Welding Technology Program in Erie, PA
Diploma
Length: 12 months
EIT Welding Technology Program
Upon completion of the Welding Technology career training program, students will understand the common welding processes and applications at the foundation, intermediate and advanced levels.
Students will take welding classes that include blueprint reading, gas metal arc welding, gas tungsten arc welding, pipe welding, and welding fabrication.
Students will be qualified for entry level employment in the welding field in positions which include Welder, Welding Specialist, Welding Technologist or Welding Engineer.
Our school contains 26 welding booths to train in, each equipped with Lincoln Electric Welding equipment.
Course Outline
Welding Technology Job Placement Sites
Below is a list of employers who recently hired graduates of the Welding Technology Program
- Acutec Precision Machining Inc., Meadville, PA
- McShane Welding, Erie, PA
- Modern Industries, Erie, PA
- Erie Weld Products, Erie, PA
- Advanced Welding Tech., Erie, PA
- Erie Fence, Erie, PA
- CSI Industries, Fairview, PA
- FSG Signs, Austin, TX
- Ridg-U-Rak, North East, PA
- HWC Fabrications, North East, PA
- American Railing Systems, Erie, PA
- B.C Fabricators, Inc., Lake City, PA
- Quality Manufacturing Systems, Lakewood, NY
- Chase Manufacturing, Corry, PA
- Corry Manufacturing, Corry, PA
- Industrial Welding and Fabrication Co., Jamestown, NY
- Blackstone Advanced Technologies, Jamestown, NY
- Keystone Tool and Die, Olean, NY
Video: EIT Welding Technology Program
Welding Technology – Skilled Trade Program in Erie, PA
Welding is the backbone of industries like construction, manufacturing, energy, and automotive. Every bridge, ship, and steel frame relies on skilled welders to bring essential infrastructure to life. In today’s fast-moving economy, welders remain some of the most sought-after professionals in the skilled trades.
At Erie Institute of Technology, our Welding Technology Program offers hands-on training designed to prepare you for a high-demand career in as little as a year. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or looking for a reliable career change, welding is a direct path to rewarding, well-paying work.
In this guide, you’ll learn about welding technology, how EIT’s welding programs train future professionals, and why welding continues to offer strong job security and opportunities across the U.S.
What Is Welding Technology?
Welding is the process of joining materials — typically metal — using high heat, pressure, or both. It’s a critical component of industries that build, manufacture, repair, or maintain structures and equipment.
Welders are highly trained professionals who use different techniques to safely and precisely fuse metal components. These methods include:
- MIG (Gas Metal Arc Welding) – Known for its speed and ease of use, it is ideal for large-scale production.
- TIG (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding) – Offers superior precision for thin metals or complex joints.
- Stick Welding (Shielded Metal Arc Welding) – A rugged technique used outdoors and on construction sites.
Educational Resources
Article: What is Welding?
Industries Where Welding Is Commonly Used
The four industries where welding is most commonly used are:
- Construction – Buildings, pipelines, bridges
- Automotive – Manufacturing and repairs
- Energy – Oil, gas, and renewable infrastructure
- Shipbuilding and Aerospace – Aircraft, naval vessels, and satellites
EIT’s Approach to Welding Education
At EIT, our welding programs emphasize real-world skill-building. You’ll learn:
- In a fully equipped welding lab
- With certified instructors who have industry experience
- Through hands-on projects, safety protocols, and technical instruction
This immersive training environment prepares you for the real conditions and expectations of the welding industry.
Welding School vs. Traditional College
If you’re thinking about career training, consider weighing the benefits of an accredited welding program against a traditional four-year college degree.
| Factor | Welding School | Traditional College |
| Time to Completion | 12 months | 4+ years |
| Cost | Lower tuition and fewer fees | Higher tuition, books, and living expenses |
| Learning Style | Hands-on, skills-based training | Lecture-heavy, theoretical instruction |
| Outcome | Diploma + certifications | Bachelor’s degree (non-specialized skills) |
| Career Entry Timeline | Immediate job readiness | Often requires internships or grad school before you become hireable |
EIT’s Welding Technology Program offers a faster, more affordable way to enter a stable and growing trade. You don’t need to wait four years to begin earning income.
What You’ll Learn in EIT’s Welding Technology Program
The Welding Technology Program at EIT is designed to make you job-ready from day one. You’ll develop a deep understanding of safety practices, welding theory, and multiple welding methods.
Core Areas of Study
- Welding safety and occupational best practices
- MIG, TIG, Stick, and Flux-Cored Arc welding processes
- Blueprint interpretation
- Metallurgy and the properties of metals
- Thermal cutting (plasma and oxyfuel)
- Pipe welding and structural welding
Sample Courses
- Mathematics for Welding I
- Introduction to Arc Welding Processes
- Safety and Shop Procedures
- Welding Inspection Fundamentals
- Pipe Code and Welding Techniques
Every course includes hands-on lab components where students build real welds and practice industry techniques under expert supervision.
Benefits of a Welding Career
Choosing a career in welding means entering a field where your skills are always in demand and your work leaves a lasting impact.
- Quick Entry into the Workforce
Most welding programs can be completed in a year with immediate earning potential. - Strong Job Demand Nationwide
Welders are needed in nearly every state, especially in manufacturing hubs and areas with ongoing infrastructure projects. - High Earning Potential
Depending on the path you take, specialized welding roles can command generous salaries. - Union and Field Work Opportunities
Many welding jobs offer union benefits, travel assignments, and per diem compensation. - Skill Portability
Welders can transition their skills between various industries, including construction, energy, transportation, and more. - Challenging and Rewarding Work
Welding combines physical labor with mental engagement — there’s never a boring day on the job.
With just a short-term investment in training, you can build a career that’s financially stable, physically engaging, and full of long-term potential.
Is Welding The Right Career For You?
Welding careers are ideal for individuals who:
- Enjoy working with their hands
- Prefer active, physically engaging jobs over desk work
- Take pride in building and fixing essential structures
- Are attentive to detail and safety procedures
Ideal Candidates Include:
- Recent high school graduates
- Adults exploring new career paths
- Military veterans seeking civilian trades
- Tactile learners who excel with hands-on instruction
Welder Salary Data
Welding careers offer job stability and rewarding income potential.
Types of Welders
- Welder/Fabricator
- Structural Welder
- Pipefitter
- Welding Inspector
- Maintenance Welder
- Industrial Construction Welder
Salary Trends
- According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 45,000 new welding jobs are projected to open each year through 2033.
- Like other tradespeople, welders can significantly increase their income by honing their skills and gaining experience. Salaries vary depending on specialization and geographic location.
Factors That Influence Earnings:
- Welding certifications (AWS, NCCER)
- Industry (energy, construction, manufacturing, aerospace)
- Willingness to travel or relocate for contract work
- Specialization in high-risk or technical welding processes
Why Choose EIT for Welding Training?
Erie Institute of Technology is committed to helping students launch successful, long-term careers. Our welding program combines technical instruction with real-world experience to ensure you graduate job-ready.
- Modern welding labs with industry-grade equipment
- Instructors with years of real welding and fabrication experience
- Preparation for industry-recognized certifications
- Career placement services, resume support, and interview prep
- Small class sizes for personal attention and mentorship
- Financial aid options and flexible class scheduling
- Strong relationships with local employers and unions
Program Features
- Externships with local fabrication shops and contractors
- Employer partnerships that provide direct hiring pipelines
EIT doesn’t just teach you how to weld — we help you become a confident, capable tradesperson employers are excited to hire.
EIT Welding Technology Program Application
Getting started at Erie Institute of Technology is straightforward, and our admissions team is here to support you at every step. Whether you’re fresh out of high school or exploring a new direction in life, we make enrollment simple and stress-free.
Welding is a high-demand, hands-on career that offers stability, skill growth, and long-term earning potential. With the right welding program, you can go from the classroom to the job site in just a year.
Why Choose Welding at Erie Institute of Technology?
- Short-term training with real-world outcomes
- Expert instructors with industry experience
- Strong job placement assistance
- Flexible schedules and financial aid options
- A trusted name in technical education in Erie, PA
How to Apply:
- Contact our admissions team to discuss your goals and schedule a campus visit.
- Complete your application and submit all required documentation.
- Apply for financial aid, if needed, with the help of our student services team.
- Begin your training in our fully equipped welding labs.
Your Career Success Starts Here
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Try a Trade
Try a Trade is a new initiative at EIT where the public can schedule a time to come to the school and under no obligation, complete a small introductory project in the program of their choice.
If you've ever considered beginning a career in any of the fields we offer, schedule a date to come in and Try a Trade!
Testimonials
Al Wassel
President
PSB Industries
We have been very pleased with the graduates we have hired from EIT’s Welding Technology program.
Douglas Frank
Welding Graduate
Ridg-U-Rak
I liked the teachers at EIT and the way in which they taught me.