10-week AWS-aligned entry certification in MIG and stick welding.
Curriculum
Shop safety, PPE, and OSHA basics (1 week)
Blueprint reading and measurement (1 week)
SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc / stick) welding (3 weeks)
GMAW (MIG) welding — flat and horizontal positions (3 weeks)
Practical exam & AWS D1.1 certification (2 weeks)
Cohort Schedule (2024)
Spring cohort: March 4 — May 10
Summer cohort: July 8 — September 13
Fall cohort: October 21 — December 27
Class size: 10 students maximum (booth capacity)
Prerequisites
Age 18+
Physical ability to lift 50 lb repeatedly and stand for 8 hours
Uncorrected or corrected vision to 20/40
No open workers' comp claims for welding-related injuries
Job Placement Partners
Alignment with Snohomish Metal Fab, Everett Marine Repair, and Local 66
Sheet Metal Workers. Post-certification placement runs 60–80% with average
starting wages of $24–$28/hr for shop welders, higher for structural or
marine-code work.
Program Staff
Shop manager and lead instructor: Miguel Ortiz — AWS-certified
welding inspector, credential #WI-847293. 15 years teaching experience at
Puget Sound Trade Institute before joining PCS. Direct line: (425) 555-8404 Safety officer and range coordinator: Priscilla Marchetti,
OSHA General Industry outreach trainer.