Indianapolis, Indiana – Welding education is an industry that often flies under the radar. While it plays an essential role in creating a skilled workforce, much of the effort that goes into building successful welding programs and training students remains behind the scenes. As an instructor, I’ve come to appreciate not only the hands-on aspects of teaching welding but also the extensive groundwork that goes into making a program both effective and sustainable. My journey from part-time gas metal arc welding instructor to program chair at Ivy Tech Community College has provided me with invaluable insights into the world of welding education.
When I first entered the realm of teaching welding, I had minimal experience in a college setting, having only taught part-time for one semester. Although I had an extensive background in the field, transitioning into academia was an unfamiliar path. Despite my hesitations, I decided to apply for a full-time faculty position at Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, and little did I know how much my professional life would change after stepping into the classroom.
I think it’s important to share not just the success stories—though there are many—but also the invisible work that goes into running a welding education program. At Ivy Tech, we serve over 190,000 students across the state, with 32,115 students attending our campus. Currently, we have 109 students enrolled in our welding program, and we run 19 sections each semester. Our program has grown considerably, but it’s not just about the number of students or the fantastic equipment; it’s about what happens in the background that makes this possible.
One of the first challenges for any new welding instructor is navigating the Learning Management System (LMS). This digital tool helps manage course materials such as syllabi, safety guidelines, quizzes, and homework assignments. Initially skeptical about the system, I soon realized that having students come to class already familiar with basic welding terms and safety hazards had huge benefits. This structure allows us to focus more on hands-on learning and less on theory. It also saves me from needing to explain the intricacies of safety—something that I could certainly do without experiencing firsthand, especially after having lost a part of a finger myself.
Another essential part of the program’s success is our statewide curriculum committee, which consists of 17 welding professionals from different campuses across Indiana. The committee meets at least twice a year to ensure the curriculum remains relevant to the current needs of the industry. While each campus has the flexibility to adapt the curriculum to meet local needs, we follow a statewide standard. This collaborative effort is invaluable in maintaining a robust welding program that prepares students for the evolving demands of the workforce.
The role of industry involvement cannot be overstated. Before each committee meeting, we hold an advisory board meeting with local industry professionals who contribute their expertise to ensure that our curriculum is aligned with the latest standards. These professionals are crucial in helping us maintain industry relevance, whether it’s through suggestions for curriculum changes or by providing valuable input for grant requests aimed at improving our labs and equipment. When employers see that their voices are heard and respected, they are more inclined to support initiatives that will benefit their future workforce.
But it’s not all about committees and meetings. A significant portion of my work involves ensuring that the program functions smoothly on a daily basis. As the program chair, I lead a small team of two full-time faculty members and two adjunct instructors. Our students are always our priority, and we work together to create engaging, structured lessons that align with clearly defined learning objectives. This team effort ensures that the program runs efficiently and that our students receive a quality education, regardless of any external challenges.
And then, of course, there’s the equipment. A well-equipped welding lab is crucial to providing students with real-world experience, but it’s also an expensive endeavor. At our school, we think of our lab as an independent shop, but what we ultimately produce is scrap. Unlike a business where the end product can be sold, we focus on engagement. The objective is not to create a final product, but rather to guide students toward specific learning outcomes through structured lessons. While staying within a tight budget can be a challenge, the community and our advisory board have been great resources in helping us acquire the materials and equipment necessary for hands-on learning.
Running a welding program is not just about equipment, lessons, and student interaction—it’s also about financial management. Welding education requires a significant investment, but it cannot be driven by financial gain. The success of the program relies on educators who are committed to providing quality training, even if it means taking on the financial burden of maintaining equipment or purchasing new supplies. The challenge of balancing financial constraints with educational goals is something that every instructor in the field faces.
Reflecting on my journey, I’m incredibly grateful for the mentors who helped shape my teaching career. From mastering the technical aspects of the job to learning the finer points of communication, I had invaluable support every step of the way. Though I earned my position through hard work and dedication, it was the guidance of experienced mentors that helped me develop the skills necessary to be successful in this field. Now, I’m proud to be in a position where I can offer that same guidance to newer instructors who are just beginning their journey in welding education.
Looking forward, I’m excited about the future of welding education and the possibilities it holds. Our program continues to grow, adapt, and meet the needs of an ever-changing industry. Through collaboration with industry professionals, attention to student needs, and a focus on real-world application, we are preparing the next generation of skilled welders to enter the workforce. As an educator, there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a student’s journey come to fruition—knowing that the lessons learned in the classroom will be carried forward into their careers.
Welding education is more than just a series of lessons and certifications. It’s about creating an environment where students can thrive, feel supported, and develop the skills they need to succeed. The behind-the-scenes work that goes into this process is what ultimately shapes the future of skilled trades and helps to build a workforce capable of tackling the challenges of tomorrow.
