Universal Technical Institute Welding Program

The Welding Technology program at UTI Houston is broken down into 12 courses, each building upon the skills learned in the previous modules. The goal is to develop a well-rounded understanding of different welding techniques, safety protocols, and equipment maintenance. Here’s a breakdown of the key courses offered:

• Introduction to Welding, Safety, and Careers: This initial course covers the basic types of welding methods and introduces students to personal protection and safety while operating welding equipment. Students also learn about plasma and oxy/fuel cutting equipment and explore various career paths in the welding industry.
• Principles of Welding: In this course, students are introduced to the different types of welding joints, positions, and symbols used in welding technology. They also learn about the properties and classification of metals, as well as how to inspect welds for defects.
• Gas Metal Arc Welding I (GMAW): Also known as MIG welding, this course teaches students how to set up and use GMAW equipment. Students practice basic welding positions like lap, tee, and butt joints in the flat and horizontal planes. This course also covers basic equipment maintenance.
• Shielded Metal Arc Welding I (SMAW): In this course, students are introduced to stick welding. They learn about electrode selection and equipment setup, practicing various welds on steel plate. The course also covers maintenance of SMAW equipment.
• Engineering and Fabrication: This course is designed to teach students how to read blueprints and interpret welding codes and standards. Students also gain practical skills in measurement and geometry, which are essential for planning and executing welding projects.
• Gas Metal Arc Welding II (GMAW): Building on the previous MIG welding course, students now practice vertical and overhead welds on both steel and aluminum. They also learn to maintain more complex welding equipment and set up different shielding gases.
• Shielded Metal Arc Welding II (SMAW): In this advanced stick welding course, students perform welding operations in the vertical and overhead positions. The course also covers carbon arc gouging on steel plate and advanced equipment maintenance.
• Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW): This course introduces students to both gas and gasless flux-cored welding. They learn how to set up, operate, and maintain FCAW equipment, practicing multiple weld types in all positions.
• Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW): Also known as TIG welding, this course focuses on developing precision welding skills on various metals using both direct and alternating current methods. Students practice welding in different positions and learn how to operate GTAW equipment safely.
• Pipe Welding: This specialized course teaches students how to weld pipes using multiple types of metal transfer methods. Students practice welding pipes in horizontal, rolling, and vertical positions, focusing on joint preparation and beveling techniques.
• Welding Applications I (GMAW & FCAW): In this course, students apply the skills they have learned to real-world projects. Using both MIG and flux-cored welding techniques, they fabricate specific projects, demonstrating their ability to weld in all positions.
• Welding Applications II (SMAW & GTAW): The final course in the program allows students to build projects using stick and TIG welding techniques. By the end of this course, students are able to perform multiple weld types and demonstrate their proficiency in different welding processes.

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The UTI welding program is designed to offer hands-on experience in a controlled environment. The use of Lincoln Electric’s state-of-the-art technology gives students access to the tools and equipment they will use in their professional careers. This industry alignment ensures that graduates are prepared for the challenges they’ll face in the workforce.

Another significant benefit is the program’s short duration. In just 36 weeks, students can acquire the skills needed to pursue a career in welding, which is appealing to those looking to enter the workforce quickly. Additionally, UTI provides support for job placement, with a dedicated team that helps students search for employment opportunities upon graduation.

One of the standout features of the program is its focus on multiple welding techniques. By offering training in four core processes (MIG, TIG, Stick, and Flux-Cored), UTI ensures that students are versatile and can work in a variety of industries, from construction to aerospace. The program also prepares students to advance in their careers, with potential roles like Certified Welding Inspector or Welding Project Manager available to those who continue to build their experience.

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