Underwater welding programs in Houston offer specialized training for individuals looking to pursue a career in one of the most demanding and rewarding sectors of welding. Combining commercial diving expertise with advanced welding skills, these programs prepare students for underwater environments where they may be required to weld or cut in confined and hazardous conditions. The training typically covers both wet and dry welding techniques, including hyperbaric welding, which is performed in pressurized chambers.
With salaries ranging from $51,000 to over $100,000 depending on experience, underwater welding can be a lucrative career path for those who meet the rigorous physical and technical demands. Learn more about these Houston programs, including certification options, class schedules, and job placement opportunities.
The Ocean Corporation
The Ocean Corporation, located in Houston, Texas, offers an Ultimate Diver Training program that focuses on commercial diving and underwater welding. This program is designed to prepare students for challenging careers in the offshore oil and gas industry, inland diving, underwater welding, and other commercial diving fields. With over 50 years of experience, the school has built a reputation for providing hands-on training and producing competent, highly skilled professionals who meet industry demands.
Comprehensive Curriculum
The Ultimate Diver Training program covers a wide variety of topics that are essential for success in commercial diving and underwater welding. Students will gain real-world experience in key areas such as offshore oilfield diving operations, surface and underwater welding and cutting, mixed-gas diving, and offshore safety. The program is designed to be completed in just 30 weeks, allowing students to fast-track their way into the commercial diving industry without the need for unrelated general education courses.
This course provides the knowledge and skills required for hazardous environment interventions, underwater nondestructive testing (NDT), and recompression chamber operations. The training focuses heavily on the technical aspects of underwater welding and diving, which is one of the reasons the program has gained prominence. The school emphasizes practical, hands-on training, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the unique challenges of working in both inland and offshore environments.
Welding Classes Offered
The Ultimate Diver Training program includes a broad range of subjects that provide students with comprehensive skills applicable to commercial diving and underwater welding. Below are the key classes and skills covered:
- Offshore Oilfield Diving Operations
- Inland Diving Operations
- Surface and Underwater Welding and Cutting
- Mixed-Gas and Lock-Out Diving
- Recompression Chamber Operations
- Hazardous Environment Intervention
- Rigging Certification
- Offshore Survival and Safety
- Underwater Nondestructive Testing (MT & UT Level I & II)
- Operation of Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV)
Each of these components is designed to prepare students for the specific tasks they will face in the field. Offshore oilfield diving operations, for example, are critical to maintaining and constructing subsea infrastructure like pipelines and oil platforms. Inland diving operations, on the other hand, involve tasks like inspecting bridges, dams, and water towers. The underwater welding aspect focuses on both structural and pipeline welding, giving students the opportunity to practice these skills in a real-world context.
Practical Training Scenarios
The Ocean Corporation places a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on training to ensure that students are fully prepared for the types of challenges they will encounter on the job. Practical training scenarios at the school include:
- Lift Bag Operations: This involves using inflatable lift bags to manipulate heavy objects underwater, a common task in salvage and construction operations.
- Zero Visibility Training: Students are trained to operate in environments where they may have little or no visibility, which is often the case in real-world diving operations.
- Operating Decompression Chambers: Understanding how to safely operate a decompression chamber is vital in diving operations to ensure the health and safety of the divers.
- Offshore Safety and Survival Training: Students are taught how to survive in dangerous offshore environments, including survival techniques, safety protocols, and emergency responses.
- Open Water Commercial Dives: Students perform dives in a variety of real-world settings, including open water dives at different locations to simulate the actual work they will be doing offshore.
These training scenarios give students a taste of what it’s like to work in the field, where conditions can change rapidly, and divers must be prepared for anything. By the time they graduate, students will have not only learned the theory behind underwater welding and commercial diving but also gained practical experience in a safe, controlled environment.
Diverse Employment Opportunities
Graduates of The Ocean Corporation’s Ultimate Diver Training program have numerous employment opportunities, both in offshore and inland environments. Offshore divers typically work on oil platforms, pipelines, and underwater structures in the Gulf of Mexico, one of the busiest regions for commercial diving in the world. Inland divers, on the other hand, may work on projects such as bridge inspection, nuclear plant maintenance, water tower repairs, and dam inspections.
Commercial divers are highly sought after for the construction, inspection, and repair of subsea infrastructure. They are essential to the oil and gas industry, especially in maintaining the infrastructure that supports offshore drilling and production. Inland divers have equally important roles in ensuring the safety and maintenance of critical infrastructure.
Though underwater welding only accounts for a small portion of a commercial diver’s job—roughly 1% of all tasks—welding skills are highly valuable. Divers with expertise in welding can expect to work on structural repairs and new construction projects that require precision and durability.
Career Advancement and Industry Recognition
The Ocean Corporation emphasizes career advancement based on individual performance. Those who excel in their work can quickly move up in the field, as advancement is often determined by competence and experience rather than tenure. The program is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to be successful right out of school, and the school’s career placement services help graduates find employment in their chosen field.
The Ocean Corporation boasts over 150 years of combined industry experience among its instructors, who provide valuable insights and mentorship to their students. With such a depth of knowledge on hand, students are prepared to succeed and advance in their careers.
Facilities and Instructors
The school’s facilities are designed to mimic real-world conditions as closely as possible. The training grounds include large decks, hyperbaric decompression chambers, and well-equipped dive complexes. The campus is located in Houston, providing students with access to a thriving job market, and is within 300 miles of many major commercial diving companies. The location is strategic, as it places students close to a range of potential employers and industry connections.
Additionally, the instructors at The Ocean Corporation bring over 150 years of collective experience to the classroom and training areas. Their practical knowledge and real-world experience help to create a learning environment that prepares students for the challenges they will face in the field.
Financial Aid and Veterans Support
The Ocean Corporation provides financial aid to qualifying students. The school is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, which allows it to offer federally-backed student loans and other forms of financial assistance. Additionally, the school is approved and regulated by the Texas Workforce Commission. These accreditations ensure that students are receiving a high-quality education that meets industry standards.
For veterans and active-duty military members, The Ocean Corporation has been a military-friendly school since 2014. Special career training opportunities are available to military personnel, helping them transition into civilian careers with valuable skills in commercial diving and underwater welding.
Why Choose This School?
The Ocean Corporation offers one of the most comprehensive commercial diving and underwater welding programs in the country. Its focus on practical, real-world training ensures that students are prepared for the demands of the industry. The program’s 30-week duration makes it efficient for those looking to enter the workforce quickly, while the school’s career placement services provide valuable support to graduates. However, the fast-paced nature of the program may be challenging for students who prefer a slower, more deliberate learning environment. Financial aid and veterans’ support make it accessible to a wide range of students.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Contact the school for details |
| Program Duration | 30 weeks |
| Class Schedules | Full-time, 5 days per week |
| Welding Classes Offered | Surface and underwater welding, cutting, topside and underwater welding |
| Certifications | ADCI Entry Level Tender/Diver Card, AWS D3.6M-Class C Standard, ROV, NDT (MT & UT Level I & II) |
| Program Focus | Commercial diving and underwater welding, offshore and inland diving, hazardous environment operations |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Financial Aid Options | Available for those who qualify |
| Location | 10840 Rockley Rd, Houston, TX 77099 |
| Phone | (800) 321-0298 |
| Website | oceancorp.com |
Outside of Houston:
Professional Diver Training Center
The Professional Diver Training Center, based in Alvarado, Texas, offers a Commercial Diver Program that prepares students for careers in underwater welding and commercial diving. With a 700-hour program that exceeds the industry-standard requirements set by the ADCI (Association of Diving Contractors International) and the ANSI (American National Standards Institute), the school equips students with practical skills needed to excel in the field. The course covers everything from diving physics and medicine to underwater welding and industrial safety. The program is specifically designed to meet the demands of both inland and offshore commercial diving operations.
Program Details and Structure
The Commercial Diver Program at the Professional Diver Training Center is structured to provide students with a mix of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. Spanning 16.5 weeks, students attend classes five days a week. The curriculum is centered around key topics such as hyperbaric chamber operations, diving equipment maintenance, underwater welding and cutting, and offshore safety protocols. Students also undergo rigorous training in seamanship, rigging, and other essential trade skills that are critical for success in the commercial diving industry.
Cost of the Program: The program costs $19,950, with financing options available for those who qualify.
Program Duration: 16.5 weeks of intensive, full-time training.
Upcoming Classes: Classes start regularly, with multiple sessions scheduled throughout the year to accommodate students’ needs.
Welding Classes Offered
The program includes training in surface and underwater welding, a vital skill set for divers working in offshore and inland environments. The welding training is aligned with the AWS D3.6M-Class C Standard, ensuring that graduates are equipped to perform high-quality welds under water. Additionally, students gain certification in a wide range of related areas, preparing them for diverse roles in the industry. Here’s a breakdown of the welding and related courses offered:
- Surface and Underwater Welding and Cutting
- Industrial and Offshore Safety Training
- Diving Equipment Operations and Maintenance
- Underwater Nondestructive Testing
- Hyperbaric Chamber Operations
Certifications Earned
Students who complete the program will earn a variety of industry-recognized certifications, making them more competitive in the job market. These include:
- ADCI Entry-Level Tender/Diver Certification
- Underwater Welding Course Completion Certificate (AWS D3.6M-Class C)
- Divers Alert Network (DAN) Diving First Aid & Oxygen Provider
- Open Water Scuba Certification
- Kirby Morgan Operator/User Training Certificate
- Hyperbaric Chamber Operator Certification
- API Rigger Certification
- OSHA 10 – Construction Card
- Forklift Operator Certification (OSHA Standard 29CFR)
These certifications demonstrate the broad range of skills that students gain from the program, ensuring they are prepared for various roles in the commercial diving industry.
Prerequisites
Before enrolling in the Commercial Diver Program, prospective students must meet the following criteria:
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Hold a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Be in good physical condition, as commercial diving is physically demanding.
- Successfully complete a swim evaluation.
Pass an ADCI dive physical to ensure there are no preexisting conditions that would disqualify them from diving.
While these prerequisites ensure that students are physically and mentally prepared for the rigors of commercial diving, the school also offers support through math evaluations and tutoring for those who need a refresher on specific subjects.
Training Environment and Facilities
The Professional Diver Training Center provides a comprehensive training environment designed to mimic real-world conditions. The facility features state-of-the-art hyperbaric chambers, diving platforms, and the latest underwater welding equipment. Practical training is a key focus, with students engaging in:
- Lift Bag Operations: Teaching how to handle heavy objects underwater with precision.
- Zero Visibility Training: Preparing students for the harsh realities of underwater work where visibility can be near zero.
- Operating Hyperbaric Chambers: Ensuring students know how to manage hyperbaric chambers safely for both medical and diving purposes.
- Offshore Safety and Survival Training: Critical for anyone looking to work in hazardous offshore environments.
By simulating real-life working conditions, students gain the confidence and skills they need to be job-ready upon graduation.
Career Opportunities and Placement Assistance
Graduates of the Professional Diver Training Center’s Commercial Diver Program are well-prepared for careers in both offshore oil and gas operations and inland commercial diving. The school provides career placement assistance, helping students connect with employers and transition smoothly into the workforce. The program’s close alignment with industry standards, combined with the school’s job search support, makes it easier for graduates to find work in their chosen field.
Common employment opportunities include roles as commercial divers, underwater welders, and hazardous environment technicians. Graduates may find themselves working on oil platforms, ship harbors, nuclear plants, and other critical infrastructure that requires skilled underwater work.
Additional Commercial Courses
For students looking to expand their skills further, the Professional Diver Training Center offers several specialized courses, including:
- Occupational Nitrox Diver: Teaches divers to use nitrox safely, reducing the risks of decompression sickness at greater depths.
- Kirby Morgan Hat Technician: A course focused on maintaining and overhauling Kirby Morgan diving helmets.
- Dive Medical Technician: Trains individuals in assessing and managing medical emergencies specific to the diving environment.
- Hyperbaric Chamber Operator: Covers the operation of hyperbaric chambers used for treating diving-related issues and other medical conditions.
These courses allow graduates to broaden their expertise and qualify for more advanced positions within the industry.
Why Choose This School?
The Professional Diver Training Center stands out for its comprehensive hands-on training, range of certifications, and the depth of real-world experience it offers students. Its alignment with industry standards ensures that students are prepared for the demands of commercial diving and underwater welding. Additionally, the inclusion of career placement services provides valuable support for graduates entering the job market.
While the program is well-rounded, the $19,950 tuition may be a challenge for some, though financing options are available. However, for students who are serious about starting a career in commercial diving, the Professional Diver Training Center offers an excellent pathway into the field with a robust support system and industry connections.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $19,950 |
| Program Duration | 15.5 to 16.5 weeks |
| Class Schedules | 5 days per week |
| Welding Classes Offered | Underwater welding and cutting, seamanship, rigging, industrial and offshore safety |
| Certifications | ADCI Entry Level Tender/Diver Card, Underwater Welding Course Completion Certificate (AWS D3.6M-Class C Standard), and several diving-related certifications |
| Program Focus | Underwater welding, diving physics, safety, and hands-on training |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Financial Aid Options | Available |
| Location | 5304 Big Six St. Suite A, Alvarado, TX 76009 |
| Phone | (888) 521-0543 |
| Website | https://prodivertc.com/commercial-diver-course/ |