If you’re thinking about a welding career, now is a great time to begin searching for a program close to you in Kansas. Trade professions are stable and tuition is affordable. Welding jobs and gigs can be lucrative for those who have a knack for entrepreneurship as well. Learn more about welding schools in Kansas and how to complete the required certification process with our guide.
What Does a Welder Do?
A welder works with metals to fabricate parts and fuse different pieces together. Welders have the opportunity to work in several different industries including the automotive, shipbuilding, aerospace, and construction industries. Welders in Kansas may be employed in places such as AGCO, which is a company that specializes in manufacturing agricultural equipment used around the world.
This is a skilled occupation in which you need training and potentially a license, depending on where you live, to work in the field. A welder may work indoors, outdoors, or a combination of both. Your hours will depend upon the specific job, employer, and industry you choose.
Welding Schools Near Me in Kansas
Welding schools train those who wish to pursue welding as a career. Though it’s possible to learn how to work with metal as a hobby, if you wish to find employment, you will likely need to show proof of your training and certification from the American Welding Society.
These programs are typically held at community or four-year colleges, while they may occasionally be found in high schools. Some certification programs in Kansas only require a 10th-grade education rather than a high school diploma. Consider the following three welding schools in Kansas to begin your career.
Barton Community College
- Location: Bend, KS
- Phone number: 785-263-1302
- Programs available: Certificate (16-course hours)
- Program duration: Two semesters
- Average cost: $1,888 for in-state tuition with $1,200 in additional course fees
NCK Tech
- Location: Beloit, KS or Hays, KS
- Phone number: 785-625-2437
- Programs available: Associate’s degree
- Program duration: Two years
- Average cost: $8,731 with an additional $1,669 in tools and course supplies
Salina Area Technical College
- Location: Salina, KS
- Phone number: 785-309-3102
- Programs available: Associate’s degree or technical certificate
- Program duration: Two years for the AA and 9 months for the certificate
- Average cost: $8,245
Welding Career Opportunities in Kansas
Because Kansas is home to a lot of the nation’s farmland, welders can often find reliable work in the agricultural industries as well as in construction. Carefully consider the information below when researching this potential career and applying to jobs after obtaining your certificate.
How Much Do Welders Make in Kansas?
On average, a welder would make a salary of around $18.98 per hour or $40,421 a year according to data from Indeed.com. This is on par with the United State average. Kansas welders can look forward to raises later in their careers as they gain more experience. Entry-level jobs will not pay as much as highly-specialized jobs.
Major Employers of Welders in Kansas
Kansas may have more opportunities in the agricultural industry than other states due to its proximity to farmland. Investigate the companies below for welding opportunities at any career level:
- AGCO: This major manufacturer and developer of agricultural equipment has a high demand for those who can make and fix this type of equipment. They often require two years of experience as well as test requirements in compliance with the AWS.
- Young’s Welding: As a fabricator of steel products, Young’s takes you right to the source of high-quality manufacturing.
- Reinke: This worldwide manufacturing company has a branch located in Kansas that produces agricultural irrigation equipment.
How To Become a Certified Welder in Kansas
Becoming a certified welder in Kansas is probably not as complicated as you think: You do not need a specialized license or four-year degree, but you must have a current certification from the American Welding Society to look for jobs. Many certificates and associate’s degree programs build this certification into their programs — just ask the schools you are considering applying to about this process and they will be happy to give you more information specific to your goals.
Do You Need a License To Be a Welder in Kansas?
No, Kansas does not require a license. If you wish to become additionally certified in plumbing, electrical work, or another specialized trade alongside your welding courses, you should speak to your school or training program about how to best manage the requirements for both at the same time.
Kansas Welding FAQs
1. How Long Does It Take to Become a Welder?
If you’re getting an associate’s degree, you will be in school for about two years. This time may include an apprenticeship and certification. Certificate programs in this state will run for a shorter amount of time — around 9 months.
2. Does a Welder Need Insurance in Kansas?
It’s not a requirement, but certain employers may desire it if you work for yourself. It’s always a good idea to have liability insurance to protect yourself and your career in case anything happens on the job.
You can easily request a free commercial insurance quote from our partners using the tool below.
3. Who Can I Contact if I Have Questions?
Be sure to get in touch with the American Welding Society with any questions about certification or licensing. Your school or certification program is more than capable of answering training-related questions, and, as always, General Contractor License Guide has relevant, up-to-date facts about your future career!
Whether you ultimately choose welding as a career or not, it’s a good idea to collect information so that you can choose what best fits your lifestyle and career goals. Look through our welding information and other career options in General Contractor License Guide to narrow down your choices between careers, schools, programs, and licensing requirements to feel fully confident in your choice!
For More License and Career Guides
To find out how to become a Welder in another state, start here.
For information on other trades in Kansas, click on a link below to learn more about the licensing requirements:
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