SAVANNAH — Savannah Technical College’s Welding Department recently was designated a level 1 and level 2 Schools Excelling through National Skill Standards Education school by the American Welding Society.
SENSE establishes standards and guidelines for welder training.
“We worked tirelessly with AWS through both our student chapter and our instruction curriculum to become recognized nationally for SENSE accreditation,” said William Burns, department head for STC welding and joining technology. “My staff has met and exceeded the rigorous guidelines set forth by AWS for more than two years to achieve SENSE School Status.”
SENSE training has three levels: entry welder (I), advanced welder (II) and expert welder (III). Upon successful completion of each level of the standards and guidelines, students may test to receive a certificate of completion. Level II is designed for two-year career and technical education programs or for those with welding experience. Level III is for those in four-year programs or those with advanced experience.
Savannah Tech offers a diploma in welding and joining along with technical certificates of credit in a variety of techniques for welding. Welding and joining technology is offered at the Savannah campus and at a new welding lab near the Effingham campus in Rincon.
“It’s important for our students to understand and uphold industry regulations once they enter the workforce, which is why our student chapter has been so active throughout the region,” Burns said. “We are proud of our students for engaging local industry partners through information sessions, student interaction and internship opportunities.”
AWS publishes the major technical standards used in welding of all types and certifies welding professionals such as inspectors, supervisors and educators.
In addition, AWS publishes technical magazines in three languages and operates trade shows in the U.S., Mexico and Canada. The organization serves nearly 70,000 members worldwide.
The Georgia Department of Labor notes welding and joining careers will increase by 15 percent or more over the next decade.