TECHNICAL SKILLS

• 5 different welding processes (SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW, OFW) 
• 3 different cutting processes (PAC, OFC, A-CAC)
• Blueprint reading
• Shop math and conversions
• Fabrication and parts fit-up

PROFESSIONAL SKILLS

• Leadership
• Strong work ethic
• Public speaking
• Organization
• Punctuality

CAREER PATHWAYS

• Fabricator 
• Cutting Table Operator
• Welder
• Sub-Arcs Operator
• Inspectors
• Supervisors
• Salesperson
• Engineers
• Metallurgist

CERTIFICATIONS

• GMAW Spray Transfer 2G
• SMAW 3G V-groove 7018
• GTAW 2F Steel Sheet Metal Code
• OSHA 10 Certification
• Volvo Manufacturing Certificate
• Forklift Operator Certification

COLLEGE CREDITS

College in the High School – Pennsylvania College of Technology (on hold until 2025-2026)

• Enrollment is at the beginning of each semester to take one or more of the following courses in your CareerTech program. Must have a 2.0 GPA.
  • WELD 114 – Shielded Metal Arc I  (2 credits)
  • WELD 116 – Shielded Metal Arc II (2 credits)
  • WELD 120 – Gas Metal Arc I (2 credits)
  • WELD 123 – Gas Tungsten Arc I (2 credits)
  • WELD 124 – Gas Metal Arc II ( 2 credits)
  • WELD 129 – Gas Tungsten Arc II (2 credits)
  • WELD 132 – Flux Cored (2 credits)
  • WELD 136 – Flux Cored II (2 credits)

Program of Study (POS) Statewide Articulations, SOAR

• CareerTech will produce the paperwork for each senior whether they are or are not eligible to be exempt from the following credits at the following post-secondary schools. More Information.
• The following may be pending renewal and may or may not be offered by May 2025.
  • Clarion University of PA – 9 credits
  • Community College of Allegheny County – 9 credits
  • Delaware County Community College – 10 credits
  • Greater Altoona Career & Technical Center – 9 credits
  • Harrisburg Area Community College – 13 credits
  • Johnson College – 9 credits
  • Northampton Community College – 10 credits
  • Pennsylvania College of Technology – 12 credits
  • Pennsylvania Highlands Community College – 11 credits
  • Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology – 9 credits
  • Westmoreland County Community College – 14 credits

Direct Articulations

• Saint Francis University, Francis Worldwide – 6 credits for an Associate’s degree, 12 credits for a Bachelor’s degree.
  • 25% tuition reduction
• Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology – 3 to 10 credits.

NOCTI

• Pass your written assessment to recieve your recommended credit waiver at the Awards Ceremony.
  • 3 credits – Recommended to be awarded in Manufacturing Technology, Metal Technology, Mechanical Technology or Welding Technology. 1 to 2 additional credits may be awarded based on successful completion of the performance component.

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Good work ethic (job-like atmosphere/work all day), strong skills in math, reading, and science, ability to follow directions.

UNIFORMS

A CareerTech blue or gray t-shirt is required (long sleeve preferred). In addition, the following CareerTech items may also be purchased: Crew neck sweatshirt, hoodie, or flannel. Hoodie and flannel ARE NOT TO BE WORN WHEN WORKING IN THE SHOP. Uniforms may be ordered online or purchased at the school store.

Jeans or cotton workpants without holes, tears, frays, or cuffs. No polyester clothing permitted.

Ankle height or higher leather, steel-toe work boots. No wet shoes at any time.

Students are not permitted to carry lighters or matches.

Long hair MUST be tied back.

Students may not wear a wristwatch, rings, dangling chains, or earrings.

OUT-OF-POCKET COSTS

• School Uniform
• Welding Kit – Approximately $175-400.  Multiple packages available. Students need an auto-darkening welding helmet with shades 9-13, including a grinding mode, heavy welding gloves, fire resistant jacket, and head covering. No tools are needed.

WHAT ELSE TO KNOW

Some of the best welding students have never welded before starting this program at CareerTech.