Houston offers several accessible welding training opportunities designed to help individuals launch stable, high-demand careers without financial barriers.
Whether through apprenticeship programs, grants, or workforce partnerships, each program presents unique benefits and eligibility requirements.
Explore the options below to find a program suited to your needs.
Welding Schools:
1. SERJobs Welding Training Program
SERJobs provides a 12-week welding training course designed to help low-to-middle-income individuals gain essential welding skills without the burden of traditional tuition costs. The program includes instruction in:
- Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)
- Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW)
- Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)
To qualify, participants must:
- Be 18 or older
- Pass a drug test
- Meet specific income criteria
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Covered for qualifying individuals |
| Program Duration | 12 weeks |
| Class Schedules | Flexible scheduling options |
| Location | 1710 Telephone Rd, Houston, TX 77023 |
| Phone | 713-773-6000 |
| Certifications | Certificate in Welding |
2. Royalty Welding Academy
Royalty Welding Academy promotes accessible welding classes for qualified students, emphasizing hands-on training provided by experienced welding professionals. While specifics on tuition assistance and eligibility criteria aren’t explicitly advertised, interested individuals should directly inquire for complete program details.
Program Highlights:
- Techniques: SMAW, GMAW, FCAW
- Experienced instructors providing technical training and mentorship
- Certification preparation included
Class Schedule:
- Monday-Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Interested individuals should contact the academy directly to learn more about tuition assistance options.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Class Schedules | Monday-Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Welding Classes Offered | GMAW, SMAW, FCAW, GTAW |
| Certifications | Certificate upon completion |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Financial Aid Options | Welding scholarships and financial aid available |
| Location | 14100 Bammel North Houston Road A3, Houston, TX 77014 |
| Phone | 832-359-7545 |
| [email protected] |
3. Pipe Fitters Local 211
Pipe Fitters Local 211 offers accessible welding apprenticeships, combining practical experience with evening or weekend classroom instruction. Apprentices gain extensive training in pipefitting, welding, and HVAC services, earning journeyman certification upon completion.
Training includes:
- Welding and pipefitting techniques
- HVAC services
- Welding fabrication and installation skills
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Tuition | NA (apprenticeship) |
| Program Duration | 5 years |
| Class Schedules | Night classes twice a week or weekend classes |
| Welding Classes Offered | Pipefitting, welding, HVAC services |
| Certifications | Journeyman certification |
| Program Focus | On-the-job training and classroom education |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Location | 1301 W. 13th Street Suite A, Deer Park, TX 77536 |
| Phone | (713) 644-5521 |
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4. Lone Star College
Lone Star College partners with Workforce Solutions through the NEG Grant Program to offer accessible welding training, specifically tailored for unemployed individuals. Participants receive comprehensive, hands-on instruction aimed at preparing them for immediate employment in the welding industry.
Program Highlights:
- Duration: 6-8 months
- Skills Taught: SMAW, GMAW, FCAW
- Location: Primarily at LSC-Conroe Center
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Grant-based (NEG Grant Program) |
| Program Duration | 6-8 months |
| Class Schedules | Varies by location and program |
| Welding Classes Offered | SMAW, GMAW, GTAW |
| Certifications | Workforce certificate in welding |
| Program Focus | Hands-on welding training for high-demand jobs |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Financial Aid Options | Tuition and books covered for eligible students |
| Location | LSC-Conroe Center: 5000 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77381 As well as other Lone Star College locations |
| Phone | (832) 813-6500 |
5. Apprenticeship Readiness Program
The Apprenticeship Readiness Program in Houston offers accessible, intensive training in welding and construction trades. Participants benefit from an “earn while you learn” structure, gaining practical skills and industry experience alongside classroom learning.
Program Structure:
- Initial Training: 3 weeks intensive program
- Apprenticeship: Paid positions post-training
- Typical Work Schedule: Full-time employment with evening classes
Benefits Include:
- Hands-on industry experience
- Regular income with healthcare and pension benefits
- Certification and skill development in trades
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Apprenticeship program |
| Program Duration | 3 weeks (initial training); 3-5 years for apprenticeship |
| Class Schedules | Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM for initial training; evenings for apprenticeship |
| Welding Classes Offered | Basic welding and construction trades training |
| Certifications | ARP/MC3 Certificate; OSHA 10 & CPR |
| Program Focus | Hands-on welding and construction skills |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Location | 1301 West 13th St., Ste. D, Deer Park, TX 77536 |
| Phone | (713) 926-4433 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | hgcbctc.org |
Our Thoughts
⏱️Quickest Path to Certification: SERJobs offers the shortest duration (12 weeks), ideal for those needing rapid employment.
🎓Most Comprehensive Training: Pipe Fitters Local 211 provides extensive, long-term training (5 years) with a clear path to journeyman status and full employment benefits.
💼Best for Immediate Employment: Lone Star College and Apprenticeship Readiness Program both have excellent support systems to transition directly into the workforce quickly.
📅Most Flexible Schedule: Royalty Welding Academy has extensive daily hours, ideal for students needing varied timeframes.
Consider your career goals, schedule flexibility, and the length of time you can dedicate to training. Contact the programs directly to discuss your situation and verify eligibility details.