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AO-K Welding Pathway

Earn a high school diploma while you complete a short-term certificate program in the metal fabrication/welding field, leading to industry-recognized credentials and improved job prospects. Become an AO-K student today!

A person wearing a welding helmet makes sparks while welding.

Launch a successful career while simultaneously receiving academic instruction, specialized support and technical certificates. You may even qualify for free tuition for pathway courses.

AO-K Teaching Approach

  • Maximizes individual attention for success
  • Uses a specialized teaching team
  • Improves basic reading, writing and math skills related to your technical career
  • Teaches both technical and professional skills 

The courses in the Welding pathway include:

  • Industrial Safety/OSHA 30
  • Blueprint and Symbols Reading for Welders
  • Metallurgy
  • Introduction to Welding
  • Workplace Skills
  • Shielded Metal Arc Welding I
  • Gas Metal Arc Welding I
  • Gas Tungsten Arc Welding I
  • Shielded Metal Arc Welding II
  • Gas Metal Arc Welding II
  • Flux-Cored Arc Welding

When all courses are completed, you will have earned a college credential with a certificate in Metal Fabrication/Welding.

Launch a New Career

The welding pathway can help build your credentials, education and earning potential.

You will be prepared for a career as a welder — a career path with a wide variety of options! Skilled welders, cutters and steel fitters are in big demand as metropolitan areas grow and aging infrastructure needs repairing and replacing across the country. More than 80 percent of manufactured goods use welding.

Commerce Department Outlook for Welding

The Kansas Department of Commerce reports wages for welders are very competitive. The median wage is $40,320 per year in Kansas.

Learn More!

To learn more about the welding AO-K program, email Holly Wimer, AO-K Coordinator, or call 913-469-8500, ext. 7687.

Do you or someone you know need a GED and have an interest in training for a career?