Central Lakes College-Brainerd

What this program covers

Central Lakes College's Welding and Fabrication program (Brainerd campus) offers an A.A.S. degree and a diploma option. Processes taught include GMAW, SMAW, GTAW, and OAW (oxy-acetylene welding), along with cutting, metallurgy, and fabrication. The page states 90% of class time is spent practicing skills in the lab. Students compete in SkillsUSA and 'Behind the Mask' competitions. The page cites a median annual salary of $48,940 ($23.53/hour) and reports 45,800 annual U.S. job openings with 454,500 people currently employed in the field. Financial aid is available through CLC's financial aid office.

• Processes taught GMAW, SMAW, GTAW, OAW (oxy-acetylene welding)
• Credential types A.A.S. Degree; Diploma
• Schedule 90% of class time spent practicing in the lab (Brainerd campus)
• Facilities Lab-based instruction at the Brainerd campus; students compete in SkillsUSA and 'Behind the Mask' competitions
• Financial aid Financial aid available through CLC's financial aid office; CLC Promise program referenced for affordability

Source: https://www.clcmn.edu/academics/programs/welding/, retrieved 2026-08-05