Advanced Manufacturing and Welding
Who builds the future?
The future of advanced manufacturing is exploding. Machines are getting smarter, the demand for products is increasing and the time we need to develop them is decreasing. Our region needs young professionals like you to design, program, operate, and maintain this technology.
Taught by industry experts, this Career Academy experience can position you to be a leader in the growing world of manufacturing, robotics, and welding.
Take a Closer Look
See inside this exciting, hands-on career academy and learn more about careers in welding, robotics, and advanced manufacturing.
Available at:
- Jones County Regional Center
- Kirkwood Regional Center at the University of Iowa
- Linn County Regional Center
- Washington County Regional Center – offers an additional Academy experience focused solely on welding.
WEL-208: Introduction to Fabrication
WEL-233: Introduction to Welding, Safety & Health of Welders
WEL-228: Print Reading and Welding Symbol Interpretation: SENSE1
WEL-244: Gas Metal Arc Welding Short Circuit Transfer
WEL-245: Gas Metal Arc Welding Spray Transfer
WEL-251: Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) for Carbon Steel
MFG-173: CNC Mill Operator – NIMS
MFG-174: CNC Lathe Operator – NIMS
Additional Welding Courses (offered through Washington County's welding-focused academy experience):
WEL-269: Thermal Cutting Processes
WEL-274: Shielding Metal Arc Welding
Exact courses may vary. Contact your high school counselor or the nearest Kirkwood location for full details.
Completing this academy experience earns students three industry-recognized welding certifications. In addition, it can be the starting point for various college certificates, diplomas, associates, bachelors, and graduate degrees.
If you’re planning to transfer to a four-year college or university after attending Kirkwood, find specific transfer information here.
Note: this academy experience requires a strict attendance policy in order to meet industry standards for certification. Personal protective equipment requirements outlined at orientation.
“When students can be put into a situation where they have hands-on learning and time to develop their strengths, that takes pressure off the workforce because employers won’t have to train new hires.”
Dane Dermody,
Kirkwood's assistant professor of Advanced Welding Technologies
Read more on the Kirkwood Online Newsroom.