Best Welding Schools In Rockford, Iowa 2025

Below you'll find the top ranked accredited welding schools in Rockford, Iowa, including school details, costs, and programs offered.

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

Exploring Welding Schools In Rockford, Iowa

Iowa holds a respectable position in the welding industry, emphasizing skilled craftsmanship and high-quality training. The state is home to several institutions offering comprehensive welding programs. Reputable schools include Des Moines Area Community College and Iowa Central Community College. These institutions provide rigorous training in various welding techniques, ensuring that students gain the hands-on experience necessary to excel.

In addition to community colleges, specialized training centers like the Midwest Industrial Trade School offer programs focused solely on welding. These facilities boast modern equipment and experienced instructors, providing an environment conducive to learning current industry practices. Programs cover a wide range of welding methods, including MIG, TIG, and stick welding, preparing students for diverse roles in the field.

Iowa does not mandate specific licensing for welders, but companies often prefer candidates certified by the American Welding Society (AWS). Many educational programs incorporate AWS certification into their curriculum, enhancing the employability of graduates. This approach aligns with industry needs and expectations, as AWS-certified individuals tend to have a competitive edge.

The job market for welders in Iowa remains stable, supported by the state’s robust manufacturing sector. Major employers such as John Deere and Vermeer Corporation provide ample employment opportunities. Moreover, Iowa's central location offers logistical advantages, contributing to a steady demand for skilled welders in agricultural machinery, construction, and manufacturing industries.

Industry hubs around cities like Cedar Rapids and Dubuque are notable for their concentration of manufacturing plants. These areas are particularly attractive for welders seeking long-term career growth. Iowa also benefits from a collaborative effort between industries and educational institutions, ensuring that training programs align closely with local workforce needs.

Pursuing a welding career in Iowa offers state-specific advantages. Lower living costs coupled with competitive wages make the state an appealing option for aspiring welders. The community-oriented culture of Iowa promotes a supportive educational environment, enhancing learning and professional development. This combination of quality training and employment opportunities creates a favorable setting for those entering the welding profession in Iowa.

Best Welding Schools Near Rockford, Iowa

Below are the top ranked welding schools in the surrounding areas of Rockford, Iowa

1

North Iowa Area Community College - Ranked #1 Welding School Near Rockford, Iowa

Address: 500 College Dr, Mason City, Iowa, Cerro Gordo County, 50401
2

Iowa Central Community College - Ranked #2 Welding School Near Rockford, Iowa

Address: One Triton Circle, Fort Dodge, Iowa, Webster County, 50501
3

Marshalltown Community College - Ranked #3 Welding School Near Rockford, Iowa

Address: 3700 S Center St, Marshalltown, Iowa, Marshall County, 50158
4

Hawkeye Community College - Ranked #4 Welding School Near Rockford, Iowa

Address: 1501 E Orange Rd, Waterloo, Iowa, Black Hawk County, 50701
5

Riverland Community College - Ranked #5 Welding School Near Rockford, Iowa

Address: 1900 8th Ave NW, Austin, Minnesota, Mower County, 55912-1473
6

Northeast Iowa Community College - Ranked #6 Welding School Near Rockford, Iowa

Address: 1625 Hwy 150, Calmar, Iowa, Winneshiek County, 52132-0400
7

Rochester Community and Technical College - Ranked #7 Welding School Near Rockford, Iowa

Address: 851 30th Ave SE, Rochester, Minnesota, Olmsted County, 55904-4999
8

South Central College - Ranked #8 Welding School Near Rockford, Iowa

Address: 1920 Lee Blvd, North Mankato, Minnesota, Nicollet County, 56003-1920
9

Minnesota State College Southeast - Ranked #9 Welding School Near Rockford, Iowa

Address: 1250 Homer Rd, Winona, Minnesota, Winona County, 55987
10

Iowa Lakes Community College - Ranked #10 Welding School Near Rockford, Iowa

Address: 19 S 7th St, Estherville, Iowa, Emmet County, 51334-2295
Welder Salary in Iowa
Annual Median: $23.33
Hourly Median: $48,520
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
PercentileAnnual Salary
10th$18.76
25th$21.08
Median$23.33
75th$27
90th$28.84