides hands-on training and opportunities for both certificates and associate degrees.
3. John C Calhoun State Community College
- Type: Public
- Location: Tanner, AL
- Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
- In-State Tuition: $5,000
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,750
- Median Earnings: $38,192
- 1-Year ROI: 764%
John C Calhoun State Community College provides strong job prospects post-graduation with a high median salary for welding professionals. This school is an excellent option for those looking to maximize their return on investment through a high-quality welding program.
4. Southern Union State Community College
- Type: Public
- Location: Wadley, AL
- Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
- In-State Tuition: $4,920
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,670
- Median Earnings: $36,597
- 1-Year ROI: 744%
Southern Union offers a competitive welding program with flexible degree options. The school boasts strong median earnings after graduation and maintains a reasonable tuition cost, making it a solid choice for students looking to enter the welding industry.
5. Northeast Alabama Community College
- Type: Public
- Location: Rainsville, AL
- Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
- In-State Tuition: $4,920
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,670
- Median Earnings: $34,913
- 1-Year ROI: 710%
Northeast Alabama Community College provides affordable tuition and solid median earnings, making it a top contender for welding students seeking a cost-effective education. The strong ROI adds to its appeal for students entering the welding field.
6. Coastal Alabama Community College
- Type: Public
- Location: Bay Minette, AL
- Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
- In-State Tuition: $4,920
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,670
- Median Earnings: $34,894
- 1-Year ROI: 709%
Coastal Alabama Community College offers a solid program in precision metalworking with good median earnings and a strong return on investment. The affordable tuition and strong reputation make it a great choice for students pursuing a career in welding.
7. Shelton State Community College
- Type: Public
- Location: Tuscaloosa, AL
- Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
- In-State Tuition: $4,980
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,730
- Median Earnings: $35,014
- 1-Year ROI: 703%
Shelton State Community College offers a well-rounded welding program with flexible degree options. The school’s relatively low tuition and solid earnings post-graduation provide an attractive return on investment for welding students.
8. George C Wallace State Community College-Selma
- Type: Public
- Location: Selma, AL
- Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
- In-State Tuition: $4,620
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,370
- Median Earnings: $31,598
- 1-Year ROI: 684%
Wallace Community College in Selma offers strong training in precision metalworking at an affordable tuition rate. Although the median earnings are slightly lower compared to other schools, the ROI is still impressive given the low tuition costs.
9. Northwest-Shoals Community College
- Type: Public
- Location: Muscle Shoals, AL
- Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
- In-State Tuition: $5,011
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,761
- Median Earnings: $33,828
- 1-Year ROI: 675%
Northwest-Shoals Community College provides a solid welding program with a reasonable ROI. The tuition is slightly higher compared to other schools, but the strong job prospects and earnings potential make it a viable option.
10. Central Alabama Community College
- Type: Public
- Location: Alexander City, AL
- Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
- In-State Tuition: $4,990
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,740
- Median Earnings: $33,506
- 1-Year ROI: 671%
Central Alabama Community College offers good earnings potential for welding graduates. With affordable tuition and a respectable ROI, this school is a solid option for those looking to enter the field of welding.
11. H Councill Trenholm State Community College
- Type: Public
- Location: Montgomery, AL
- Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
- In-State Tuition: $4,830
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,580
- Median Earnings: $32,183
- 1-Year ROI: 666%
Trenholm State offers a solid return on investment with affordable tuition and steady post-graduation earnings. The school’s welding program equips students with the technical skills needed for entry-level positions and career advancement in the welding industry.
12. Lurleen B Wallace Community College
- Type: Public
- Location: Andalusia, AL
- Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
- In-State Tuition: $4,920
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,670
- Median Earnings: $32,307
- 1-Year ROI: 657%
Lurleen B Wallace Community College provides an affordable welding program with competitive median earnings. With a strong ROI and focus on precision metalworking, this school is an excellent choice for students looking for a budget-friendly welding education.
13. Bevill State Community College
- Type: Public
- Location: Jasper, AL
- Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
- In-State Tuition: $5,278
- Out-of-State Tuition: $9,278
- Median Earnings: $34,107
- 1-Year ROI: 646%
Bevill State offers flexible degree options with strong career outcomes for welding graduates. Despite slightly higher tuition, the school’s respectable earnings post-graduation ensure that students achieve a solid return on their educational investment.
14. George C Wallace Community College-Dothan
- Type: Public
- Location: Dothan, AL
- Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
- In-State Tuition: $4,860
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,610
- Median Earnings: $31,399
- 1-Year ROI: 646%
Wallace Community College-Dothan provides affordable tuition and solid job placement opportunities in welding. With steady post-graduation earnings, this school remains a strong contender for students pursuing a welding career.
15. Lawson State Community College
- Type: Public
- Location: Birmingham, AL
- Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
- In-State Tuition: $4,920
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,670
- Median Earnings: $31,701
- 1-Year ROI: 644%
Lawson State offers competitive tuition and respectable earnings for welding graduates. With a solid return on investment, this school is a good option for those looking to enter the welding industry with a cost-effective education.
16. Bishop State Community College
- Type: Public
- Location: Mobile, AL
- Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
- In-State Tuition: $4,920
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,670
- Median Earnings: $29,916
- 1-Year ROI: 608%
Bishop State offers an affordable welding program, though median earnings post-graduation are somewhat lower compared to other schools. However, the reasonable tuition still provides a decent ROI for students seeking entry into the welding trade.
17. Reid State Technical College
- Type: Public
- Location: Evergreen, AL
- Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
- In-State Tuition: $4,950
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,700
- Median Earnings: $28,982
- 1-Year ROI: 585%
Reid State Technical College offers a solid foundation in welding with slightly lower post-graduation earnings than other schools. However, the school remains a viable option for students seeking an affordable and accessible welding education.
18. J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College
- Type: Public
- Location: Huntsville, AL
- Degree Offered: Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, Associate’s Degree
- In-State Tuition: $4,890
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,640
- Median Earnings: $28,281
- 1-Year ROI: 578%
J. F. Drake State provides a versatile welding program with affordable tuition and strong technical training. While median earnings are slightly lower, the solid ROI makes it a good choice for students looking to get into welding quickly and cost-effectively.
How to Become a Welder in Alabama
Becoming a welder in Alabama 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 Alabama.
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 Alabama. 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 Alabama 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 Alabama
Once you’ve gained the necessary skills and certifications, you can begin applying for welding jobs in Alabama. 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 Alabama
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the low, average, and high welding salaries for Alabama are:
- Low: $33,000.00
- Average: $42,000.00
- High: $58,000.00
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 Alabama is , 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 Alabama?
Attending welding school in Alabama 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 Alabama 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 Alabama 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 Alabama, 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.