MASON CITY – In response to the high demand for production welders in the area, North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC) is offering a 45–hour, non-credit Production Welding course.
This course, which is being offered a second time this year due to high demand, will provide participants with the skills necessary for entry level manufacturing welding with the Gas Metal Arc Welding (MIG) process. “Manufacturing today is an efficient, high-tech operation and welders are the backbone of the industry,” said Terry Schumaker, NIACC Dean of Continuing Education and Economic Development.
According to employment trends, the state of Iowa is expected to see a 14 percent increase of welding positions available through 2020.
“This is another option for those interested in a career in welding to quickly get the skills they need to get a good job,” Schumaker said. “This is different than the welding program NIACC offers as a full year diploma program in that it has a very concentrated focus on the specific welding skills used in a manufacturing setting.”
Participants will gain an understanding of proper welding techniques and procedures for welding structural carbon steel with the MIG process. Skills will be developed in flat, horizontal and vertical position welding of fillet welds. Welder qualification testing is an available option and will be attempted at the level where success can be attained. Personal protective equipment will be provided to students.
To learn more, a public information session will be held January 9 at 10:00 a.m. at the IowaWORKS office 600 S. Pierce Ave., Mason City. Tuition assistance is available to those who qualify. Details will be provided at the information session.
This course meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning January 28 and will be offered at times conducive to people who work during the day. This class is scheduled to meet on these dates:
– Tuesdays: January 28, February 4, 11, 18, 25, March 4
– Thursdays: January 30, February 6, 13, 20, 27
All classes meet on the NIACC campus from 5:00- 9:00 p.m. in the Buettner Careers Building, room 164. For more information and to register, call the NIACC Continuing Education Division at 1-641-422-4358. Course #91506
