Introduction to Welding

Kickstart your welding journey with our hands‑on Introduction to Welding course, a beginner‑friendly experience designed for anyone curious about the trade. This course gives new learners the chance to explore welding in a safe, structured environment while gaining a clear understanding of the major processes before choosing a direction. Over the span of either two full eight‑hour days or four half‑day sessions, students build confidence through guided instruction and practical application. This introductory course is designed to prepare students for further technical training, certifications (such as AWS Level I), or entry-level positions like fabricators or assistant welders.

THE PROCESSES: The combination of Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW/Stick), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/MIG), and Oxy-Acetylene Cutting represents some of the most widely used processes in the industry, relying on different tools such as welding wire, tungsten rods, and coated electrodes to join metal pieces. Together, these methods offer a high level of versatility, allowing welders to work effectively in a range of environments and conditions. Their adaptability makes them essential across fields like construction, shipbuilding, manufacturing, and heavy fabrication, where both indoor precision work and outdoor structural welding and cutting are required.

WHAT YOU LEARN: Throughout the class, students learn the fundamentals of welding safety, equipment operation, shop awareness, and safe operation of tools and machinery. They are introduced to Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/MIG), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW/Stick), and Oxy-Acetylene Cutting - with each process taught through hands‑on practice.

CURRICULUM: This specific course does not have any curriculum due to its short nature. Instruction is a mix of lectured classroom theory and hands-on training only. 

SCHEDULE: The course is offered on a flexible schedule designed to accommodate busy learners, with the option to complete the course in two full eight‑hour days or four half‑day sessions. This class will be scheduled for (small) groups. Classes are held Monday through Thursday, and on Saturdays. We offer morning, afternoon, and evening classes. Please call for the scheduled days for this class.

TESTING: This introductory course does not include any formal testing or certification exams, every participant will receive an official Certificate of Completion from Swaby Academy. This certificate recognizes the hours of hands‑on training you’ve completed and affirms your understanding of basic welding safety and foundational skills across MIG, TIG, Stick, and Oxy-Acetylene Cutting processes.

REQUIRED PPE: For this course, students with need required PPE's such as welding helmet, gloves, FR welding jacket, and work boots. Students for this specific class can use loaner PPE (helmet, gloves, and heavy leather jacket). You may also use your own PPE. Students may also purchase their PPE packet from Swaby Group or acquire them elsewhere. All tools and welding consumables are provided by Swaby Academy as part of the course.

PREREQUISITES: This course if for beginners and does not have any prerequisites.

PAYMENT: You can pay for your course online, or you can mail or hand-deliver a check, or pay cash at our office in Orange, Virginia - prior to starting the course. Checks are issued to the Swaby Academy per below.

Address: Swaby Academy, 385 Waugh Blvd, Orange, VA 22960

FINANCIAL AID: Students are encouraged to explore financial support options through our grants, scholarships and funding page, where we maintain an updated list of ongoing scholarships and grants dedicated specifically to welding and other skilled trades. These opportunities can help reduce tuition costs and make training more accessible for individuals beginning their journey in the trades.

INTERNATIONAL COST: Cost for International students includes all necessary PPE.