How To Become a Welder In Oklahoma 2025

Comprehensive guide on how to become a welder in Oklahoma, including education requirements, licensing, certification, and career outlook.

By BestWeldingSchool Editorial Team
Published January 15, 2025
3 min read
Updated January 17, 2025

Step By Step Guide To Become A Welder In Oklahoma 2025

Oklahoma offers a promising path for aspiring welders with a demand for skilled professionals in various industries. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step approach to becoming a welder in Oklahoma in 2025.

Step 1: Meet Basic Requirements

Before you begin your training, ensure you meet the basic requirements:

  • Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
  • Education: Have a high school diploma or GED equivalent.

These requirements serve as the foundational eligibility to pursue a career in welding.

Step 2: Research Welding Schools and Programs

Consider enrolling in a welding program at a vocational school or community college. Some popular options in Oklahoma include:

  • Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology: Offers varied welding programs. Check their website for specific dates and tuition fees.
  • Tulsa Welding School: Offers flexible programs catering to different welding needs. Details are available on their homepage.

Step 3: Choose the Right Welding Program

Select a welding program that aligns with your career goals:

  • Certificate Programs: Typically last from a few months up to a year.
  • Associate Degree: Usually takes about two years to complete.

Verify that the program is accredited and offers hands-on training.

Step 4: Enroll in a Welding Program

Once you've chosen a program:

  • Apply: Submit required documents and meet application deadlines.
  • Pay Fees: Oklahoma welding programs range from $5,000 to $18,000 depending on the duration and certification level.

Successful enrollment sets the stage for acquiring technical skills.

Step 5: Complete Welding Training

During your training, you will:

  • Learn theory and techniques: Includes blueprint reading, metallurgy, and safety protocols.
  • Gain hands-on experience: Engage in practical welding exercises covering different techniques such as MIG, TIG, and Stick welding.

Step 6: Obtain Certification

Professional certification enhances employability:

  • American Welding Society (AWS) Certification: Widely recognized and recommended in Oklahoma.
  • Testing Centers: Available at vocational schools and dedicated sites such as the AWS Oklahoma Section.

Passing the welding certification exam is often a requirement for employment.

Step 7: Apply for Welder Licensure in Oklahoma

Oklahoma does not mandate a professional license for welders, but:

  • Employers may have specific requirements.
  • Some cities or counties might impose regulations—verify with local authorities for precise details.

Step 8: Seek Employment

Explore welding opportunities across various Oklahoma industries:

  • Construction: Infrastructure projects require skilled welders.
  • Manufacturing: Companies like John Deere have a strong presence in the state.

Job search platforms, industry connections, and apprenticeships provide pathways to employment.

Step 9: Pursue Continual Education

Stay updated with industry advancements:

  • Workshops and Seminars: Offered by technical institutions and industry groups.
  • Advanced Certifications: Consider upgrading skills with additional AWS certifications.

Continuing education ensures proficiency in new technologies and practices, keeping job prospects robust.

For comprehensive state regulations, refer to Oklahoma's Department of Career and Technology Education homepage.