Current Program

The Welding - Gas and Electric program, which reflects the goals of the college's Mission Statement, trains craftspeople. Students enroll in Welding classes for personal enrichment, to obtain a degree or certificate, for retraining or upgrading job skills, and to meet requirements for transfer. Several factors have affected course offerings in recent years, including changes in the population (the program has seen an increase in female enrollment), economic conditions, students' basic skill levels, college budget conditions, and the increasing use of technology.

Degrees and Certificates - An Associate in Science degree and a Certificate of Completion in Welding - Gas and Electric are offered. A Construction Technology Welding - Gas and Electric Certificate of Completion also is available as part of the Evening Division.

Personnel - At present, two full-time faculty, one part-time faculty and one full-time classified staff employee comprise the department.

Teaching Methodologies - Teaching methods most used in the department at this time include lecture and lecture/demonstration, with some lecture/lab, lab, and self-paced learning.

Technology - No online courses or distance education technologies are used in the program.

Equipment - A sandblaster needs to be connected, some 20 welding machines need calibrations, and a cutting shear blade needs adjustment.

Facilities - The location of the program is excellent, and the condition of the facilities is excellent except that they could use a coat of paint.

Future Program

In the future the program will need to adapt to meet several changes that are occurring in curriculum development, technology, recruitment strategies and student academic preparation, particularly in English and math basic skill areas. It is expected that enrollment in the program in the mid term (five years) and the long term (ten years) will increase at the same rate as overall college enrollment due to the fact that sheet metal workers must now possess light gauge certification and because this program is core for a variety of other college programs. See Program Projections.

Degrees and Certificates - No additional certificates or degrees are planned.

Personnel - See Projected Faculty and Staff Needs.

Teaching Methodologies - In future, teaching methods will incorporate modern technology.

Technology - Alternative delivery systems, such as video or other distance learning may well become part of course offerings, but will not replace hands-on instruction with welding equipment.

Equipment - Within five years, new welding machines will need to be purchased to keep pace with the marketplace and the workplace. A computer and a copier are needed for the office.

Facilities - No additional facilities have been identified as needed at this time.

Staff Development - Preparation for online and alternative methods of instruction would be welcome Staff Development activities, as would training in technology and new equipment.

Special Recommendation

The department should explore new methods of instruction and alternative delivery systems to provide more opportunities for students to access the program and to respond to business and industry needs.