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Associate of Applied Science

Welding and Fabrication Technology (A.A.S.)

Gain hands-on experience in welding and fabrication while building the technical knowledge used in modern manufacturing. Graduates are prepared for technical careers or continued study in welding engineering.
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Welding and Fabrication Technology Introduction

In the Welding and Fabrication Technology program, you don't just learn how to pull a trigger; you learn the science behind why a weld holds. You will master the four essential pillars of modern fabrication:

  • Materials Science: You will study how different metals react to intense heat, how to prevent warping and distortion when building a frame, and how to select the right filler metal for the job. 
  • Welding Processes: You will gain hands-on mastery over a wide variety of processes, including MIG (GMAW), TIG (GTAW), Stick (SMAW), and Flux-Cored (FCAW) welding, adapting your technique for different positions and joint types. 
  • Codes and Standards: You will train to meet strict industry standards (such as AWS codes), learn how to inspect your own work, spot defects, and prepare yourself to pass rigorous welder qualification tests. 
  • Automation and Robotics: You will get introduced to automated systems and robotic programmers. Learn how to operate the machinery that drives high-speed production. 

Highlighted Courses

Develop in-demand expertise in welding processes, materials, and manufacturing operations while building the hands-on skills needed to succeed in welding and fabrication roles. Graduates are prepared for careers with manufacturers, fabrication shops, suppliers, and other industrial employers.
February 12, 2026 12:25 PM
ME 142
November 07, 2025 10:47 AM
ME 172
February 12, 2026 11:13 AM
BUS 200
February 12, 2026 12:30 PM
BA 211
February 06, 2026 11:18 AM
WELD 224
February 12, 2026 12:29 PM
WELD 270
November 07, 2025 10:43 AM
MET 231
February 06, 2026 11:19 AM
WELD 329
See Example Plan

Graduate Career-Ready

Graduates with an Associates degree in Welding and Fabrication Technology have a wide array of rewarding careers before them. Check out some of the top careers students get with this degree or explore more career options in I-Plan.

BYU-Idaho Graduate Salaries

Graduates from this hands-on program report competitive early-career salaries ranging from $50,000 to $70,000. This degree offers a fast-track path into high-demand manufacturing and fabrication industries where strong technical skills are highly valued.

Common Career Paths

Students are prepared for essential roles such as welding technicians, inspectors, and supervisors across various industrial sectors. The program focuses on mastering modern welding processes and industry-standard equipment to ensure graduates are ready for immediate professional success.

Preparation for Grad School

This associate degree serves as a primary steppingstone for students wishing to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Welding Engineering Technology. Continuing your education can open advanced doors to higher-level engineering, management, or specialized research positions.

AI in Academics

At BYU-Idaho, we are strategically integrating Artificial Intelligence to enhance academic excellence and prepare our students for an evolving world.

AI in Welding and Fabrication Technology
In Welding and Fabrication Technology, you'll learn how to apply AI-enabled tools to monitor weld quality in real time, analyze process data from automated systems, and support faster troubleshooting of welding defects. These technologies help you optimize parameters, predict potential failures, and improve productivity while maintaining human oversight, gospel-centered ethics, and respect for the skilled welders who execute your procedures.
Advance Knowledge, Enhancing Learning, and Developing Workforce Readiness
AI in Academics means learning to advance knowledge, enhancing learning, and developing workforce readiness through tools that support (not replace) your effort and integrity.

Related Majors

Improve production processes and systems that build products.
Gain a basic understanding of welding and the techniques used to fuse metal.

Next Steps With BYU-Idaho

Explore how to begin your academic journey at BYU-Idaho by starting your application today.
Learn how to update your academic path with simple instructions for requesting a major change.

Learn More About the Welding and Fabrication Technology Program

Request more information about the Welding and Fabrication Technology program and discover how BYU-Idaho can help you reach your goals.

Request More Information