As the requirements for heating and air conditioning become more sophisticated metal fabrication specialists are in demand. Sheet metal workers and welders plan to carry out the operations needed to make metal products as well as installations in buildings and the construction trades. This program stresses shop safety while teaching a wide range of sheet metal applications. Students learn how to read blueprints with welding symbols, to lay out a job and to install duct work for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. They gain experience in measuring and fitting, cutting, bending, punching, brazing, and oxyacetylene and inert gas welding.
Students have an excellent learning environment for gaining the skills to become a certified welder.
Students enjoy the challenge of on-site installation of heating and air conditioning duct work in community service projects. This gives them hands-on experience with plasma cutters, mig and tig electric welders, powerbrake with computer back gauge, and power shears. Graduates are able to find employment as welders, metal pattern makers, structural steel workers, equipment fabricators, and in air conditioning and heating duct construction. There are job opportunities in the construction trades, aircraft and marine construction, climate control industry, and heavy equipment manufacturing. One is able to start a business in this field with a very limited amount of capital.