Best Welding Schools In Oakville, Missouri 2025

By BestWeldingSchool Editorial Team
Published January 15, 2025
5 min readUpdated February 28, 2025

Exploring Welding Schools In Oakville, Missouri

Welding is a skilled trade integral to various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and automotive. In Oakville, Missouri, students have the opportunity to learn this craft in a supportive environment, surrounded by experienced instructors and modern equipment. The region's strong industrial base provides students with the chance to gain hands-on experience and develop relationships within the local job market. Oakville’s community colleges and vocational schools offer specialized welding programs tailored to meet the needs of both novices and those looking to advance their skills. The combination of quality education, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and the region’s economic growth makes Oakville an ideal place to start a welding career.
Best Welding Schools Near Oakville, Missouri

Below are the top ranked welding schools in the surrounding areas of Oakville, Missouri

1

Southwestern Illinois College

Address: 2500 Carlyle Ave, Belleville,Illinois, St. Clair County, 62221-5899
In-State Tuition: $6,120
Out-of-State Tuition: $5,940
Full-time Enrollment: 7,955
Graduation Rate: 37%
Admission Rate: N/A
Programs Offered: 1
Available Welding Degree Programs:
Welding Technology
Welding Degrees: Certificate, Associate's
Online Welding Degrees Offered: None
2

Lewis and Clark Community College

Address: 5800 Godfrey Rd, Godfrey,Illinois, Madison County, 62035
3

Rend Lake College

Address: 468 N Ken Gray Pkwy, Ina,Illinois, Jefferson County, 62846

Common Admission Requirements For Welding SchoolsIn Oakville, Missouri

When considering welding programs in Oakville, Missouri, prospective students should be aware of the typical admission requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Generally, students must be at least 18 years old or have parental consent if underage.

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent: Most programs require a high school diploma or a GED, confirming foundational academic skills.

  • Prerequisite Coursework: Basic math and science courses are often necessary to provide a solid foundation for welding techniques and safety procedures.

  • Physical Fitness: Candidates may be required to demonstrate physical ability, as welding can involve heavy lifting and prolonged periods of standing.

  • Certification Expectations: Many programs encourage or require students to obtain foundational certifications, such as OSHA safety training, before or during their education.

  • Application Process: Prospective students usually submit an application form, transcripts, and may need to participate in an interview or assessment to gauge their interest and capability.

Cost & Financial Aid Options For Welding Schools In Oakville, Missouri

Tuition costs for welding programs in Oakville can vary based on the institution and the length of the program. Here's a general overview of what to expect:

  • Tuition Ranges:

    • Certificate programs may cost approximately $3,000 to $10,000.
    • Associate degree programs may range from $10,000 to $20,000, depending on the school and duration.

  • Additional Costs: Students should also factor in costs for supplies, safety gear, and materials, which can add a few hundred dollars to the overall expense.

  • Financial Aid Options: Students may access several financial aid resources, including:

    • Federal Grants and Loans: Completing the FAFSA can help determine eligibility for federal financial aid programs.
    • State Scholarships: Missouri offers various scholarships targeting vocational students, which can significantly reduce costs.
    • Institutional Aid: Many local colleges and vocational schools provide their own scholarships or payment plans to assist students financially.
    • Employer Sponsorships: Some students find employers willing to pay for training in exchange for labor commitments post-graduation.
Welder Salary in Missouri
Annual Median: $47,260
Hourly Median: $22.72
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
PercentileAnnual Salary
10th$36,660
25th$39,620
Median$47,260
75th$55,740
90th$68,900

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Welding Schools In Oakville, Missouri

  1. What is the duration of welding programs in Oakville?

    • Programs can range from a few months for certificate courses to two years for associate degrees.

  2. Do I need prior experience to enroll in a welding program?

    • No prior experience is typically required, but basic skills in math and physics are beneficial.

  3. What types of welding will I learn?

    • Most programs cover various welding techniques, including MIG, TIG, stick welding, and more.

  4. Are there online welding programs available?

    • While some theoretical coursework may be available online, hands-on training requires in-person attendance.

  5. How much can a welder earn in Oakville?

    • Salaries vary widely, but entry-level welders can typically earn $15 to $25 per hour, with experienced workers earning significantly more.

  6. Do welding schools provide job placement assistance?

    • Many institutions offer job placement services and keep connections with local employers.

  7. Is safety training included in welding programs?

    • Yes, safety training is a crucial part of the curriculum in most welding programs.

  8. What materials do I need for welding classes?

    • Required materials usually include safety gear (gloves, goggles), textbooks, and sometimes specialized tools provided by the school.

  9. Can I get certified after completing my program?

    • Yes, many programs prepare students for certification exams from organizations like the American Welding Society (AWS).

  10. Are evening or weekend classes available?

    • Many welding programs offer flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend classes, to accommodate working students.